On April 18, the U.S. Hunter Jumper Association announced the addition of the USHJA Gladstone Cup Equitation Classic for Amateurs to its equitation offerings.

As the USHJA’s second adult equitation program, the USHJA Gladstone Cup Equitation Classic for Amateurs emulates the format of the version open to juniors, which is held in conjunction with the USEF Junior Hunter National Championships. The three-round class combines the precision of equitation and handiness of hunters over a course set at 3’. In the first round, riders compete over a classic hunter style round, the second is set over a handy course, and in the third round the top four to six riders will swap horses for further testing.

The classic is open to any active USHJA amateur member that has placed first, second or third in adult equitation classes in the age group equitation at 2’9” or higher, 3’3” Adult Jumping Seat Medal class, Taylor Harris Insurance Adult Medal class, and Ariat National Adult Medal class. Qualifying classes begin June 1, 2022, with the inaugural Classic held in 2023. Dates and locations for the 2023 competition will be announced later this year.

For more information and program specifications for the USHJA Gladstone Cup Equitation Classic for Amateurs and the USHJA Gladstone Cup Equitation Classic, presented by Intermont Equestrian at Emory & Henry College, visit ushja.org/Gladstone.