ASPCA Maclay at the National Horse Show

The ASPCA Alfred B. Maclay National Horsemanship Championship stands as one of the most prestigious and historic equitation finals in the United States — a true benchmark of excellence in junior riding.

The championship’s origins date back to 1933, when Alfred B. Maclay, then an officer of the ASPCA and former President of the National Horse Show (1922–1924), donated the “Horsemanship Cup.” His vision was to create a class that would not only test riders’ technical ability but also encourage respect, empathy, and partnership with their horses.

Known simply as “The Maclay,” the competition was the first of the major “Big Eq” finals established in the U.S., predating even the AHSA (now USEF) Medal Finals. From the start, it emphasized a well-rounded display of horsemanship — evaluating riders on both flatwork and jumping performance — a principle that continues to define the event today.

The Path to the Finals

Each year, hundreds of junior riders (ages 18 and under) from across the country begin their journey toward the Maclay Finals by competing in ASPCA Horsemanship classes at USEF-sanctioned horse shows.

To be eligible, riders must be members of both the ASPCA and the National Horse Show Association of America (NHSAA). Throughout the qualifying season, competitors earn points to advance to one of eight Maclay Regional Championships, held in September at premier venues across the United States.

From there, the top-placing riders in each region earn the honor of competing in the ASPCA Maclay National Championship, held each fall at the National Horse Show in Lexington, Kentucky.

The Finals Format

Since 2015, the Maclay Finals have been held over two days of intense competition inside the Alltech Arena at the Kentucky Horse Park.

• Day One: Riders compete in the first round over fences, showcasing precision, rhythm, and style.
• Day Two: The judges select a smaller group of top performers to return for equitation on the flat, where they evaluate position, effectiveness, and overall harmony.
• After the flat phase, another cut is made, and the remaining finalists tackle a second jumping course designed to test adaptability and poise under pressure.

At the judges’ discretion, additional testing may follow before a champion is named — the rider who best demonstrates the full spectrum of equestrian skill, composure, and connection with their mount.

A Legacy of Champions

The list of former ASPCA Maclay winners reads like a who’s who of American equestrian sport. Many past champions have gone on to achieve international acclaim, representing the United States in Olympic Games, World Championships, and Nations Cups.

For today’s top junior riders, earning the Maclay Championship title remains a defining moment — a testament to years of dedication and a stepping-stone toward future greatness in equestrian competition.

Photo courtesy of Phelps Media Group