Dressage

Dressage is a form of riding similar to the more well known forms of riding called "Western", "Jumping" and "English Pleasure" each is a style of training the horse.  Dressage is also a competitive Olympic sport. The word 'Dressage' (pronounced "dress-ahz" and rhymes with "massage") is derived from the French term meaning "training" also known as "Schooling".  The origin of the sport was first noted in a book by the Greek General Xenophon around 400 B.C. As the history of the world evolved the training method was further developed by the Royal Court of Europe.  In the 17th century Dressage was firstly used as an aspect of warfare and then later as an art and sport. Dressage is a series of movements performed inside an arena it is the basis for all other areas of English style riding.  Dressage skills are also used in jumping and even in games.  A Dressage test can be a competition in its own right or as a part of a Combined Training or Horse Trials competition.

At MGDH&PC, whether it is an outside competition or an internal one, all members are expected to wear the full club formal uniform and to get your horse ready for competition.  Although it is not compulsory to dress, plait etc and check all your tack is correct on your horse and what you are carrying, it is however necessary if you wish to attain the maximum points needed or not be disqualified, always check the PCAQ Rule Books.  There are many different ways in which to get your horse ready but the best way is to ask someone for help at the club and learn what are their "tricks of the trade"!  Click here for the full details of the MGDH&PC uniform. 

We highly recommend every competitor purchases the PCAQ Rule Book for each discipline, not only will you understand what you are meant to be doing but it will eliminate any unnecessary and unfortunate mistakes in competition!  The costs of these books is $5.50 each and can be ordered directly from PCAQ.  Click here for the Booklist and here for the Order Form.

What is a Dressage Penciller?