2026 USLA Rising Stars Model & Movements Competition

2026 USLA Lusitano Conference
September 25–27, 2026
Haras dos Cavaleiros | Magnolia, Texas

The USLA Rising Stars Model & Movements Competition evaluates Lusitano horses for morphology, balance, movement, and functional quality in accordance with the standards of the APSL (Associação Portuguesa de Criadores do Cavalo Puro-Sangue Lusitano).

Horses presented may be awarded APSL Gold and Silver medals, recognizing individuals that demonstrate the correct combination of type, functionality, and athletic movement expected of the Lusitano breed.

The Rising Stars competition is made possible through the generous support of the Rama Dressage Foundation, the primary sponsor of the USLA Rising Stars program.

Competition Structure

The competition follows the traditional format used in APSL Model & Movements events, with horses evaluated according to age, sex, and training level.

At the 2026 USLA Lusitano Conference, classes will be presented in two groups: male classes on Friday evening and female classes on Saturday morning.

Regulations & Prize List

Article 1 – Entries

Entries will be completed online via Fox Village.

All horses must be APSL registered.

The organizing committee reserves the right to accept or decline entries.

Article 2 – Admission & Presentation

All horses must be presented to the Admissions Jury prior to competition.

Males: Friday evening
Females: Saturday morning

Horses must be presented in-hand and/or under saddle as appropriate to their class.

Presentations must be made in a consistent and appropriate style of turnout.

Article 3 – Veterinary Requirements

All horses must comply with standard show requirements, including:

Negative Coggins
Current vaccinations (EHV I/IV and Influenza)
Health Certificate

Article 4 – Judging

Judging will be conducted by an APSL-recognized judge.

In-hand: up to 2:30
Mounted: up to 3:00

Placings awarded through 4th place.

Judge decisions are final.

Article 5 – Awards & Prize Money

Classes

Ribbons: 1st–4th
Trophies: 1st place
APSL Medals:
- Gold (Excellent)
- Silver (Very Good)

Prize Money

Standard Classes ($500 total):

1st: $250
2nd: $175
3rd: $50
4th: $25

Championship Classes ($1,000 total):

1st: $600
2nd: $300
3rd: $100

Two-entry championship split: $650 / $350

Prize money will be paid via Venmo following the event.

Special Awards

Best Breeder
Best Presenter

Article 6 – Competition Classes

Females

Mares, 1 year
Mares, 2 years
Mares, 3 years
Mares, 4 years (Model & Under Saddle)
Mares, 5+ (Model & Under Saddle)

Championships:

Female Champion – In-Hand
Female Champion – Mounted

Males & Geldings

Stallions, 1 year
Stallions, 2 years
Stallions, 3 years
Geldings, 4+ (Mounted)
Stallions, 4 years (Model & Under Saddle)
Stallions, 5+ (Mounted & In-Hand)