WDAIL Affiliate

The Western Dressage Association® of America (WDAA) was founded in 2010.  It became the National Recognized Affiliate for the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) in December of 2013.

 On January 10, 2015, the first meeting was held in Illinois to start the Illinois affiliation process with guidance from WDAA. On February 24, 2015 the Western Dressage Association® of Illinois (WDAIL) was recognized by the WDAA as its official Illinois affiliate. 

FACEBOOK: WDAIL Facebook page

Who can teach me?

Click below to see a list of  trainers who have graduated from the TRAIN THE TRAINERS™.

WESTERN DRESSAGE SHOWS

·     All equine breeds are welcome.

·     Riding in a snaffle, hackamore, or curb bit is acceptable, as long as it meets the WDAA rulebook requirements.

·     The rider may use one or two hands with a curb bit but may not change during a test.

·     Protective headgear and chaps are welcome, but not required.

·     You have the freedom to choose what testing level is suitable for your horse.  Progress can then be made by studying the tests, the rulebook, and finding a knowledgeable instructor to guide you.

·     The Western Dressage Association® of Illinois is dedicated to providing you with all the resources you need to learn and connect with people in the industry.

About the Tests

Horses are evaluated at five testing levels.  The tests increase in difficulty and are designed to compliment the horse in each stage of training.

Introductory Level:  Performed only at the walk and jog, this test requires horse and rider to demonstrate balance and smoothness through basic figures like shallow serpentines and large circles.

Basic Level:  Emphasis is on relaxation, rhythm and balance.  Lope work is added, and the horse should accept light contact with the bit.

Level 1:  Impulsion and self-carriage through lengthening strides at the jog and lope are added, along with the leg yield, turns on the forehand and haunches, smaller circles, counter lope, and backing while staying engaged.

Level 2:  The horse should move with collection, remaining lightly on the bit.  Added movements include shoulder in, haunches in, 10 meter circles, and 360 degree turns on the haunches.

Level 3:  Collection is more refined, a true collected lope is required, and the hindquarters must carry more weight.  Added movements include lope to halt transitions, half pass at the jog and lope, renvers, and rein releases in the lope.