Question 1

What is the United Dressage and Jumping Club (UDJC)?

Accepted Answer

UDJC is a nationwide competition organization offering affordable, professional horse shows across the U.S. We host classes in Dressage, Jumpers, Hunters, and Young Horse categories that are thoughtfully designed for real rider, horse, and career development. With expert judging, transparent feedback, clear advancement pathways, and a focus on competitive excellence, UDJC makes high-quality showing accessible - without the high cost or complexity of traditional systems.

Question 2

What makes UDJC different from USEF shows?

Accepted Answer

UDJC was created as an alternative to USEF, with a focus on affordability, accessibility, and correct development. Our shows are less expensive, our judging is transparent with live feedback, and our classes are designed to support riders and horses as they grow, not just reward the fanciest horses or the fastest rounds. We offer structured paths for all levels, including Style-based Jumping, rider-focused Dressage, and realistic Young Horse divisions. At UDJC, it’s not about politics or price, it’s about riding with purpose and progressing with confidence.

Question 3

Who can participate in UDJC shows?

Accepted Answer

Riders of all levels, from beginners to advanced, can compete in UDJC shows. The system is designed to allow progression through qualification, ensuring riders compete at the appropriate level. Riders and horses participating at UDJC shows need to have a valid UDJC membership.

Question 4

Do I need to register my horse with UDJC?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all horses must be registered with UDJC to compete. Ponies also require Pony Passports in order to ride pony-specific classes, which can be obtained through the UDJC measurement process.

Question 5

How do I become a member of UDJC?

Accepted Answer

Joining UDJC is easy! Membership costs only $90 per year for adults ($75 for Juniors) and includes access to shows, exclusive clinics, and online resources. Visit the Membership page to sign up. We also offer trial memberships that are cheaper and valid for 30 days.

Question 6

What is the difference between Benchmark and Ability classes?

Accepted Answer

UDJC offers a dual-format Dressage system, allowing riders to progress through Benchmark levels or develop through Ability classes, depending on their goals.

Benchmark Tests are traditional Dressage tests judged on the horse’s performance, including precision, submission, and movement quality. Riders must qualify for each Benchmark level by earning required scores at the level below, ensuring they move up only when ready.

Ability Tests focus on the rider’s skill, not the horse’s quality. They include a group “free part” where riders follow judge instructions, verbal feedback from the judge, and a short individual test pattern. Ability Tests are open to all riders, and strong scores can be used to qualify into Benchmark levels — offering a fair, accessible path for motivated riders to advance.

Question 7

Can beginners compete at UDJC shows?

Accepted Answer

Yes! UDJC offers beginner-friendly classes, including lead-line and lunge-line classes, as well as low Dressage levels allowing auxiliary reins and Jumping classes over crossrails from the trot.

Question 8

Do you offer Hunter classes?

Accepted Answer

Yes! UDJC offers full Hunter divisions, starting at 2’6” and going up. Our Hunter courses are more technical and thoughtfully designed , often with Derby-style elements and two Handy rounds per division. We also offer Pony Hunter classes starting at 2’3”, as well as Young Horse Hunter classes with a unique open-format showcase. Every judged round comes with live feedback from the judge, making each class a learning opportunity as well as a true competition.

Question 9

Why do the Hunters start at 2’6” and not lower?

Accepted Answer

At UDJC, our Hunter divisions are designed for riders who already have a solid foundation in Dressage and Style Jumping. Starting at 2’6” ensures that riders are ready for the more technical, Derby-style courses we offer - with bending lines, related distances, rollbacks, and Handy rounds that require correct riding, planning, and rhythm. For riders not yet at that level, we offer Style Jumping classes from 40cm up, helping them build the skills needed to succeed in the Hunter ring when they’re truly prepared.

Question 10

What are Style Jumping classes?

Accepted Answer

Style Jumping classes are judged on the rider’s position, rhythm, balance, and effective lines rather than speed. This encourages correct technique and horse welfare over rushing for time and creates a great foundation for every rider's show Jumping career. All UDJC Jumping classes up to 85cm are Style Jumping classes.

Question 11

Are there age divisions in UDJC?

Accepted Answer

Yes, UDJC has age-specific categories, such as Pony (up to 16 years old), Children, Juniors, Young Riders, and U25. UDJC also offers U21 riders the chance to be part of a squad, which is an age-specific “elite team” of the best 5–10 riders of each level. UDJC squad members have access to exclusive clinics and coaches from the U.S. and Europe.

Question 12

How does judging work at UDJC shows?

Accepted Answer

Judging at UDJC is built on three key principles: fairness, transparency, and education. All judged classes — including Dressage, Hunters, Style Jumping, and Young Horse classes — are evaluated by highly qualified judges, many with international experience. Riders receive a clear score and live feedback after each round, with judges explaining what went well and what could be improved. In many divisions, scoring is based on a structured points system (like the 100-point scale in Hunters), so riders always understand how their performance was evaluated. The goal isn’t just to place riders — it’s to help them improve.

Question 13

13. How do riders qualify for higher levels?

Accepted Answer

Riders qualify by achieving specific scores in Benchmark or Ability classes. This system ensures readiness and protects horses from being over-challenged.

Question 14

Can I participate at a higher level Dressage without qualifying?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in Ability classes, not in Benchmark classes.

Question 15

How much does it cost to show at UDJC events?

Accepted Answer

That depends on the number of classes you show in and the venue. Typically, UDJC shows are about 30-40% of the cost of A-shows.

Question 16

Does my pony need a Pony Passport?

Accepted Answer

Yes and no. To compete in regular classes, your pony does not need to have a Pony Passport. Only if you want to ride in classes exclusively open for ponies, you need one. The Pony Passport can only be issued at a UDJC show.

Question 17

How do I apply for a Pony Passport?

Accepted Answer

You can apply for a Pony Passport at the show office of any UDJC show. Two UDJC officials will check your pony for soundness and measure it. In order to receive the Pony Passport, your pony needs to measure under 148cm (149cm with shoes). For more info check the Rule Book (Art. 109).

Question 18

Where are UDJC shows held?

Accepted Answer

Shows are held at professional equestrian facilities and barns with multiple arenas and class-appropriate footing.

Question 19

Are there warm-up arenas at UDJC shows?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all UDJC shows include warm-up arenas for riders to prepare before their classes. We also offer warm-up rounds in the show rings, typically on the day before the show.

Question 20

How is footing maintained at UDJC shows?

Accepted Answer

Footing is carefully managed with scheduled maintenance breaks to ensure safe and high-quality conditions throughout the event.

Question 21

Can I volunteer at a UDJC show?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! UDJC welcomes volunteers for roles such as assisting judges, managing arenas, and supporting event logistics. Contact us to learn more.

Question 22

Does UDJC offer clinics?

Accepted Answer

Yes, UDJC organizes exclusive clinics, often led by experienced professionals from all over the world. Clinics may also be part of show weekends.

Question 23

How do I stay updated on upcoming shows and events?

Accepted Answer

Follow UDJC on social media and check our website regularly for updates, show specifics, and registration deadlines.

Question 24

What happens in case of bad weather?

Accepted Answer

UDJC prioritizes safety. Shows may be rescheduled, delayed, or moved indoors based on weather conditions. Updates will be communicated promptly.

Question 25

Who can I contact if I have questions about a show?

Accepted Answer

For specific show inquiries, contact the show office listed in the event details or email UDJC’s support.

Frequently asked questions