Rules

Online Dressage Rules for Dressage Addict, British Dressage approved provider.

On entering any of the classes or events with Dressage Addict, you accept and abide by the Rules laid out here:

• Rider Account: In order to enter a class or event with Dressage Addict riders need to have created an account and profile. You can register more than one horse under your account and personalise you profile. Please see our Privacy Policy for more information.
• Under 18’s: Any rider aged under 18 must have parental permission. Riders aged 16 and over may register their own account but parental consent will need to be completed as part of the registration process (this is in line with our safeguarding policy).
• Under 16’s: Any rider under 16 years old will need to be registered on a parent/guardian account to ensure parental consent is in place. Where there is more than one child under the age of 16 then there is the option to add them all under one parental account.
• Horse and Rider combinations: we request that riders only enter classes at the level that reflects the combination of horses and riders level of training and competing accurately.
• Combinations may not enter a class more than one level below their highest entry in any competition class. This includes both online and live competitions. For example: If a horse and rider have previously competed at Elementary level, they cannot enter a Prelim level test. They can only enter a class at Elementary and Medium or Novice and Elementary levels. Please see Class Restrictions section for more information.
• Affiliated Horse and Rider combinations: To help ensure a level playing field for all competitors, Horse and Rider combinations registered and affiliated with British Dressage or Dressage Ireland or European equivalents who have Affiliated  points can compete in the Affiliated Riders League Section of any class/event they enter. Therefore, they can compete at the same levels as when riding in affiliated competitions, but in a designated affiliated section.
• Not all leagues/ classes will have an Affiliated section. This will be at Dressage Addict discretion. Affiliated combinations can enter other Open Classes but this will need to be at the level above which they are competing at in Affiliated competitions/ classes.

Good Manners Code:

We expect all members to treat each person associated with Dressage Addict with respect and good manners.  We do not tolerate any harassment, bullying or behaviour that makes any member whether a Rider, Judge or member of the admin team uncomfortable. By registering an account with us and whilst competing and interacting on social media with Dressage Addict, such as  becoming a member of our Dressage Addict Riders Group on Facebook, you agree to abide by our Good Manners Code of Conduct, as outlined here.  We reserve the right to remove any member, who does not abide by our code of conduct, from the website and social media pages.

Class and Event Entries:

• The entry date deadline for all classes and events can be found on the homepage and What’s On page published each month. Entries will not be accepted after midnight on the specified date. This is subject to change and any changes to this date will be published on the website, Facebook community pages.
• Entry fees are paid at time of entry via the check-out process. A confirmation of entry will be sent via email once entry and payment has been received.
• Entry fees will not be refunded once an entry has been accepted, unless in exceptional circumstances. For example, injury to horse or rider resulting in them being unable to compete.  In these circumstances we can offer you the option to move your entry to the subsequent month through our Jump Over Option. There is a small administrative fee charged for this.  This is only available up to midnight on the closing date for entries of the current month.  Please contact us at: office@dressageaddict.co.uk if you may need to utilise this option or have any queries relating to this.
• Entry fees will be refunded if we have to cancel an event due to circumstances beyond our control. Riders will be given the option to move their entry to a different event, carry over the entry to the subsequent month or receive a refund in these circumstances.
• Dressage Addict reserves the right to refuse an entry without expressing a reason.
• Submission of Videos: All entries must be uploaded in video format by 5pm on the date stated on the homepage and What’s On pages that are published each month.
• Entries cannot be received after this time and no refunds will be granted. This is subject to change and if for any reason the video upload deadline changes this will be notified via the website and Facebook pages.
• December Dates for entries and results will be notified on the website, entry confirmation and Facebook Page.

For guidance on uploading videos, please see our guide to getting started

If using YouTube ensure you check the settings are set to Unlisted if you wish to keep the video private.

 Remember:

• Once the video entry has been uploaded it cannot be deleted and a replacement video cannot be uploaded.
• If a mistake has been made in submitting the entry then contact: office@dressageaddict.co.uk and we will do our best to resolve the issue with you.

