Advantages of the Athletic Equestrian League

Image by Photos by Carolyn Cote

Discover the advantages of joining the AEL

This is a unique equestrian competition program designed to develop well-rounded riders through both horsemanship and equestrian knowledge. AEL combines riding competition with educational testing, creating opportunities for riders of all ages and experience levels to improve their skills, build confidence, and gain valuable horse management knowledge. Through team-based competition, athletes develop sportsmanship, leadership, and camaraderie while earning recognition at local, regional, and national levels. Whether you're looking for an equestrian league for youth or adult riders, horse show opportunities, riding team experiences, or a pathway to national equestrian competition, AEL provides an inclusive and educational environment that supports success both in and out of the saddle.

  • Athletes in the AEL are scored on the flat(40%), over fences or ground-poles(40%) and in an unmounted practicum(20%), no more guessing why your riders place like they do. And your athletes get to take home their score sheets for flat and fences which also includes judge’s comments.

  • AEL Team competition is for 4th-12th graders and also offers a Minis development program for 1st-3rd graders and an Adults program

  • Athletes do their classes in succession, flat first, followed by fences and then the practicum, which means parents can watch their child compete and not wait around all day for them to be finished

  • AEL offers a special one-time “Try-It” fee for barns and athletes to try the AEL at a reduced cost and then pay the membership fee balance when they are ready to do another competition

  • Trainers can host AEL competitions even with a small arena, there are never more than 5 jumps in the arena

  • Athlete names and their team are announced as the rider enters the arena, helping to publicize your barn/program

  • Athletes entered in the competition can warm-up your horses in the morning, eliminating the need to find schooling riders not entered

  • Barns are not required to host competitions in their first year of membership, but hosting is a great experience for your athletes and everything you need to host is on the website.

  • Athletes compete on the host barn’s horses, there’s no need to transport your horses, and this “catch-riding” is the same type of riding in collegiate riding

  • Athletes learn valuable horse knowledge through the CHA Manual and the unmounted practicum

  • We prioritize FUN!