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JUNIORS IN OCTRA

Welcome to the Adventure!

Juniors are a vital part of OCTRA!
As Ontario’s home for endurance and competitive trail riding, we’re all about helping young riders learn, grow, and have fun — safely and confidently — in the great outdoors.

Long-distance riding builds horsemanship, teamwork, and lasting partnerships with horses (and new friends!). It’s also a fantastic way to boost conditioning, pacing, and overall riding confidence — skills that carry over to every equestrian sport. Plus, who doesn’t love camping, trail time, and a community that cheers you on?

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OCTRA Pathway

Ride 'n Tie — A Family Friendly Start

One horse, one rider, one runner — and a whole lot of fun! Teams share the trail, switching roles along the way.
Perfect for families and new riders, Ride 'n Tie events (around 10 km) are relaxed, inclusive, and full of laughter. Many Juniors start here and grow into confident competitors — even taking on the adults!

Training Rides & Set Speed — Building Experience

Begin with short, educational Training Rides, then try Set Speed events where pacing and teamwork come into play.
These formats help Juniors build trail sense, safety, and horse management skills — all in a friendly, low-pressure environment.

 Set Speed is not offered outside of Ontario.

Limited Distance — Go the Extra Mile

Ready for more adventure? Limited Distance (LD) rides (about 40 km) introduce real endurance experience, including vet checks and pacing strategy. Juniors learn about hydration, recovery, and energy management — essential for horse and rider alike.
Many riders choose to join the AERC next, opening the door to competitions across North America.

Endurance — The Long-Distance Challenge

Endurance rides (80 km+) are the heart of the sport — testing preparation, partnership, and perseverance.
Juniors compete under full OCTRA sanctioning and earn recognition for every kilometre they conquer. It’s demanding, but incredibly rewarding!

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Recognition & Rewards

Every ride counts! Juniors earn mileage awards, year-end honors, and lifetime distance milestones through OCTRA’s Distance Rewards Program — celebrating dedication and the spirit of adventure.

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Long Term Athlete Development Pathway to Higher Competition

While participation at each level is optional, OCTRA’s sanctioned events create a clear and recognized pathway for those who wish to progress in the sport. Experience gained through local and provincial rides can lead to participation in:

• Provincial Championship Junior Divisions

• National Championship Junior Divisions

• FEI Young Rider competitions

• North American Youth Championships (formerly NAJYRC)

• FEI Junior and Young Rider World Championships

Many riders who began as Juniors in OCTRA have gone on to represent Canada internationally, building on the foundation of experience earned here at home.

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Junior Age & Membership Details

Please review the Junior section of the OCTRA Rule Book, as special regulations apply to Junior members:

• Junior Riders are members 17 years of age and under as of January 1 of the competition year.

• A 14-year-old Junior may ride independently if they meet the criteria outlined in the Rule Book.

• Sponsored Riders are members 15 years of age and under as of the date of competition and must be accompanied by a capable sponsor at all times on the trail.

• While OCTRA does not offer a Young Rider membership, Equestrian Canada and the FEI do (ages U15–U22).

All Junior members are eligible for year-end awards but are not permitted to vote on OCTRA business.

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Growing with OCTRA

OCTRA proudly supports Juniors as they build confidence, responsibility, and lifelong bonds with their horses — all while exploring Ontario’s most beautiful trails.
Adventure, friendship, and fun await — come ride with us!

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