PrintQ. Betsy, Oviedo, Florida
Because climbing the dressage levels becomes so difficult at Third Level, where collection starts, do you think there is a way to bridge this gap of understanding? Do you think dressage shows could offer lectures given by the judges on what collection is and how we must intricately put together the tests that require collection? Or do you think that job needs to stay with the trainers and coaches?
A. Dear Betsy,
Collection actually begins at second level. If you read the purpose on the top of the tests, it states that an "uphill tendency" is required. Judges expect the collection to come and go a bit at second level. In the 2003 tests, our U.S. Equestrian Federation Test writing committee felt the need to introduce movements that would help riders with collection. Hence, the introduction of simple changes instead of the old changes of lead through the trot.
Since these tests were changed in 2003 and improved for 2007, the committee members agree that the level of collection has also been improved. We have also discussed adding another level to bridge the gap between second and third level, but with all of the awards this would be "mission impossible." A good rule to follow is if you can score consistently above 63 percent at the highest test of the level, then you are ready to move into the next level.
Regarding the second part of your question, I think that judges and coaches need to speak the same language. Steffen Peters and I have been doing judge/trainer seminars across the USA to help promote this topic. These have been well received from coast to coast.
