The 2002 Northeast Junior/Young Rider Dressage Championships

Championship Requirements

In order to participate in the championships, riders must qualify with two scores of 55% or higher from any USA Equestrian dressage test of the level in which they intend to compete. The championships are a three-phase event, with each phase counting equally: a written test, a dressage test, and a group equitation class. The event is further sub-divided into age groups and five levels of riding (Training, First, Second, Third and Fourth levels). The written test assesses competitors' knowledge of horse anatomy and nutrition, equipment and safety rules, riding aids and position. The Equitation section is a group class in which riders show at the walk, trot and canter and are judged on their position, seat, and correct and effective use of the aids. The individual Dressage tests assess suppleness, balance and the forward nature of the horse and the correctness and effect of the rider's position and aids while guiding the horse through a specific pattern of movements and figures at the walk, trot and canter.

Riders as young as 4 but not older than 8 can compete in the Leadline division and will show at the walk, salute the judge and answer questions. Last year, nearly one-third of the riders also competed in the Prix Caprilli test, a dressage ride with jumps included. Drawn to this challenging test were both hunter/jumper riders with limited dressage experience and dressage riders testing their mettle over fences. The opening date for entries is June 4, 2002, and entries close July 29, 2002. More detailed information about championship requirements can be found on the website www.dressage4kids.com.