The U.S. Equestrian Federation has announced the USEF/USEA Developing Horse National Championship will continue to take place at Morven Park in Leesburg, Virginia, through 2027. The championship features two divisions: a division for 6-year-old horses competing at the CCI2*-S level, and another for 7-year-old horses competing at the CCI3*-S level. 

The championship aims to identify horses with the ability to eventually contribute to the USEF Eventing Elite Program and achieve podium scores within three quadrennials. The goal is to encourage continued development and education of young horses in the U.S. while adding incentive for athletes bringing developing horses along through the levels to gain more career experience.

Rob Burk, CEO of the U.S. Eventing Association, based out of Morven Park, is excited to have the national championships next door. 

“The USEA is proud to once again see Morven Park play host to the USEF/USEA Developing Horse Championships for the next several years,” he said. “Our headquarters are located across the street from the park, and the history of our organization has direct ties to Morven. We know that the facility will be a fantastic location for the championships and we look forward to greeting a new generation of champions.” 

Stacey Metcalfe, Morven Park’s CEO and executive director, shared in Burk’s excitement about hosting the championships again.

“Morven Park is thrilled to continue hosting the USEF/USEA Developing Horse Eventing National Championships for the 2025-2027 seasons,” Metcalfe said. “We look forward to creating an environment that fosters and challenges the next generation of U.S. eventing talent. As we look ahead to 2025 in partnership with USEF, we will be establishing a complete championship experience for all FEI levels at the Morven Park International and Fall Horse Trials and the U.S. Equestrian Open Eventing Final.

For more information about the 2025 USEF/USEA Developing Horse National Championship, contact Christina Vaughn, Director of Eventing Development Programs, at cvaughn@usef.org.