First dressage test

[Sue]

Hi
I'm feeling so pleased with myself that I just had to let everyone know. I've just got back from my first ever show, it was 'One horse and two riders'. One person did a dessage test and the other jumped. I did the dressage - first time ever and I'd only had chance to practice it twice before the tast. I got 139, not sure how good that ids but I was pretty pleased, then the other girl jumped a clear round which gave us 4th place overall!!! There were 10 in our class so as you can probably tell I'm pretty chuffed with myself!
Sue

[FRED]

Hi, what a wonderful sport to be involved in,all those
hours of dedication and training,I'm just happy to watch.
I enjoy the Royal Show,its great to sneak off from the trade stand and get lost amongst the show areas for two hours.

[Silvia]

Well done, Sue!!! Congratulations! :)

[palomino22]

Can someone explain to me what exactly you do in a Dressage Test?

I know what dressage is, of course, but not what the test itself entails.

Thanks.

[Daphne]

Sorry but what is dressage?
Well done. Did you have to wear show clothes?
A very uneducated Daphne.

[Sue]

Dressage involves riding a set series of movements, you get marks for each movement out of 10, and also for overall style, technique, position, suppleness of the horse etc. There are several levels of tests from preliminary right through to Grand Prix etc. Generally speaking each competitor rides the same test of which there are many - increasing in difficulty the higher you go. It helps to learn the test thoroughly but you are allowed to have someone 'call' the movements out to you as you perform them. 'Show' clothes should be worn and at higher levels riders often wear tail coats and top hats.

I was riding a preliminary test and as it was all done at such short notice had to just wear a borrowed shirt and tie and black V necked jumper!! (and jodphurs of course!!)

Hope that helps - I'm sure the more experienced members of the board will explain it betterthan I can!

[Sarah]

Sue was doing prelim 14 which is a tricky one with lots to think about in it and her mark meant she got over 60% Isn't that just brilliant for a first test? Don't we all now hate Sue!

Seriously though, she did really well and all credit to her for her marks (but I am still jealous of them!)

bye!

[LesleyR]

Sue! (or should that be Ruth???) I think I know where you were!!

Apologies if I'm on the wrong track but would I be right in thinking the first two horses in the class both compete at affiliated dressage? - so even more well done!

Best wishes from the 3rd placed

[Sue]

Hi Lesley!!! Yes you are quite correct - it's a small world!!

Just to explain to everyone else I am really called Sue but the owner of our yard insists on calling me Ruth at times so I've learnt to answer to both!!

Congratulations to the pair who came 3rd!!