FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SOURCE: ENDURANCE.NET
January 13 2025
The official U.S. Endurance Team for the 2026 World Championship has not yet been selected. The qualification window is currently open (running through July 2026), and the final squad will not be named by the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) until closer to the event date.
However, based on the 2024 World Championship Team (competed in Monpazier, France) and current USEF Elite Rankings, the following athletes and horses are the primary contenders likely to vie for spots on the 2026 squad.
Top U.S. Contenders (The "Watch List")
These athletes are currently competing at the elite 3* (160 km) level required for the World Championships.
1. Jeremy Reynolds (Dunnellon, FL)
A veteran of multiple World Championships (2012, 2014) and a multi-time Tevis Cup winner.
- Top Horse: Treasured Moments (2010 Arabian Mare)
- Notes: This pair is a powerhouse in U.S. endurance, having won multiple 160 km events, including the 2022 World Championship Test Event.
2. Kelsey Russell (Williston, FL)
A highly experienced rider who has moved from Young Rider gold medals to the Senior team.
- Top Horse: Juno Im Gold (2015 Half-Arabian Gelding)
- Notes: They were part of the 2024 World Championship team and finished 34th. This horse is hitting his prime age (11) for the 2026 event.
3. Holly Corcoran (Stroudsburg, PA)
A consistent finisher known for careful pacing and horsemanship.
- Top Horse: Lorienn (2012 Arabian Mare)
- Notes: Finished 33rd at the 2024 World Championships (crossing the line with Kelsey Russell).
- Other Horse: Poete (2007 Arabian Gelding) – likely nearing retirement from championship level by 2026, but still a key backup.
4. Cheryl Van Deusen (New Smyrna Beach, FL)
Consistently the #1 ranked U.S. senior rider by points, often competing on multiple horses.
- Top Horses:
- JG General (2012 Arabian Gelding) – Competed at the 2023 World Championships in UAE.
- Madjule (2015 Arabian Mare) – A strong up-and-coming 160 km horse.
Notable Young Riders / Rising Talent
While the focus is on the Senior team, top Young Riders often step up to the Senior level for World Championships if they have a capable horse.
- Avery Betz-Conway: Represented the U.S. at Young Rider Championships and has strong recent results.
- Alex Shampoe: Served as an alternate for the Senior team in 2024.