Jordan Gibbs may be a rookie at the FEI North American Youth Championships. But she’s come out of the gate riding like a seasoned veteran.

The early leader in the Children’s jumpers, this year marks Gibbs first time competing at NAYC—and even her first time competing in a large grand prix ring like the one at Traverse City.  

With a time of 55.64 seconds she and Douwe rode away with the win in the Children’s First Individual Qualifier 1.20m, helping to put the team from Zone 8/9/10 into the lead in the Children’s division team standings.

“I’ve always wanted to do this; it’s been a dream for a long time!” said Gibbs, 14. “When I got the chance to do the Children’s division, I was overwhelmed with excitement. To be honest, I thought I was just going to be doing the 1.10m, 1.15m Children’s Jumpers this year. So when I moved up to the Lows and I realized this was a legitimate goal, I was really excited!”

Jordan Gibbs and Douwe. Photo by Andrew Ryback Photography

Finishing in second behind Gibbs was her Zone 8/9/10 teammate, Reagan Tomb, who stopped the clock in 57.20 seconds riding Elba. Third place with a time of 59.41 seconds went to Mexico’s Emily Cinnamon Alvarez Beltran and Alizee Imperiale. Both fourth and fifth place also went to the powerhouse Zone 8/9/10 team, with Lilah Nakatani and Dianett taking fourth and Leila Diab and Unang de Kergane finishing in fifth.

“I’ve never competed for a team before,” said Gibbs, who trains with Beacon Hill Show Stables. “It’s a new atmosphere for me, and I really love it. I connected with my teammates online, so when I met them here, it felt like we’ve been friends for a long time!”

Sitting in second in the Children’s team standings is the Mexico I team. The full team standings are available to view here.

For the full schedule, results and more about the FEI North American Youth Championships, click here.

Feature image: ©Phelps Media Group