LEXINGTON, Ky. — The United States Dressage Federation announced Oct. 29 the approval and release of the official USDF Training Level Freestyle.

Approved by the USDF Dressage Committee and the respective 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, a spokesperson said.

The USDF Training Level Freestyle will go into effect on Dec. 1 this year for use in competition. Dolly Hannon, USDF Freestyle Committee Chair, commended the effort.

“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,” Hannon said. “We hope that it will also bring even more enjoyment to their competition experience.”

Hannon added that 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 that “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. Additional information about the USDF Training Level Freestyle, or freestyles through Fourth Level, may be obtained by contacting the USDF office at musicalfreestyle@usdf.org.

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