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2026 STAL TOPS YOUNG RIDER SERIES ANNOUNCED

The 2026 Stal Tops Young Rider Series returns as Australia’s premier competition pathway for emerging showjumping talent, continuing its reputation as the nation’s richest and most prestigious young rider class. Thanks to the generous support of Stal Tops, Jan Tops, and Edwina Tops-Alexander, the series once again delivers an unmatched platform for young athletes to step confidently onto the international stage.

Edwina Tops-Alexander jumping Fellow Castlefield is one of the generous supporters behind the Stal Tops Young Rider Series. Image by Lukasz Kowalski.

Equestrian Life

Published 13 Feb 2026

The Stal Tops Young Rider Series has grown into a defining feature of Australia’s high‑performance pathway. By providing consistent opportunities, high‑level venues, and meaningful financial support, the series helps young riders gain confidence, exposure, and the competitive edge required for international success.

Stal Tops, Jan Tops, and Edwina Tops‑Alexander remain steadfast in their commitment to developing youth talent and expanding opportunities across the Oceania showjumping community.

Across four elite rounds, riders will compete for $3,400 in prize money at each event, along with a “Harcour” rug awarded to every round winner and the overall Series Champion. The series remains a cornerstone of high‑performance development, offering young riders experience at top‑level venues and exposure to world‑class standards of competition.

2026 series calendar

Round 1 – 13 to 15 February 2026
GDP Classic – Boneo Equestrian Park
Round 2 – 19 to 28 June 2026
Festival of Showjumping, Caboolture
Round 3 – 15 to 18 October 2026
Stonewall International World Cup Show
Round 4 – 6 to 8 November 2026
Boneo World Cup Final Show
 
Prize Money Per Round
1st: $1,200 + Harcour Winner’s Rug
2nd: $800 3rd: $600 4th: $400 5th: $250 6th: $150
Total $3,400 per round
 
The Series Champion will also receive a special Harcour Championship Rug, courtesy of Harcour.

2025 Series Winners Alexander Jang and Parallex SCF

About the series

Launched in 2018, the Stal Tops Young Rider Series was created by Edwina Tops‑Alexander and Jan Tops to provide high‑level opportunities, exposure, and professional‑level competition for Australia’s next generation of showjumpers. Riders accumulate points across the four rounds, with the highest‑scoring combination crowned Series Champion.

The 2026 overall leaderboard winner will again receive an exclusive Harcour Championship Rug and an invitation to experience Stal Tops through a short internship.

Source: Showjump info Press Release, edited by Equestrian Life