Videos of Tests:

• Videos of tests from other competitions cannot be used. If the video has already been judged in another competition it cannot be submitted as an entry for Dressage Addict.
• If a video if is found to be edited or to have been submitted for any other dressage competition we reserve the right to refuse the entry without refund (mark as eliminated)
• All videos should be filmed from ‘C’ (Please see the “Top Tips for filming your Test” section below) 
• The video needs to be filmed whilst holding the phone in landscape. If submitted in portrait then 2 penalty marks will be deducted from the overall score.
• The Rider and Horse need to be kept in the centre of the screen.
• No instruction/training guidance is permitted during filming. If there is a suspicion that a rider is receiving instruction/ training guidance during the filming of their test they will be eliminated from the class.
• A Caller is allowed.
• Sound must be on during filming. Videos submitted without sound will be marked for feedback only, the rider and horse will not be awarded a place, Smart Rider points or League points.
• No editing or cutting of videos is permitted – the whole test must be filmed as one take. If there is a suspicion that a video has been edited or cut then the entry will be eliminated from the class.
• Videos should start at least 5 seconds before first movement EG: enter at A. Filming should end after the end of the test allowing a minimum of 5 seconds after the final Halt.
• Movements will not be marked by the judge if they are not recorded. EG: due to being out of view, or if poor lighting makes it difficult to see the movement clearly on the video.
• Freestyle to Music videos – music must be played clearly at the time the video is filmed. It must not be added afterwards. This is classed as editing and is not acceptable practice.
• A video can only be submitted once – other than for exceptions below
• For team or rider reward entry you may resubmit the class entry of your choice for the current month prior to it being judged.
• Where the same Test is ridden for two different classes, you may use the same test video. You must state the classes the video is for in the introduction.
• You cannot resubmit a video from a previous month.
  If there is any suspicion that a video has been submitted more than once eg: same video on consecutive months for the same class/ test – this will result in an elimination.

Introduction of Your Test when filming:

• All tests must have a verbal introduction – Stating the submission is for Dressage Addict, Rider’s Name, Horse’s Name, Month & Year and Test being ridden.
• Where the same Test is ridden for two different classes, you may use the same test video. You must state the classes the video is for in the introduction.
• This can be done by the rider or camera person.
• A deduction of 2 marks as a penalty will be taken off your score if the introduction is not stated to be for Dressage Addict or the Month, Rider’s or Horse’s names are not stated as outlined above.
• If there is any suspicion that a video has been filmed during another competition, edited or submitted for another online competition, then it will not be accepted and you will be eliminated from the class.
• No refund will be provided in this circumstance.

Clothing:

• For safety reasons gloves and correctly fitted riding hat and suitable boots with a small heel must be worn at all times when mounted. Competition clothing is not required.
• 2 penalty marks will be deducted from the test if gloves are not worn.
• Riders will be eliminated if no Riding Hat is worn.
• If when entering the rider’s choice is to wear competition clothing the horse/ pony must wear appropriate boots/ bandages (no knee boots).
• The horse/ pony can wear boots/ bandages if that is the riders preference. (Knee boots are not allowed)

Tack:

• Tack worn by the horse must be aligned to British Dressage rules except in Anything Goes (Any Tack) classes, Charity Classes and Poles Classes.  Follow link for information:

BD Approved Tack & Equipment

• Unless riding in the “Anything Goes League”,  “Charity” and “Fun” eg Poles Classes and “Any Tack Walk” Classes.  Further details on restrictions can be found below.
• Please contact office@dressageaddict.co.uk if you have any questions regarding this.
• If you are wearing BD non-permitted tack then your test will be marked but you will not be included in the placings. League and Smart points will not be awarded in this circumstance. It will be naked for feedback only (HC)
• Side, running, training aids or elasticated reins or exercise sheets are not permitted in any competition class.

Junior Rider – Tack allowances

Junior Riders in all classes are allowed balance reins in line with PC rules as these do not affect the horses way go going.

