Dressage
MAKING THE FOUNDATIONS OF RIDING SIMPLE, STRUCTURED, AND FUN
At UDJC, Dressage is judged on correct basics, rider influence, and a fair qualification path that rewards true progress in both Benchmark and Ability Classes.
Benchmark Tests
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Classic Dressage tests judged primarily on the horse’s performance.
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Riders must qualify their way up through the levels.
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Provide official scores that count toward moving up.
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Tests designed to ensure correct progression and horse welfare.
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Mirror traditional Dressage structure with set patterns and tests.
Ability
Tests
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Judged on the rider’s skill and effectiveness, not the horse's quality and gaits.
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No qualification required, open to all riders.
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Held in a group format, just like a lesson or a clinic.
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Serve as a stepping stone toward Benchmark tests.
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Focus on rideability, accuracy, seat and aids, rather than perfection of the horse’s movement.
Structure of Ability Classes
Part 1:
Free section where up to 3 riders ride together while the judge calls out level-specific movements.
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Part 2:
The judge gives live feedback on the microphone after the free part.
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Part 3: Each rider rides a short individual benchmark-style pattern for a final score.
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Extra: Ability Class scores can be used to qualify for the same level of Benchmark tests. See Rulebook for Level specific score requirements.
