If you would like to bring your horses and show at a world famous show, please contact Cathy at [email protected]
Here is more information on what is required:
The ATAA’s next promotion is sponsoring a class at Dressage at Devon. Our Chairperson for this event is member Trisha Urban. Trisha writes:
So what is Dressage at Devon?
Dressage at Devon is the most prestigious dressage competition in the hemisphere. Held from September 27 -October 2nd, and located in Devon, Pennsylvania, It is an international rated dressage show as well as the largest open breed show in the world. Recognized internationally as a rated dressage show, it was and has been one of the Olympic qualifying events for FEI dressage.
The show is broken down into two types of classes, the breed division and performance classes. In the breed division, horses are judged on movement conformation. More than 29 breeds are represented. Most classes are shown in hand at a walk and trot.
The performance classes ridden under saddle and are a dressage test. The highlight of the show is the Grand Prix musical freestyle class where horse and rider “dance” to music with incredible power and grace. Competitors are not only from across the country but across the world.
The Akhal-Teke will have its second year of our own breed division at Dressage at Devon. The class will be shown in hand. All ATAA registered Akhal-Teke horses will be eligible to show in this class- from yearling to stallion. The prestigious nature of the show can be very intimidating but all you need to show in the class is a white polo shirt, khaki pants, and running shoes. Young horses can be show in a halter with mare by their sides, older horses are shown in just a bridle. If you are not comfortable showing your horse in hand or not able to keep up with your horse’s trot, you can hire a handler to show your horse for you.
I STRONGLY encourage people to show at this show – not only is it a true honor to step foot with your horse at this show grounds but is an incredible opportunity for the Akhal-Teke breed to be promoted and recognized across the WORLD … to bring back the breed’s fame from the days of the Olympic dressage…Akhal-Teke Absent. Be a part of history!
Questions
How much does it cost to show at Dressage at Devon?
Entry fees for the breed classes were $45 last year. There was an additional charge of $30 for non-USDF members and $16 for USDF members. Stabling fees are $50 per day with additional charge for shavings if needed.
How do I show my horse in hand? Here is a great video about showing in hand by Michael Bragdell. He is the head trainer of Hilltop Farm, Inc. Michael has handled hundreds of horses at breed shows around the country and has won numerous Championships. I had the pleasure of meeting Michael and training with him during a handling clinic – very down to earth person encourages each person and horse, regardless of breed, to be their best.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZkG8o6PgnA
I can’t braid, does my horse need to be braided? There are professional braiders that can be hired for about $75 per mane. Given the breed standard of having a roached mane, I do not think that it would be inappropriate if only showing in the Akhal-Teke class.
I live pretty far away, how would I get my horse to Devon? I highly recommend using the website movemyhorse.com to get a quote from competing horse haulers without expensive commissions of Uship.
When are entrees due? Typically Opening date of the show is the end of July and closing date is September 1st. 2016 dates have not been posted yet.
Want to know more! Go to dressageatdevon.org for more information or email Cathy Leddy at [email protected]
The write up of last year’s AT class: