The United States Dressage Federation has announced the approval and release of the USDF training level freestyle. Approved by the United States Equestrian Federation dressage committee and the USDF judges and freestyle committees, this freestyle is designed to encourage development of rhythm, regularity, and consistency of tempo in a horse’s gaits through the use of music; and to improve harmony between horses and riders. The USDF training level freestyle will go into effect on Dec. 1, 2012, for use in competition.

Dolly Hannon, USDF freestyle committee chair, stated, “Through the diligent work and coordinated effort of the USDF Freestyle and Judges Committees, and the USEF Dressage Committee, we are pleased to provide this opportunity for members to explore riding to music, and the benefits associated with it. We hope that it will also bring even more enjoyment to their competition experience. The US Pony Club’s willingness to share their score sheets and experience in training level freestyles allowed for the speedy approval of this test, and we couldn’t be more excited for its launch!”

The USDF training level freestyle test sheet can be found on the USDF website under the competitions menu. Rules regarding the requirements to ride a training level freestyle can be found on the USEF website under DR rules. For more information about the USDF training level freestyle, or freestyles through fourth level, please contact the USDF office at musicalfreestyle@usdf.org.