Affiliated Dressage

[nicnag]

I'm looking for info on affiliated dressage. My 9 year old mare and I have been doing prelim and Novice tests at RC level for the past two years with reasonable, consistent test results (mainly 6 and 7 scores with occasional lapses!). I'd like to have a go at BD but was wondering what other peoples experiences where and what level would be considered capable of coping? Also how much are fees ? I'm in Scotland (borders) so wwould particularly like to hear from anyone in that area. Most of the bigger venues are fairly easily reached from ours. Thanks

 

[Sparklet]

You can do affiliated prelim classes as an open rider (if they have an open class) and this will give you a flavour of what it is like to complete. The open and restricted sections are usually judged by the same judge but scores are put up separately and from this you will be able to tell where you would have come in the restricted section (which you will be in if you join).

You can join as a member for about £50 and compete in the restricted section of prelim classes if you like but will need to register your horse (another £50 I'm afraid) to do a higher level or to compete at regional champs or area festivals.

I would definately do a few prelims and try to get qualfied for the regionals - you need to win or come second in a qualifier with over 65% in two classes to qualify. If your %'s or placings are not high enough you can compete at the area festival with two tests of the same level with above 59%.

Once you have prelim sorted you can move up and do novice.

I personally found that my % went up from about 62% to 69% when I went affiliated - either I have got better or the judging at unaffiliated is a bit harsher, however saying that not everyone has had the same experience so it may not be that way for you. Some people will advise getting a really high % at unaffiliated before considering going affiliated which may not be necessary - like I said earlier why not go and have a go at an open class to see what happens.

Good luck with it all.

 

[nicnag]

Thanks Sparklet

The main reason I was consideriing the affiliated move was because the judges would be more consistent, our local competitions have been judged by all sorts recently which has given really varied test results!

I had planned on starting at Prelim, I'm not confident enough going up the levels until someone tells me I should!

I've been on the BD website to see what is scheduled sooon locally so I think we'll go and give it a shot!

 

[Taboo1968]

Go for it..... however as long as you join BD you can ride an unregistered horse in the Restricted section.... but as Sparklet says if you qualify, you have to then register the horse to participate in the regionals....
The judging I would say is harsher! so expect a percentage drop.... but give it a go.... its really no different to Unaffiliated apart from the fact that there are a lot more dates to choose from and better things like prize money!