Waterford snaffles for dressage

[Liz Sutton]

I am shortly to attempt my first dressage test, which I understand is to be run under BD rules though unaffiliated. I normally ride my horse in a hanging cheek Waterford snaffle. When I asked if this was allowed the organisers initally said no to the Waterford mouthpiece though hanging cheeks are allowed, but then said they thought that there might be a recent decision to allow this type of snaffle. Does anyone know the latest position please?

[belle]

I dont know what the latest decision is, although I would think that a Waterford snaffle would be too severe to be allowed in BD run dressage tests.

Anyone know any different?

[Lgd]

Hanging cheek - yes
Waterford mouthpiece - no.

Checked the rule book for this year. The hanging cheeks MAY become a no next year if BD follows the FEI dressage rules as they have now put hanging cheek snaffles on the not allowed list apparently - not sure why as I haven't hunted for the info. I think it may only be for if it is combined with a curb bit in a double bridle and not as single bit.