TRAVERSE CITY — Traverse City Horse Shows has introduced two new equitation championships into its competition lineup.
The Tournament of Champions series, taking place September 10–14, 2025 includes the $50,000 Cherry Capital 3′3″ Equitation Championship and the $100,000 Dudley and Barb Smith 3′6″ Equitation Championship and will provide junior riders exciting opportunities to showcase their skills and earn significant rewards.
“We take pride in offering innovative opportunities to athletes at all levels across all disciplines,” Event Director at Traverse City Horse Shows Matt Morrissey said. “We’ve already multiplied derby and prize money opportunities for hunters along with unmatched summer offerings for international jumpers. It was time for us to welcome equitation riders to share in the spotlight.”
Qualifying for both championships will occur at participating events throughout the 2025 competition season. Each championship will feature the top 50 qualified riders and consist of two rounds, each judged by one panel of two judges. Venues interested in hosting a qualifier can sign up with Ryegate Show Services to support riders nationwide.
The Cherry Capital 3′3″ Equitation Championship Dudley and Barb Smith 3′6″ Equitation Championship will run alongside the existing Hamel Foundation National Horse Show Championships, ASPCA Maclay Regional Championships, and Taylor Harris Adult Equitation Championships which already call Traverse City’s Tournament of Champions home.
“This will be an exciting equitation extravaganza to prepare all of our riders for the fall circuit,” Don Stewart Show Stables owner Don Stewart said. “Traverse City has always provided us with a great facility and strong competition so I’m excited to see it further support the up-and-coming talents of the sport.”