Overview of the Presentation

Understanding Dressage & Cones

Shelly presented a comprehensive webinar on Dressage and Cones rules and guidelines for ADS competitions, covering everything from entry requirements to specific movements and judging criteria. She explained the importance of knowing the rules, preparing properly, and setting achievable goals for competitions. Shelly shared practical tips for walking the cones course, handling errors during tests, and improving performance through targeted exercises. The presentation included detailed discussions on dressage movements, scoring, and the specific requirements for different levels of competition. Attendees asked several questions about rules and techniques, which Shelly addressed with clear explanations and practical advice. The webinar concluded with Shelly offering to answer further questions and providing contact information for additional rule clarification.

ADS Dressage and Cones Rules

Shelly focused on understanding requirements for judges to give better scores. She emphasized the importance of knowing the rules and dressage tests, which are available for free on the ADS website. Shelly encouraged attendees to join ADS and local clubs, highlighting the benefits and new junior club program. She explained the different divisions and classes, as well as the dressage evaluation criteria, and stressed the need to focus on rhythm, suppleness, and contact at lower levels. The presentation concluded with advice on choosing appropriate classes based on experience level and the option to go HC (Hor Concours) for more experienced horses or new drivers.

Dressage Test Requirements Overview

Shelly explained the requirements for Dressage tests at different levels, emphasizing rhythm, relaxation, and contact at the training level. She discussed the importance of transitions, balance, and bend, as well as the horse's ability to stretch and reach for the contact. At the preliminary level, Shelly highlighted the need for more development in rhythm, relaxation, and contact, as well as the horse's ability to lengthen strides and maintain balance. She also explained the requirements for the intermediate level, including improved impulsion and the development of self-carriage. Shelly concluded by discussing the hybrid class, which combines a higher dressage test with a lower level marathon, and the need for compliance with FEI rules for carriage width.

Competition Entry Guidelines

Shelly discussed entry procedures and rules for competitions, emphasizing the importance of timely entries and proper completion of forms to avoid event cancellations. She provided detailed information on dressage attire, rules, and penalties, including the upcoming potential requirement for helmets in dressage. Shelly also shared tips for walking the dressage ring before competition and emphasized the importance of fulfilling dressage test requirements to receive good scores from judges.

Dressage Test Preparation Techniques

Shelly discussed key aspects of dressage test preparation and execution, emphasizing the importance of a proper warm-up routine and allowing sufficient time for warm-up before the test. She highlighted the significance of correct salutes and halts, advising against pulling back on the reins and instead using small half-halts and voice commands to teach horses to halt properly. Shelly also stressed the importance of maintaining clear, elastic contact with the horse, avoiding long or loose reins, and ensuring proper alignment and balance during turns and corners.

Dressage Fundamentals

Shelly discussed key aspects of dressage, including rhythm, tempo, suppleness, and the importance of maintaining balance and organization during a test. She emphasized the need to find an appropriate tempo for each horse, considering their current capabilities, and advised using the whip to help the horse bend, especially in the first turn off the center line. Shelly also highlighted the significance of a clear transition from trot to lengthened trot and back, as well as the importance of achieving lateral and longitudinal bend without overusing the inside rein, which can cause the horse to become unbalanced.

Horse Driving Techniques and Tips

Shelly discussed techniques for improving horse driving, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a good contact with the horse and using voice commands for backing. She advised drivers to be proactive, use the whip appropriately, and maintain good posture to enhance performance. Shelly also highlighted the significance of accuracy in driving tests and encouraged drivers to read the rulebook for a better understanding of submission, gaits, and driver scores.

Dressage Scoring and Judge Guidelines

Shelly explained the scoring system judges use in dressage, emphasizing the importance of basics, movement quality, and modifiers. She highlighted common errors such as counterbent posture and lack of preparation, and encouraged drivers to seek help and improve. Shelly also discussed error of test scenarios, explaining when judges ring the bell or give penalties, and advised drivers to stop, ask for clarification, and correct errors. She concluded by addressing disobedience issues and safety concerns, urging drivers to prioritize horse control and safety.

Cones Competition Rules Overview

Shelly provided a comprehensive overview of cones competition rules and strategies, emphasizing the importance of proper preparation and understanding of rules. She explained the need for helmets and appropriate attire for both drivers and grooms, as well as the importance of knowing wheel measurements and standardized cone settings. Shelly discussed the rules for walking the course, including the requirement to dress neatly and memorize the course layout. She also covered the rules for starting and completing obstacles, emphasizing the importance of not stopping unless necessary and the consequences of disobedience.

Dressage and Cones Driving Insights

Shelly provided an informative presentation on dressage and cones driving, answering questions about measuring circles, and medium trot definitions. She emphasized the importance of consulting rulebooks and officials for rule clarifications, and encouraged self-expression in cones driving attire while ensuring it complements the horse. Shelly concluded by encouraging competitors to set measurable goals and provided exercises to help improve skills in cones and dressage.