R u l e s H a n d b o ok

Transcription

1 R u l e s H a n d b o ok Effe c t i v e D at e 1 s t De c e m ber

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3 Contents Page Section 1 Membership & Horse Registration Agreement to be bound by the rules 6 Acceptance of rules 6 British Dressage membership 6 Age of members 7 Class tickets 7 Horse/ pony registration 7 Age of horse/ pony 8 Ponies/ height certificates 9 Equine Influenza vaccination 9 Limitations on competing 10 Section 2 Grading of Riders and Horses Grading of riders 12 Down Grouping of riders 12 Restricted and Open sections 13 Eligibility to compete 14 Training sections 15 Foreign riders domiciled in the UK and national classes 15 Grades of horses 15 Grading points 15 Imported horses 16 Downgrading horses 16 Horse Assessment 17 Grading of horses training or competing abroad 17 Section 3 Competitions and Entries Introductory classes 18 Preliminary classes 18 Unaffiliated competitions 18 Pick Your Own classes 18 Associated competitions 18 British Dressage tests 18 Freestyle tests 20 Freestyle to music 20 Availability of tests 21 Organiser s rights 21 Opening dates and close of entries 21 Entries 21 Balloting 22 Waiting lists 22 Withdrawals 22 Refund of entry fees 23 Hors Concours 23 Prize money 23 Rosettes 24 Prize givings 24 Page Section 4 Competitor Dress and Saddlery Dress 26 Coats/ jackets 26 Body protectors 26 Hats 26 Breeches/ jodphurs 27 Gloves 27 Boots 27 Spurs 27 Whips 28 Union flag pocket badge 28 Saddles 28 Saddle cloths flags 29 Logos & manufacturers marks 29 Bridles 29 Nosebands 30 Bitguards 30 Other tack 30 Decoration 30 Fly Fringes, gauzes and ear covers 30 Stallions 30 Tack while warming up 31 Lungeing 31 Warming up 31 Bits snaffles 32 Under 21 classes 33 Bits Double bridle 33 Quick guide to BD rules 36 Section 5 The Arena and Performing the test Arena layout 38 Markers 39 Inspection of arenas 39 Competitors conduct 40 Competitors responsibility 40 Riding the wrong test 40 Numbers 40 Riding in the collecting ring or practice arena 40 Commanders 40 Outside assistance 41 Penalties for contravening rules 41 Bit checking 41 Entering arena before the signal to start 41 Execution of test 42 Dispensation 42 Salute 42 Sitting and rising 43 Leaving the arena 43 Contents 3

4 Contents Page Dismounting and/or fall of rider/ horse 43 Resistance 43 Grinding teeth and tail swishing 43 Voice 43 Errors of course 43 Penalties for errors of course 44 Errors of the test 44 Time 44 Lameness 44 Scoring method 44 Scale of marks 45 Judges sheets 45 Judges decision final 45 Cautions 45 Objections 46 Section 6 Judges Appointment and deselection 48 Foreign judges 48 Positioning of judges 48 Judges restrictions 48 Standards at which judges may officiate 49 Special rules for Qualifiers and Area Festivals 49 Duration of judging 50 Section 7 Qualifying and Championships Eligibility 52 Cut off dates 53 Area Festivals 54 Regional and Championship qualification 56 Special rules for the Offshore Islands 60 Freestyle to Music qualifiers 60 Wellington Music qualifiers 61 Qualification from Regionals to National/Winter 61 Championships wild cards and allocation Potential International Dressage Horse 62 Championship qualifying classes General rules relating to all Young Horse classes 62 BD Young Dressage Horse Championships 63 British Young Horse Championships at Hickstead 63 The Sheepgate British Dressage U25 s 63 Championships Senior Home International competition 64 BYRDS Home International competition 65 Senior Inter Regional competition 66 BYRDS Inter Regional competition 66 Scottish Championship and qualification 68 Welsh Championship and qualification 68 Page Section 8 Rules for Para Equestrian Grouping of Para Riders 70 Para Equestrian Dressage competitions for riders 70 with classification of I IV Visually impaired riders B1 grade III 71 Visually impaired riders B2 grade IV 71 Horses used for Para Equestrian competitions 71 Para Equestrian Championships 72 KBIS National Championships 72 Para Equestrian Summer Championship held at 72 Hickstead Para Equestrian Winter Championships 72 Para Equestrian Home International Competition 73 Para dressage tests in use 73 Annexes Annex 1 Welfare of the horse 74 Annex 2 Quick reference guide to penalties for 78 contravening rules Annex 3 Members code of conduct 80 Annex 4 Disciplinary procedure 82 Annex 5 Judge complaints procedure 86 Annex 6 Equine & Human anti doping 88 Annex 7 Dressage definitions 90 Annex 8 Child Protection and equal opportunities 108 Annex 9 Music licence 112 Annex 10 Specific rules relating to the FEI 113 Annex 11 Members insurance 114 British Dressage Contacts 119 Index 120 4

