Taylor, Harris Insurance Services Expands MZ Farms/USHJA Emerging Athletes Program Support with Regional and National Awards

Lexington, Ky.—Feb. 27, 2026—The U.S. Hunter Jumper Association is pleased to announce Taylor, Harris Insurance Services will continue its partnership as a Supporting Sponsor of the MZ Farms/USHJA Emerging Athletes Program in 2026.

As part of its renewed support, Taylor, Harris will once again provide a $500 Dedication, Determination, and Discipline Award at each 2026 Regional Training Session. These awards recognize athletes who exemplify the core values of the Emerging Athletes Program both in and out of the saddle.

In addition, three new awards will be honored at the Emerging Athletes Program National Training Session, courtesy of Taylor, Harris. The Outstanding Horse Award will recognize a horse that demonstrates exceptional performance throughout the session, while the Leading Stable Manager Award will honor the stable manager who upholds the highest standards of horse care and stable management. Finally, a $500 cash prize will be award to the Overall Reserve Champion of the National Training Session.

“The Emerging Athletes Program is designed to prepare riders for long-term success both in competition and as horsemen and women,” said USHJA Executive Director Whitney Allen. "We are grateful for Taylor, Harris Insurance Services’ continued partnership and their expanded support in 2026, which allows us to recognize top riders, outstanding horses, and the stable managers who support them.”

Since 2009, the Emerging Athletes Program has been providing opportunities for riders to advance their horsemanship education and riding skills. The program's alumni have gone on to compete in top events and earn numerous championships in the Hunter, Jumper, and Equitation show rings, including the Platinum Performance/USEF Show Jumping Talent Search Finals, ASPCA Maclay Finals, USEF Prix des States, and representing the U.S. Jumping Team in FEI Jumping Nations Cup competition.

Riders and non-riders accepted into the Emerging Athletes Program begin with a five-day Regional Training Session, where they work with top riding clinicians and some of the country’s leading stable managers. Following the Regional Training Sessions, 16 riders and a select number of stable managers are invited to attend the National Training Session based on the skills and potential demonstrated during their regional experience. At the conclusion of the National Training Session, one rider is named the overall Emerging Athletes Program National Training Session Champion and awarded a $3,000 training grant for advanced instruction.

"The Emerging Athlete Program offers the future of our sport the opportunity to learn from the very best. At Taylor, Harris Insurance Services, supporting the education and development of the next generation is a core belief. Celebrating athletes who go the extra mile and commit themselves to continuous learning helps ensure a bright future for our industry. We are proud to expand our sponsorship by introducing an Outstanding Horse Award and a Leading Stable Manager Award, recognizing those who demonstrate excellence, dedication, and horsemanship both in and out of the ring. It is truly our honor to support and celebrate the individuals who are shaping the future of our sport," said Taylor, Harris President and Founder, Michael Taylor.

Applications are currently open and close April 1. To learn more about the MZ Farms/USHJA Emerging Athletes Program, visit ushja.org/EAP.  

About Taylor, Harris Insurance Solutions

Taylor, Harris Insurance Services was founded in 1987 to provide specialized insurance for all types of equine risk. Taylor, Harris works with their clients to ensure they are equipped with the insurance coverage that's right for each individual case. THIS places all policies with the highest rated and most secure insurance carriers, which are also selected for their prompt and reliable claims settlement. Taylor, Harris is dedicated to providing insurance protection for all personal and professional equestrian related risk. The THIS team of lifelong equestrians is always available to answer questions as their goal is to deliver peace of mind for their clients. For further details visit taylorharris.com or call 1.800.291.4774.