Horse Youth Programs

Equestrian Youth Opportunities at the NWSS

The Horse Show strives to support the National Western’s overall mission of supporting youth and education within our agricultural industry. We host several events and programs in a variety of areas for local youth to experience different parts of this premier horse show and earn scholarship money.


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Junior Apprentice Committee
Mentor Matchup

The Junior Apprentice Committee provides professional, hands-on experience to local equestrians and involve them in the networking and educational opportunities of Stock Show while supporting the overall mission and activities. Applications will open in the fall and be accepted until September 30, 2023.

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2024 Junior Apprentice Committee Specifications

Apply NowApps Close 9.30
Youth Ranch Horse Mentor Matchup
Mentor Matchup

Event Date: January 5-6, 2024 | Events Center, CINCH Arena

This event provides an opportunity for local equestrian youth to learn and compete during NWSS through relevant hands–on educational activities with their equine partner and top equine professionals. Applications will open August 1st and be accepted until October 31, 2023.

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2024 Mentor Matchup Specifications

Apply NowApps Close 10.31
Youth Freestyle Reining Showcase
Youth Freestyle Reining

Event Date: Sunday, January 7, 2024 | Events Center, CINCH Arena

This event provides local youth within the equine industry an opportunity to showcase their talents in freestyle reining and be recognized during a prestigious event at the National Western Stock Show. Selected youth will perform prior to the RAM Invitational Freestyle Reining. Applications will open in the fall and be accepted until September 30, 2023.

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2024 Youth Freestyle Reining Specifications

Apply NowApps Close 9.30

Youth Equestrian Showcase (YES) Scholarship Program
2020 YES winners

The National Western Stock Show Youth Equestrian Showcase (Y.E.S.) scholarship program is intended to recognize and support our local equestrian youth and involve them in the educational opportunities of the NWSS. Applications will open in the fall and be accepted until September 30, 2023.

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2024 Youth Equestrian Showcase Specifications

Apply NowApps Close 9.30
Internship Opportunities
Stock Show College Internship Opportunity

The National Western offers internship positions in a multitude of areas. The Horse Show internship is a hands-on intense educational experience with the potential to build lifelong connections. These interns will be part of a strong team producing a world-class event and will spend time learning various aspects of the Horse Show. They will have direct contact with staff, exhibitors, and guests as well as production teams including announcers, producers, performers, and other staff.

Equine Event Internship

Spring-Summer (May-August)
This internship focuses on both preparation for the NWSS and third-party managed equestrian events hosted at the National Western Complex throughout the year (Complex Events).

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Western National Roundup

Event Date: January 4-7, 2024

Western National Roundup provides a place for youth to compete nationally while encouraging teamwork. This national youth development conference hosts 4-H & FFA youth from around North America and offers them workshops, networking, and fun in addition to national competitions. National Western proudly hosts the national horse judging and hippology contests.

Contact the Colorado 4-H State Office for more information.

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