Apprentice Program
Launched in 2026, Road to the Top’s Apprentice Program is a high-accountability learning track for emerging American show jumping professionals who are ready to deepen their education behind the scenes and in the ring before moving into a higher-level competitive development role. At the conclusion of the six-month program, Apprentices will be evaluated by the RTTT mentors.
While the Tier 1 program supports athletes already ready for advanced competition, the Apprentice Program focuses on the foundation of a professional life in the sport: horse care, management, travel, competition preparation, barn systems, and the judgment that can only be learned through daily immersion with top professionals.
Road to the Top provides a stipend to Mentors that goes toward living expenses for their Apprentices. Athletes must be competing in the jumper ring with current results and video to apply.
Term: 6-month apprenticeship, with specific dates and schedule expectations set at acceptance
Education: Riding and training opportunities as appropriate and horse care (veterinary, farrier, feed, turnout, travel, show prep)
Professional Development: Business basics, client and owner communication, donor stewardship, time management, media training, and career planning
Expected Outcome:
Apprentices complete the term with a written evaluation, a practical understanding of professional stable operations, and a personalized next-step plan.
When readiness, program fit, horses, and funding align, an Apprentice may be considered for Tier 1.
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