2026 Lee Bird Classic Youth Stakes

One of the true highlights of the 2026 Lee Bird Classic was the Youth Stakes, which featured eleven youth participants handling over fifteen dogs throughout the weekend. The future of our sport was proudly on display, and it was a true crowd pleaser for everyone in attendance.

Temperatures for the Member Youth Stakes were favorable at breakaway, and the large gallery following on horseback and dog wagons was excited to cheer on and support all of the young handlers. The older participants challenged themselves by running the full course, while our youngest members confidently handled their dogs through the breakaway course. It was wonderful to see sportsmanship, determination, and enthusiasm from every participant.

Events like these are so important to the longevity and future of the sport, and it was inspiring to watch the next generation of handlers step up and shine at the English Setter Club of America during the Lee Bird Classic weekend.

Thank you to the McCay Family and the Cincotta Family for sponsoring the Youth Stakes and gift bags for our handlers. Special thanks as well to the Youth Field Trial Alliance for their continued support and donations.

A sincere thank you to our judges — Norman Basilone, Gary Miller, Joe Lordi, and Joe Cincotta — for their time, support, and encouragement of our youth handlers. Thank you to Matthew Basilone for assisting with the event!