Any tack rules:

• As the name states any tack can be used in this class – this includes all types of saddles, bareback pads or no saddle at all. A bridle of any type, any bit (including bit rings), bitless, halter or no bridle at all.
• Tack that is not normally allowed in dressage is also allowed, e.g. martingales and grass reins, are allowed but no training aids are allowed. These include but are not limited to draw rides, side reins, de gouge, Market Harborough.
• Driven Entries are also allowed
• In addition exercise sheets are not permitted in any class or league including any tack.
• As per normal classes, any boots are allowed on the horse.
• All aids, including voice are allowed to be used.
• Arenas can be varying in sizes, please state on entry to allow appropriate judging.
• A riding hat, suitable safe footwear and gloves are still required.
• All other rules regarding introductions, filming etc still apply.

In hand/long lining rules:

• A riding hat and gloves are highly recommended but not compulsory.
• A bridle, halter or cavesson are permitted with either one or two lines.
• A saddle, or lunge roller are allowed to help guide long lines, but are not compulsory.
• A whip of any length may be used to help guide the horse but excessive use would be penalised.
• Voice and hand aids can be used.
• When leading – please always lead from the left.Please let us know if this is not possible.
• As per normal classes, any boots are allowed on the horse.
• Arenas can be varying in sizes, please state on entry to allow appropriate judging
• All other rules regarding introductions, filming etc still apply.
• Horses of any age from weanlings upwards are permitted to enter our in hand classes. Please ensure that they are in suitable equipment for their age and level of experience.
• No training aids may be used. These include, but are not limited to; draw reins, side reins, de gogue, Market Harborough etc.

Inclusive League 

• This League is for Riders with both hidden and visible disabilities. The aim is to provide a level playing field for all our riders and give everyone the opportunity to follow their dressage dreams.
• pit helps us if riders share with us their disabilities so we can give appropriate dispensation when judging – but this is not compulsory
• Any Tack is allowed – including adaptations for disability
• Smaller arena allowed – please state on introduction
• Tests must be introduced – however we accept a verbal introduction may not be possible so an image of rider / horse/ test / month & year is allowed.
• Additional assistance appropriate to rider disability is allowed – eg: helper in arena / leader / additional vocal guidance.  If you are not sure please pop us a message we are always happy to help.
• No training aids may be used. These include, but are not limited to; draw reins, side reins, de gogue, Market Harborough etc.
• Riders are welcome to enter any if our classes – just let us know and we will ensure appropriate dispensation is given

Responsibility & Liability

• Dressage Addict take no responsibility or liability for any injury that may occur to either horse or rider, camera person, or any other person involved whilst preparing for, recording or following a video entry. Riders are entering and riding entirely at their own risk.

Results:

• Results will be published on the date outlined on the homepage and What’s On posts, unless otherwise stated on the website, class entry,  or Facebook community pages.
• An email notification will be sent to Riders to inform them that the results & scoresheets are accessible on their Rider Dashboard.
• All results will go live at the same time.
• Full Class results will be  published on the Website on the Results page.
• League Tables are viewable on League Pages on a 3 monthly basis except PYO Classes with different levels the league table will be published separately on Results page for these.
• To qualify for League placings horse & rider combination must enter a minimum of 3 league events on 3 months during the course of the league for a 6 month league.  Where a league is longer it will be stated the minimum number of entries will be specified on the League page 
• Prizes are awarded to the winning competitor in each class. In the event of a tie for first place the decision for awarding first place will be based on the Collective score.
• Classes – When there is a tie on any placing the decision will be based on the collective scores – if collective score is also tied then equal placing will be given.
• Final League placings –
• Rosettes are awarded for 1^st to 8^th
• Class entries will be limited to 30.
• Rosettes and prizes will be posted out. We aim to ensure competitors receive their Rosettes within 10 working days of results being published – please see Terms and Conditions Page for more information.
• The decision of the Judge is final. Competitors are not permitted to communicate with judges or representatives of Dressage Addict regarding results. If a competitor wishes to make an appeal or objection regarding a score or placing in an event or class, this must be submitted to Dressage Addict within 24 hours of the results being published.
• In the event that a mistake is made calculating percentages, please inform Dressage Addict by contacting us via email at: office@dressageaddict.co.uk within 24 hours of your scoresheet being available on your rider account dashboard.

