NCEA selected the top 12 collegiate horsemanship athletes to represent their respective equestrian teams at the Ford Youth World. Competitors will face off in the Collegiate Horsemanship Championship prelims on Monday, August 5, immediately following the Level 2 horsemanship finals, in the Performance Arena. The top four exhibitors will then go head to head in the Collegiate Horsemanship Championship finals on Tuesday, August 6, following the Level 3 14-18 trail in the Jim Norick Arena.
The student athletes selected for this year’s championship include:
- Sarah Orsak, Texas A&M University
- Lauren Diaz, Auburn University
- Taylor Searles, Auburn University
- Alex Albright, Texas A&M University
- Kelsey Jung, Auburn University
- Harley Huff, Oklahoma State University
- Deanna Green, Auburn University
- Ashley Davidson, Texas A&M University
- Nicole Campbell. Fresno State University
- Cydney Benes, Texas Christian University
- Brooklyn Moch, Fresno State University
- Emma Verplank, Oklahoma State University
This event would not be possible without the support of AQHA Professional Horsemen and American Quarter Horse owners. The American Quarter Horses used for these riders to compete on during the championship event are graciously donated by owners, trainers and Ford Youth World exhibitors.
About NCEA
Formed in 1998, NCEA governs the sport of collegiate equestrian and allows athletes to receive their education in addition to retaining their connection to equestrian sports. Check out more information on the NCEA Program.
About the Ford Youth World
The Ford Youth World is the world’s largest, single-breed world championship horse show open exclusively to youth exhibitors age 18 and under. This is the pinnacle event for youth competitors around the world who must qualify for the event by earning a predetermined number of points to secure a spot in each of the classes representing English, western and halter disciplines, or earn an invitation through their state or provincial affiliate.
