Young Rider Scholarship

Presented by RCHJA in honor of Lindsey Jones

This scholarship is proudly awarded in honor of Lindsey Jones, owner and founder of Jumps by Lindsey. Through her beautifully crafted jumps, unwavering support, and continued encouragement, Lindsey has played an instrumental role in helping RCHJA grow from a grassroots idea into a thriving equestrian community. Her commitment to making the sport more accessible and enjoyable for riders of all levels embodies the very spirit of this scholarship.

Investing in the Future of Our Sport

The RCHJA Young Rider Scholarship was created to support and encourage the next generation of equestrians by providing financial assistance to deserving young riders who demonstrate dedication, sportsmanship, and a genuine passion for the hunter/jumper discipline.

At RCHJA, we believe that talent, determination, and horsemanship should never be limited by financial circumstances. Many of the sport's most promising riders spend countless hours caring for horses, working around the barn, helping others, and pursuing their goals despite significant financial challenges. This scholarship is intended to recognize those individuals and help them continue their equestrian journey.

2026 Writing Prompt:

(500–750 words recommended)

Describe a challenge you faced in your riding journey that could not be solved with talent alone. Explain how the experience changed your approach to riding, horsemanship, leadership, or personal responsibility. Discuss what you learned from the challenge, how those lessons influence your goals today, and how receiving this scholarship would help you continue making a positive impact within the equestrian community.

In your response, consider:

A specific horse, competition, setback, injury, financial obstacle, or personal challenge.
What actions you took to overcome the situation.
How the experience affected your character both inside and outside the show ring.
Ways you demonstrate sportsmanship, work ethic, and stewardship of horses.
Your long-term goals in equestrian sport and how you plan to give back to the community.

Ready to Apply?

If you are a dedicated young rider with a passion for horsemanship, a commitment to sportsmanship, and the determination to pursue your goals despite financial challenges, we encourage you to apply.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: NOVEMBER 16, 2026

Submit your Application

Application and Selection

Applicants must:

Be 21 years of age or younger
A current member of RCHJA in good standing
Be nominated by a trainer or equine professional
Submit a completed application inclusive of your essay and letter of recommendation

Applications are reviewed by the scholarship committee and are evaluated based on the rider's character, horsemanship, sportsmanship, financial need, community involvement, future goals, and trainer recommendation. Competitive success alone is not the determining factor; rather, the scholarship seeks to recognize riders whose actions reflect the values and spirit of the equestrian community.

Scholarship Purpose

The RCHJA Young Rider Scholarship seeks to recognize riders who exemplify:

Strong horsemanship and dedication to horse welfare
Positive sportsmanship both in and out of the show ring
Commitment to personal growth and learning
Service to their barn, peers, and equestrian community
Perseverance in the face of financial or personal challenges
A passion for the hunter/jumper sport and its future

Scholarship Benefits

The recipients of the RCHJA Young Rider Scholarship will receive:

Complimentary 2027 RCHJA Membership
Waived Show Fees for the 2027 Season
Up to Eight (8) Regular Classes Waived at each 2027 RCHJA Show
Two (2) Complimentary Tickets to the 2027 RCHJA Annual Awards Banquet