Copyright:

• Dressage Addict will not be responsible or liable for any infringement of copyright laws by any rider or parent/ guardian (if rider under 16) for any video footage, photographs or printed material, music (dressage to music classes) that is submitted by them to Dressage Addict.

Postage:

• There is no postage charge for delivery of Rosettes and prizes for UK based riders.
• For Riders entering from outside the UK you will be charged a nominal fee to cover the additional cost of postage to outside the UK. This cost will be refunded if you are not within the placings and there is no postage cost. We will review our postage policy as we grow to ensure it is fair across the board for everyone. You will need to contact Dressage Addict to request a refund in the event you are not placed.

Class Restrictions:

Please read this carefully to ensure you are entering your Horse and Rider combination at the correct level.

• Once you have started a league you may complete the league period.
• If the Horse and Rider combination fall into a class restriction that is above the level they wish to compete at – you are allowed to enter but your score will be for feedback only (HC). You will not receive Smart points or League points or a placing in the class. The entry will be marked as HC on the results. Please email office@dressageaddict.co.uk if this applies to you or if you are unsure and need guidance.
• If Dressage Addict have reason to believe that any Horse and Rider combination are entering at levels below their capability and experience Dressage Addict reserve the right to make the entry HC.
• Dressage Addict hope that Riders will enter into the spirit of good sportsmanship and enter at correct level for the Horse and Rider combination and give everyone the opportunity to develop and progress fairly through the levels and enjoy the dressage experience.

Horse and Rider Combinations affiliated to British Dressage:

• Where a Horse and Rider combination are affiliated to and have British Dressage points or from their country of residence equivalent body , they are not permitted to enter and compete at Intro levels with Dressage Addict.
• When competing in the Affiliated league horse and rider combinations are not permitted to enter below the levels they compete at with British Dressage or equivalent governing body of their country of residence, .
• This allows the horse and rider combination to continue to compete at the same levels as with British Dressage and supports our philosophy of a level playing field for all.
• For affiliated horse and rider combinations who are eligible and would like to enter the other Classes outside the Affiliated League – they must enter at the level above that they ride at when competing affiliated.  The exception is once they reach Medium level – at this level they can compete at the same level as at affiliated competitions.

Leagues running will vary depending on demand and the discretion of Dressage Addict.  For example: If there is not Restricted Elementary then enter the Open Elementary Class section.

Intro Restricted Classes

• The Horse and Rider combination are not to have scored 65% or over on 3 occasions in an Intro level class or above either in an online or live competition.
• If competing at Intro Restricted Level the Horse and Rider combination are not to be competing at Prelim level.
• When a Horse and Rider combination win an Intro Restricted League or Championship they are expected, and this will be requested, to move up to Intro Open Level. 

Intro Open Classes

• When a Horse and Rider combination win an Intro Open League or Championship they are expected, and this will be requested, to move up to Prelim level.
• In the circumstances that they are unable to do so due to horse capability/ rider preference, they can continue to enter as HC but will not be rewarded Smart points or league points or a placing. They will receive a score and Judge’s feedback only. Please contact us by emailing office@dressageaddict.co.uk if this is relevant to you.

Prelim Restricted Classes

• The Horse and Rider combination are not to have scored 65% or over on three occasions at Prelim Level or above either in an online or live competition.
  The Horse and Rider combination are not to have competed in the past or currently be competing at Novice level either in an online or live competition.
• When a Horse and Rider combination win a Prelim Restricted League or Championship they are expected, and this will be requested, to move up to Prelim Open Level

Prelim Open Classes:

• The Horse and Rider combination are not to have competed in the past or be currently competing at Elementary Level either in an online or live competition.
• If you are an affiliated horse and rider combination you cannot enter this class, unless competing at BD Quest level no higher than Novice level.
• When a Horse and Rider combination win a Prelim Open League or Championship they are expected, and this will be requested, to move up to Novice Level.
• In the circumstances that they are unable to do so due to horse capability/ rider preference, they can continue to enter in the Affiliated section of the D-stressage League. Please contact us by emailingoffice@dressageaddict.co.uk if this is relevant to you.
• Affiliated combinations competing at Prelim level need to enter the Affiliated Class or can enter any classes at Novice Open upwards.

