Dear Amy,
My friend and I are adult amateur dressage riders. I ride at First level and my friend at Third level. We both are planning to ride a musical freestyle this fall. We were also interested in the dressage seat equitation classes. We were wondering if you could share any information and advice about things to know when competing in musical freestyle classes. We were also wondering if you could share some insight on what to expect when riding in an equitation class.
In the past we have only competed in traditional dressage classes.
Seeking Variety
Dear Seeking,
What fun that you are trying some new competition classes. They can be very rewarding! I would be happy to share some insight on how to make the most of the experience. Here are some tips and the regulations for riding these classes in 2024.
Let’s first start with the freestyle tests. Unlike traditional dressage classes, you cannot just sign up for a freestyle. A horse and rider combination must have competed at the highest test of that level or above and earned one minimum score to be eligible. This means you and your horse need to have competed at First Level Test Three (or any test at a higher level) and scored at least one 63%. Your friend and her horse need to have competed at Third Level Test Three (or above that level) and scored at least one 63%. For your information, all USDF freestyle tests (Training through Fourth level) require horse and rider pair to have scored a minimum of 63%. These scores must be earned at a competition held prior to the freestyle class you plan to enter. Your music must be presented to the show before the competition starts. Do check your prize list to see what format the show needs for the music. Sound checks are required before your ride. This is an important opportunity to make sure your music plays and to set the volume so
you and the judge can hear the music clearly and comfortably. It is important not to exceed the maximum time limit. You will be timed from your first halt to your final halt. Entry music is not timed. First level and Third level have no minimum time required, but there is a maximum 5-minute time limit for both levels. Each level has compulsory movements, and it is important to make note of the minimum meters required for certain movements. For example, in First level, you are required to show medium and free walk for at least 20 continuous meters. At First level there is a trot and canter lengthening, and they must be shown at least one time on a straight line. Beyond the compulsory elements, there are also “additionally allowed” movements. If you leave out a required movement, you will receive a 0 for that box on the scoring sheet. You may be creative after you have shown the required elements, but be mindful not to perform any moves, including transitions, above the level at which you are showing. These are known as “forbidden” moves, and will take points off your score. Freestyle tests have two scoring categories. The technical execution (compulsory elements) and artistic impression (collective marks). The same judge scores these two sections and the scores will be combined for a final percentage.
When it comes to music, I suggest sticking with one genre: show tunes, television theme songs, classical music, 1970s music and so on. Find something that suits you and matches your horse’s gaits. Don’t choose music with too many lyrics, and have different music for each of your gaits. Recognizable music always goes over well. Many good musical rides I have judged have had such memorable music, I cannot get it out of my mind for days and sometimes months! Try to be creative and entertaining from the start. Be clever, but make the ride easy to follow with a balanced use of the arena. Highlight the elements in which you and your horse excel and try to make the pattern of your ride more difficult than the highest test of the level you’re showing. Keep in mind it is not necessary to ride the full five minutes, although you want your judge to wish the ride would not end.
Now, let’s investigate dressage equitation classes. These are offered to juniors, young riders, adult amateurs, and open riders. This is a group class; all riders present themselves in the arena together. A class may have one rider or up to 25 riders. In this class, you will all be asked to show your horse in the medium walk, working trot and canter both ways of the arena. Be prepared to sit the trot if asked. Some shows may offer an “opportunity” equitation class. In these classes, riders will only be asked to walk and trot. Equitation classes evaluate your position, seat and specifically the correct use and effect of aids required for Training and First level. You may enter this class even if you normally ride at a higher level, but you must ride your horse in a snaffle bit. You may wear spurs and carry a whip. The judge is only looking at the rider, not the horse, unless there is a question of his soundness – a lame horse will be excused. All riders will earn a final mark as a percentage, which is usually similar to, or possibly a little higher than, what you would see in “rider position” on a standard test. For example, you might get a 78% as a final score. Usually, the judge will give verbal comments to the riders individually at the completion of the class.
Enjoy competing in these newer classes for both of you. In your freestyle, remember you are at liberty to ride your test artistically: you are free to ride movements, patterns, and gaits however you choose. Let the music highlight the harmony you share with your horse. An equitation class can be fun and instructive: Take the advice your judge offers at the end of the class. The better your equitation, the more effective you can be. Good luck!