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These are graded according to the ability of the horse and start with the Training Level (Test 1, 2, 3 & 4).  First and Second Levels each have four tests, while Third and Fourth Levels have three tests each.  Training through Fourth Level tests were written in the United States and became part of Canadian dressage competitions in 2003, when Equine Canada and USA Equestrian arrived at a signed agreement about the use of these tests.  The Prix St. Georges and the Intermediaire 1 make up the Advanced Division and the Intermediaire 2, Grand Prix and Grand Prix Speciale are the FEI Grand Prix Division.  It is the Grand Prix and the Grand Prix Speciale that are used at the Olympic Games.

All of the test in both the Advanced and Grand Prix Divisions are published by the Federation d'Equestre Internationale (FEI), the world-wide horse sports governing body.

For a more detailed description of the various levels of test, please refer to 'A Guide to Dressage Tests'.

HOW DO RIDERS KNOW WHICH CLASS(ES) TO ENTER?

Most horses start at Training Level.  They are allowed to enter any two consecutive levels, plus a freestyle or other novelty class if it is offered at their level.

E.g.: a horse may enter Training and First Level, but not Training and Second Level.

As a horse improves and gets higher scores over a period of time, he usually goes on to higher levels unless being used by a less experienced rider.

WHAT IS A "GOOD" SCORE?

Tests are divided into movements.  Each movement is marked separately o a 0 to 10 scale, similar to gymnastics.  The passing or "adequate" score is 50%.  Scores in the 60's are very good and in the 70's or higher, exceptional.

HOW DOES A RIDER KNOW WHEN TO RIDE?

Dressage shows are run on a strict schedule; riding times are available a day or two before the show.  Riders arriving late for the test are eliminated.

WHAT ARE THE TEST LIKE?

Each 'level' is comprised on either three or four tests and are of a similar but increasing level of difficulty.  The tests from Training through Fourth Level were created in the United States and are distributed by Equine Canada.  Tests above this level were written by the FEI.  A show will choose tests at each level and will send out a prize list well in advance of the competition.  All riders in a class ride the same test; they may memorize it or have it read aloud.  (Prix St. Georges and above must be ridden from memory).

The tests are made up of patterns and changes of pace which are performed at the various letters around the arena and are symmetrical, the same movements being performed in both directions.  The tests are not composed of tricks to be learned automatically.  The object of dressage training is to develop the horse physically and mentally, in harmony with his own natural way of moving and thinking; the tests are check points to display the level of balance, strength and obedience he has reached in his training.

WHY DOES THE BELL (OR WHISTLE) SOUND?

1) To tell the rider who is warming up that he has 45 seconds to enter the arena and begin the test.

2) To halt the test for any reason, such as an 'off course' mistake on the part of the rider.  After four mistakes, the rider must retire from the ring.

HOW ARE THE WINNERS DECIDED?

The highest scoring horse is the winner.  If there is more than one judge, scores will be averaged.  Scores are posted as quickly as they can be calculated, usually near the show office.  Winners received ribbons and, at some shows, trophies and prizes.

WHAT KIND OF CLOTHES MUST THE RIDER WEAR?

At informal (schooling) shows, you may see riders wearing light-coloured breeches, tweed or summer riding jackets, hunt caps and high brown boots.  You may also see the more formal dressage attire: white breeches, black or very dark jackets, black boots, white stock ties and a black bowler or low-crowned top hat.  Gloves are required at all shows and will be black or white with the more formal style.  In Training through Fourth Level classes, spurs are optional and a rider may carry a whip of a maximum length of 1.25m (4'1") into the dressage ring (except at Championships).  Prix St. Georges and up, the rider must wear tails (usually black) and a yellow waist coat, again with the top hat, white breeches, gloves, spurs (now mandatory) and black boots.  The rather strict dress code is designed to focus attention on the horse.

As of January 1, 2003, junior riders showing in Equine Canada sanctioned competitions at any level (Primary, Trillium, National) will be required to wear ASTM approved helmets.  Any tack check may include removal of the helmet to inspect this seal.  Although such headgear is only required for juniors, it is strongly recommended for all riders.

WHAT KIND OF TACK DOES THE HORSE WEAR?

A dressage or all-purpose saddle, a snaffle bridle in Training, First and Second Levels, a snaffle or double bridle (curb and snaffle bits) in Third and Fourth Levels, and only the double bridle in FEI classes.  Manes - but not tails - are usually braided.