5 a) In all respects the welfare of the horse is paramount. Please see the FEI code of conduct for the welfare of the horse in the annexes. b) The Directors of British Dressage (BD) are responsible for all matters connected with Dressage. BD office staff are located at Meriden Business Park and all correspondence should be addressed to: British Dressage, Building 2020, Meriden Business Park, Copse Drive, Meriden, West Midlands, CV5 9RG. c) Affiliated Dressage Competitions are those held under the rules contained in this book. Their schedules are distributed in the publication British Dressage and on d) These rules are intended principally for use in connection with National Dressage Competitions, relating to all competitions affiliated to BD. However, the Rules do not only relate to National Competitions; some rules, particularly with regard to conduct and discipline, are effective at all times and in any circumstance with regard to BD members. Introduction e) Every eventuality cannot be provided for in these Rules. In any unforeseen or exceptional circumstances the relevant officials have a duty to make a decision in a sporting spirit, approaching as near as possible the intention of these Rules and to protect the reputation of the sport of dressage in the UK and the welfare of the horse. f) As this is a major revision to the Rules, additions and amendments are not highlighted. Further amendments or changes to the rules in this book may be published in British Dressage (which is published 8 times per year), the website, show organisers or officials newsletter or letter, note, fax signed by a member of staff. Failure to comply with any published rule changes will be considered a breach of these rules. g) Only queries relating to this rule book that are submitted and answered in writing by an authorised member of staff will be binding on BD. h) Any member who wishes to appeal a decision of BD, the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive or the Disciplinary Sub Committee, must apply to the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) Appeals Panel, except where BD provides for an alternative appeal procedure. i) Appellants are to lodge their notice of appeal within 7 days of receiving notification of the relevant decision. In the event that anyaber is dissatisfied with the BEF Appeals Panel s decision, the matter may be referred to Sports Resolutions (UK). Cover picture courtesy of Nicola Elliot 5

6 Section 1 Membership & Horse Registration Section 1 Membership & Horse Registration 1. Agreement to be bound by the rules a) All members of British Dressage (BD) are bound by the Memorandum and Articles of BD, together with the rules, regulations and bye laws made under them. Decisions of the Board and other delegated authorities of BD in connection with the rules, regulations and bye laws are final and binding. Members are responsible for ensuring they are familiar with the Rules. b) The Rules and Annexes contained in this book are in force at the date of publication. Any amendments by BD are enforceable on the date of publication (unless otherwise stated in the notice of amendment), provided that notice of such amendment is published in one or more of the following media: British Dressage Magazine Show Organisers and Officials Newsletters British Dressage Website c) By signing an Affiliation Agreement, Show Organisers are bound by all BD rules, regulations and bye laws and any published Code of Conduct. Additionally, they agree to abide by and observe the decisions of the Board and delegated authorities and committees of BD. Show Organisers are responsible for ensuring that they are familiar with the Rules, Code of Conduct and any amendments made to them. d) It is understood and agreed by members that any photographs (and/ or film footage) taken at a BD affiliated show or activity by an official photographer may be used by BD for security and/or promotional purposes without payment. Under 18s consent will be covered by the photo consent form contained in the BD Child Protection Policy. 2. Acceptance of rules Becoming a member of BD and making an entry for an affiliated dressage competition constitutes acceptance of these Rules. Owners and riders must ensure that horses and riders are eligible to compete in the classes for which they are entered. Any dispensation from these Rules is only valid if in writing. 3. British Dressage membership Only members of BD may ride in affiliated competitions or register as the owner of a horse/pony, except for those entering using a class ticket or where the class permits to ride with associate membership. Applications for membership are to be made on the approved form and submitted to the BD office. They may also be made online at Applications must be accompanied by the appropriate fee. BD reserves the right to decline any application for, or renewal of, membership without stating a cause. Only members of BD and organisers of affiliated competitions are covered by the insurances provided by BD (see annexes for full details). 6

