USHJA 2’6” Junior/Amateur Hunter Derby to Debut in 2026

Lexington, Ky.—May 29, 2025—The U.S. Hunter Jumper Association is pleased to announce the new USHJA 2’6” Junior/Amateur Hunter Derby, set to debut in the 2026 competition year. Modeled after the prestigious USHJA National and International Hunter Derbies, this new offering aims to support the growth and development of Junior and Amateur riders competing at the 2’6” fence height.

Open to Junior and Amateur riders, the USHJA 2’6” Junior/Amateur Hunter Derby is accessible to any horse or pony registered with USHJA. The class follows a traditional two-round format, beginning with a Classic Hunter Round. The top 12 horse-and-rider combinations from the first round will return for the Handy Hunter Round, where judges will reward brilliance of pace and handiness. High-option fences will be included in both rounds, giving riders the opportunity to earn bonus points.

Competition dates and host venues for 2026 will be released on the USHJA website as they become available.

To learn more about the USHJA 2’6” Junior/Amateur Hunter Derby, including the specifications, visit ushja.org/JrAmDerby.