Lexington, KY – The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) is pleased to announce the new Dressage Rider Tests Program for the 2013 competition year. Designed and drafted by a joint working group from the USEF Dressage Committee and appointees from the United States Dressage Federation (USDF), these tests are available for use by riders at Training, First, and Seconds Levels. While neither these tests nor their subsequent scores are a requirement to progress through the levels, they are intended to help riders measure their progress.
“The new tests are designed to evaluate the proficiency of the rider relative to the requirements of the given level, without giving extra credit for the horse’s gaits, impulsion and submission,” said Sub-Committee Chair Lisa Gorretta. “Riders will receive constructive evaluations that they can put to use in improving their abilities as a rider. The principles of correct application of the aids, correct riding biomechanics, and the accurate geometry of the figures are accessed through 5 scores evaluating rider’s position, correct and effective use of aids, horse’s response and performance, accuracy of the exercises, and harmony between rider and horse plus written commentary.”