The leaders of the U.S. Equestrian Federation and the U.S. Dressage Federation—both of which are headquartered at the Kentucky Horse Park—announced today (June 22) that they\’ve reached an agreement to streamline the two organizations\’ recognition of dressage competitions across the country.

Starting in 2006, all dressage competitions recognized by the USEF will also be recognized by the USDF. That means show organizers won\’t have to apply to two organizations, saving time and paperwork.

“This is what USEF and USDF members and competition managers have asked for—a reduction in the paperwork and hassle that comes with separate USEF and USDF systems,” said John Long, the USEF\’s chief executive officer. “We\’re cutting the red tape for them. Both organizations have pledged their commitment to reduce this extra paperwork that so many members and organizers find burdensome.”

Said Stephan Hienzsch, the USDF executive director, “The implementation of USEF/USDF joint show recognition is a significant step to streamlining our sport by reducing the duplication of effort between USEF and USDF.”

Hienzsch added, “We look forward to additional cooperative efforts in the areas of joint membership and horse registration that will benefit our mutual members and the sport of dressage.”