Equitation as a foundation
National Capitol Equitation LeagueThe National Capitol Equitation League (NCEL) is comprised of riding schools throughout Maryland and Virginia, giving riders an option to stay competitive during winter season. Our league affiliates include the National Capitol Short Stirrup Equitation League (NCSSEL) and the National Capitol Junior Equitation League (JEL), which provide a natural progression of learning and competitive riding.
Welcome Teams to the 2025-2026 Season!
The 2025-2026 NCEL, NCSSEL, and JEL season is almost underway. Schedules have been updated. Be sure to submit your rider participation forms (which can be found under the library tab) to your coach. Check out team merchandise, and stay tuned for more updates.
Join Us for the 2025 Awards Banquet!
Sunday, April 6, 2025
We look forward to seeing our JEL, NCSSEL, and NCEL teams at the 2025 Awards Banquet at the Maryland Jockey Club at Laurel Park, Terrance Dining Room. Doors open at 4pm for social hour, followed by dinner and awards at 5pm. RSVP to your team coach by March 26th. 2025 Awards Program
In the Media
NCEL Team Competition – Horse Times Magazine
Since its inception in 1979 the National Capitol Equitation League (NCEL) and its affiliates, the National Capitol Short Stirrup Equitation League (NCSSEL), and Junior Equitation League (JEL), have been teaching young men and women the values of good horsemanship and good sportsmanship…
United States Hunter Jumper Association
The National Capitol Equitation League (NCEL) is an affiliate of the United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA) which gives us access to additional awards, grants, and opportunities for our members.
You can learn more about the USHJA Affiliate Program at the links below, and sign up for USHJA Affiliate Membership at the United States Hunter Jumper Association website.
A COACHING LEAGUE
“Excellent coaches…excellent horses, well organized league…”
Teams compete at member riding facilities from October through March in a series of round-robin meets patterned after the intercollegiate leagues. Each barn has an indoor riding ring, schooling horses, and recognized judges. The NCEL league has two affliates, National Capitol Short Stirrup (NCSSEL) and the Junior Equitation League (JEL). Each league is a stepping stone to the next, but can be joined independently. League level is based on riding level, and not age.
Our Affiliates
The National Capitol Equitation League (NCEL) bylaws allow any group that has as its primary purpose the development, promotion, and governance of a series of competitive round-robin meets for the benefit of equestrians to become an affiliate of NCEL. NCEL’s affiliates are the National Capitol Junior Equitation League (JEL) and National Capitol Short Stirrup Equitation League (NCSSEL).
The National Capitol Short Stirrup Equestrian League (NCSSEL) provides an opportunity for novice junior riders to enhance their existing riding skills and prepare themselves for growth in the equine competitive sports.
Our Participating Barns
We Provide the Best Experience
