programs, designed to promote sportsmanship, horsemanship, and the development of
riders and equitation horses through competition. Established in 1972, the program
offers qualifying classes and national championships for riders across age groups,
divisions, and breeds, including Saddlebred, Morgan, Arabian/Half Arabian, National
Show Horse, Pleasure, Adult, and Walk/Trot.

UPHA Challenge Cup classes are unique in that they are judged differently from most
traditional saddle seat equitation classes. Showmanship is paramount throughout the
class. Judging is based 60% for the rail work and 40% for the individual workout, rather
than a 50/50 split between the rail work and the individual workout.

Riders compete throughout the qualifying season for the opportunity to advance to
Chapter Championships and/or the National Finals held at many of the industry’s most
prestigious horse shows. The program reflects UPHA’s commitment to education and
youth involvement in the horse show industry by promoting confidence, discipline, and
sportsmanship in a positive, competitive environment.

UPHA CHALLENGE CUP FAQ:

 WHAT IS THE UPHA CHALLENGE CUP & WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO RIDE?

The UPHA Challenge Cup was established in 1972 to encourage competition for saddle seat equitation riders throughout the nation. The UPHA Challenge Cup is open to saddle seat equitation riders competing on a mare or gelding of any breed.

WHAT CLASSES ARE OFFERED IN THE UPHA CHALLENGE CUP PROGRAM?

Classes are available for Walk/Trot 10 & Under, Junior 13 & Under, Senior 14-17, and Adult 18 & Older. Challenge Cup Finals are available for riders competing on all breeds of saddle seat horses, including specific finals for riders mounted on Arabian/Half-Arabian horses, National Show Horses, Pleasure Equitation horses and Morgan horses.

HOW ARE UPHA CHALLENGE CUP CLASSES JUDGED?

Showmanship is paramount throughout the class. Judging in all UPHA Challenge Cup qualifying classes is based 60% on rail work & 40% on the individual workout.

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