The Young Rider teams took their turn down the centerline on Thursday 31 July 2025 in the 2025 North American Youth Championships at the Flintridge Horse Park in Traverse City, MI, USA.
With talented combinations from across the continent representing their home regions, Region 4 emerged victorious in the Team competition earning the gold medal with a combined score of 205.559. Region 3 secured the silver medal with a combined score of 199.795, while Region 6 claimed bronze on a score of 195.646.
The Young Riders Team Championship was downgraded from an FEI North American Championship to USEF level as there was no Canadian team present to speak of a “North American” team battle. Canada only fielded two individuals, Mexico sent no riders at all.
Region 4 is Golden
The Region 4 team delivered a confident and cohesive set of rides. Region 4 encompasses the American states of Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North and South Dakota (not automatically known as "dressage" country). Angela Jackson served as chef d'equipe.
the way in the lap of honour
“This is my fourth year competing at NAYC, but my first year as a Young Rider, and I just love this competition so much,” said Kment. “Being able to be on a world stage with my incredible team is so special, and I’m just so thankful for every moment. To have this relationship with my horse, and with my mom, since she owns him, makes this experience even more meaningful. It’s the three of us together in this, and that’s so special.”
Averi Allen (Pleasant Hill, Mo.) and Silhouette, a 2014 Oldenburg mare (by Sir Gregory x Chico's Boy) owned by Jonni Allen, earned a score of 68.618% to contribute to the team’s golden finish. The pair impressed with their lovely moments of collection throughout the test, showcasing the strength of their longtime partnership.
“I’ve had [Silhouette] for five years and have trained her up the levels myself,” said Allen. “She’s honestly the best mare I’ve ever ridden. I love her so much, and I’m extremely proud of her.”
“It’s super special to be here at the 2025 North American Youth Championships. This is my last year as a Young Rider, so I’m just soaking up all the memories with my teammates and winning team gold is the icing on the cake,” said Fruchterman.
Region 3 and Region 6 on the Podium
The silver medal went to the team of three riders from Region 3, which was captained by Katharine McQueen. Region 3 covers Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee.
The team high score was ridden by Virginia Woodcock on the the 11-year old Danish warmblood Mollegardens Sans-Souci (by Sir Donnerhall x Sam Sam). She finished third with 68.265% although the judges (Minor, Warren, Lacerda, Umbach, Hotz) were highly divided on the ride. The low score was 64.853%, the high score 69.559%, placing between 1st and 14th place. Phoebe Keliher and the 13-year old Swedish warmblood Cheraton (by Chirlon x Martini) placed ninth with a personal best of 66.265%, while Allison Berger and and the 10-year old Oldenburg bred Summersby (by Sezuan x Sandro Hit) finished 10th with 65.265%.
The team's best performance came from Ella Inska on the 15-year old KWPN bred Falcon (by UB40 x Flemmingh), who landed 8th place with 66.529%. Its two other riders scored in the 64% range: Olivia Martz and the 17-year old Brandenburg bred mare Rihanna Ymas (by Relius x Akzento) got 64.882 (12th) and Trinity Schatzel on the 13-year old Lusitano Hercules (by Zeus Vigar x Violino SS) got 64.235% (15th).
Young Rider athletes will return to the dressage arena on Saturday, August 2, for the Individual Test
Related Links
Scores: 2025 North American Youth Championships
Region 3 Wins Team Gold at 2025 North American Junior Riders Championships