Prelim Affiliated Classes:

• This is for Horse & Rider Combinations who are affiliated to British Dressage or their country of residence equivalent body and have points. Or for combinations who have won the league or championship but due to personal preference/ capability of horse wish to continue to compete at this level. Affiliated Class Sections are run in the D-stressage league.

Novice Restricted Classes

• The Horse and Rider combination are not to have scored 65% or over on three occasions at Novice Level  either in an online or live competition. The Horse and Rider combination are not to have competed in the past or currently be competing at Elementary level or above.
• When a Horse and Rider combination win a Novice Restricted League or Championship they are expected, and this will be requested, to move up to Novice Open Level.
• BD Quest may enter the Novice Open Class or the Affiliated league Novice Section.
• Affiliated combinations are not permitted to enter the restricted class.  If you are competing at Affiliated Prelim level you need to enter the Novice Open class.

Novice Open Classes

• The Horse and Rider combination are not to have competed previously or currently be competing at Medium Level or above either in online or live competition.
• For affiliated horse and rider combinations you can only enter this class if you are not competing above Prelim affiliated level with British Dressage or your country of residence equivalent body.
• When a Horse and Rider combination win a Novice Open League or Championship they are expected, and this will be requested, to move up to Elementary Level.
• In the circumstances that they are unable to do so due to horse capability/ rider preference, they can continue to enter in the Elite section of the D-stressage League. Please contact us by emailing office@dressageaddict.co.uk  if this is relevant to you.
• BD Quest may enter the Novice Open Class or the Affiliated league Novice Section.
• Affiliated combinations can enter the Novice Open Class providing this is at a level above the one they compete at when entering Affiliated classes or events.

Novice Affiliated Classes

• This is for Horse & Rider Combinations who are affiliated to British Dressage or their country of residence equivalent  and have points. Or for combinations who have won the league or championship but due to personal preference/ capability of horse wish to continue to compete at this level. Affiliated Class Sections are run in the D-Stressage league.

Elementary Restricted Classes

• The Horse and Rider combination are not to have scored 65% or over on three occasions at Elementary Level or above in an online or live competition.  The Horse and Rider combination are not to have competed in the past or currently be competing at Medium level or above either in online or live competition.
• When a Horse and Rider combination win an Elementary Restricted League or Championship they are expected, and this will be requested, to move up to Elementary Open Level.
• Affiliated combinations are not permitted to enter the restricted class

Elementary Open Classes

• The Horse and Rider combination are not to be competing currently or previously competed at Advanced Medium Level or above either in online or live competition.
• For affiliated horse and rider combinations you can only enter this class if you are competing at Prelim or novice affiliated level with British Dressage or your country of residence equivalent body.
• When a Horse & Rider combination win an Elementary Open League or Championship are expected, and this will be requested, to move up to Medium level.
• In the circumstances that they are unable to do so due to horse capability/ rider preference, they can continue to enter in the Affiliated section of the D-stressage League. Please contact us by emailing office@dressageaddict.co.ukif this is relevant to you.
• Affiliated combinations can enter the Elementary Open Class providing this is at a level above the one they compete at when entering Affiliated classes or events.

PYO Prelim/Novice/ ELEM/ Med / Adv Med Affiliated Class

• This is for horse & Rider Combinations who are affiliated to British Dressage or their country of residence equivalent body and have points. Or for combinations who have won the league or championship but due to personal preference/ capability of horse wish to continue to compete at this level. Affiliated Class Sections are run in the D-Stressage league.
• When a Horse and Rider combination win an open League or Championship they  will be requested to move up a level.

Cobs Can Dance Leagues

• These are run as Open leagues. They are open to Cob breeds of all types and Cob Crosses. Affiliated Combinations can enter these Classes but they must enter at the level above which they compete at Affiliated competitions.  The Exception being once they reach Medium Level they can compete at the same level as when competing affiliated.