The Florida Youth Dressage Championships (FYDC), one of the largest competitions for youth riders in Florida, will return for its third year at World Equestrian Center – Ocala. These championships, held March 6-9, 2025, promise to continue its tradition of welcoming camaraderie, sportsmanship and education for young dressage riders.
Since its creation in 2013 by Lendon Gray and Hampton Green Farm, the FYDC has played a key role in shaping the careers of promising young equestrians. Over the years, international riders such as Felicitas Hendricks, Christian Simonson, Codi Harrison, Juan Matute, Naima Moreira and Maria Alejandra Aponte have represented their nations in world-class events including the European Championships, Pan American Games. Notably, 2019 FYDC champion Camille Carier Bergeron competed for Canada in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.
A packed program with activities
This year’s competition will feature four national divisions: Pony, Junior, Young Rider, and Under 25 Grand Prix. Riders will compete in three tests: a team test and an individual test, each counting for 40% of their total score, and a freestyle test accounting for 20%. Along with winners in each division, an overall champion with the highest scores across all divisions will be crowned during the awards ceremony on Sunday, March 9.
The event also features a very interesting schedule of educational activities for riders and their families, including:
Wednesday, March 5: American Equestrians Got Talent Live Auditions—(Venue TBA)
Thursday, March 6: Bowling Party – (6pm, Venue TBA)
Friday, March 7—Grand Prix Freestyles—(WEC, Indoor Arena 6)
Sunday, March 9: Awards Ceremony and Press Conference at World Equestrian Center
The championships feature extensive content coverage, including pictures/videos capturing the essence of the competition and its participants. Interviews with riders will provide insight into their personal experiences, showcasing why being part of the FYDC is so special.
F: Fun
Y: Youth
D: Dedication
C: Championships
These words reflect the essence of Florida Youth Dressage Championships, which has become a big platform of the promotion of the youth in US Dressage.
Mark your calendars and don’t miss out on the fun – make your entries and be part of this unforgettable event!