To promote camaraderie among Area IV youth and to give junior/young riders the opportunity to represent Area IV in a team atmosphere. The Hagyard Midsouth Team Challenge can be used as a stepping stone for future YTC competitors, and also as a competitive goal for individuals whose goals do not include competing at the upper levels of the sport.

Too numerous to list! Fun, friendship, competition at a top-notch venue, team dinner and awesome team gear!

Riders who represent Area IV Young Riders at Midsouth will receive Area IV Young Rider apparel and saddle pads.

Grooms will receive Area IV Young Rider apparel.

Team Dinner Saturday night. Hospitality stall throughout the event.

A selection committee will choose team members to represent Area IV at each level of competition (Groom, BN, Novice, Training, Preliminary) and individuals at the Intermediate, T3D, P3D and FEI levels. Team and individuals will be chosen based upon the following criteria:

1. Application, Rider Bio and competition photo submitted by July 1st, 2024. Applicationis submitted online via Google Forms. Rider Bio & Photo are to be submitted via email to: youngriders@useaiv.org.

2. USEA member. USEA Area IV Young Rider member. Horse USEA registered

3. Performance history; Pairs with the most successful and consistent competition results. Not applicable for Grooms.

4. Each rider is required to fundraise a minimum of $300 for the Area IV Young Rider program Funds must be provided to USEA Area IV no later than August 15th, 2024. Grooms must earn a minimum of $200 for the Young Rider Program by August 15th, 2024. Additional optional fundraising tiers will be announced that will enable riders to earn additional gear; for example, backpacks, coolers, etc.

5. Individuals will NOT be selected to represent Area IV if fundraising requirements have not been met and received in full by August 15th, 2024.

6. The Area IV Young Rider Midsouth Selection Committee will organize teams. Riders may be asked to compete at a lower level if needed to fill a team or if their competition history indicates that a drop in level may be beneficial. No more than 2 teams per level will be entered.

Each rider is required to fundraise a minimum of $300 for the Area IV Young Rider program Funds must be provided to USEA Area IV no later than August 15th, 2024. Grooms must earn a minimum of $200 for the Young Rider Program by August 15th, 2024.

Riders are responsible for their entry, travel and stabling expenses. Grooms are responsible for their own travel expenses.

Please be aware that Hagyard Midsouth Team Challenge traditionally fills on opening date. We cannot guarantee that the Area IV YR Teams will be accepted. Fundraising is not refundable, however you will receive your Area IV gear even if your entry does not get accepted.

July 1st, 2024: Application Deadline to represent Area IV at Hagyard Midsouth Team Challenge

August 1st, 2024 Teams Announced.

August 15th, 2024 Fundraising deadline. All funds must be received by August 15th or team spot is forfeited.

September 3rd, 2024 Opening Date for Hagyard Midsouth Team Challenge: You must enter online on Opening date. Details provided.

October 1st, 2024 Closing Date for Hagyard Midsouth.

October 16th -20th, 2024 Hagyard Midsouth Team Challenge: Kentucky Horse Park Lexington, KY

October 18th, 2024: Area IV YR Team Photo

October 19th, 2024: Area IV YR Hagyard Midsouth Team Dinner

Hagyard Midsouth Three-Day Event will be held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY October 16th-20th, 2024. All information regarding accommodations, entry fees, stabling, and competition dates is available on the official USEA Hagyard Midsouth Omnibus page for the event.