7 BD subscriptions run for twelve months from the date of joining, except for Eventers BD membership and BRC membership which run from 1st October 31st March. Music membership entitles riders to compete in freestyle to music qualifiers with a registered or associate registered horse. Horses must be fully registered to compete in Music Regional Championships. All riders competing in freestyle to music competitions must sign a PPL licence. Eventers BD membership is only available to those who are currently members of British Eventing (BE). It is assumed that the owners of eventing horses competing in BD classes will also be BE members. If BE membership lapses during the time of registration as an Eventing BD member the insurance cover from BE becomes invalid. Pony Club membership only entitles members to compete in Preliminary classes. Those with a Pony Club membership who qualify for an Area Festival or Regional Championship must upgrade to a full member in order to compete. 4. Age of members There is no upper or lower age limit. Members are responsible for ensuring they are fit to compete. 5. Class tickets BD members on non registered horses, and non members on registered or nonregistered horses can purchase class tickets at 8 each. Each ticket enables them to enter one affiliated class. Holders of class tickets must also pay the entry fees and are subject to the BD Rule Book. Class tickets may be used at any level provided the rider is eligible to compete in the class entered. Those riding on a class ticket are eligible to win prize money and rosettes but will not earn grading points or qualify for Championships other than Area Festivals. Riders must be associate members to compete in Introductory or Preliminary open sections, and their horse must hold an associate horse registration. Should they wish to compete in Preliminary restricted sections the rider must be a member or compete on a class ticket. Section 1 Membership & Horse Registration 6. Horse/Pony registration Before competing in an affiliated dressage competition, a horse or pony must be registered with BD (except for Introductory and Preliminary open classes where horses may have an associate horse registration). There is no lower height limit for registration but horses/ponies must be four years old or over to compete. BD reserves the right to refuse registration. For Preliminary restricted, Music, Young Horse and Para classes, horses must be registered either fully or with associate horse registration. The latter is free of charge and allows BD to record a horse s details and results. An Associate member may register an associate horse. 7

8 Section 1 Membership & Horse Registration Full registration for horses and ponies runs for 12 months from the date of registration (with the exception of Eventers BD and BRC membership). If a horse s registration has lapsed for more than one month, any points or qualifications gained since lapsing will not be allocated. A horse that has been subject to a loss of use insurance claim may be registered provided that it is sound and sufficiently fit for competition. The legal owner/s of horses and ponies registered with BD must also be members of BD because, where the stated owner of a registered horse/pony is not the legal owner, this could invalidate the liability insurance under the BD policy. Registrations are accepted on the understanding that the person making the registration is the bona fide owner, part owner or authorised agent of the horse or pony registered. BD accepts no responsibility in cases of disputed ownership, which must be settled by the parties concerned. BD may suspend registration of the horse or pony until such time as the dispute over ownership is settled. Horses/Ponies must be registered with the same name as the name shown on their registered national breed society or FEI passport. The only exceptions are as follows: The name of the horse/pony can be changed if the name on its passport is formally changed by the issuing authority; the owner must send the relevant pages of the new amended passport to BD for verification. The fee for change of name is 30. A horse registered with a different name to that on the passport prior to the implementation of this rule in 2010 may keep the registered name. However, if the owner wishes to change the registered name to match the name on its passport, this can be changed free of charge. If the horse/pony s name has not been entered on its national breed society passport the owner can choose the horse/pony s name, enter it direct onto the passport and inform the passport issuing body of its name. This name will be linked to the horse/pony s unique identification number shown on its passport. A suitable prefix or suffix (not shown in the horse/pony s passport) may be added for a fee of 30. If the horse/pony is subsequently registered with the FEI, the chosen prefix may not be permitted and the horse/pony must be named according to FEI rules. If a horse/pony changes ownership/sponsorship the prefix/suffix can be removed and the horse/pony can revert back to its original name unless the national breed society passport has also been changed. There is no charge for this. 8

9 7. Age of horse/pony The age of a horse/pony is taken from 1st January in the year in which it was born. The minimum age from which a horse may compete is 4 years old. Horses competing at PSG level and above must be at least 7 years old. Horses competing at Grand Prix must be at least 8 years old. 8. Ponies/Height Certificates Ponies may be registered and compete on equal terms with horses in all affiliated competitions, with a rider of any age. Grading points will be awarded in the normal manner. Ponies are not required to obtain FEI Height Certificates for their FEI Passports. However, ponies must have current JMB Height Certificates for National competitions. Riders should ensure that their ponies are used to being measured and within the current height limit, as they are liable to be measured if they travel to International competitions, and will be measured at the Pony European Championships. Ponies which attend Pony Squad training will be measured by the Team Vet at one or more of their sessions. Copies of valid Height Certificates for all ponies entered for Selection Trials must be submitted with their entries. 9. Equine Influenza Vaccination A valid passport must accompany the horse to all competitions and be produced on request; failure to comply is a disciplinary offence and will debar the horse from competing at the event for which it has been entered. A horse will not be permitted to compete unless it has a current vaccination against equine influenza which complies with the following conditions: An initial course of two injections for primary vaccination, not less than 21 days and not more than 92 days apart, are required before being eligible to compete; A first booster injection must be given between 150 and 215 days after the second injection of primary vaccination; Section 1 Membership & Horse Registration Subsequent booster injections must be given at intervals of not more than one calendar year, commencing after the first booster injection. The full course or booster must have been administered at least 7 days before the competition. The Record of Vaccination(s) in the horse s passport, in which the record of injection(s) is completed, signed and stamped line by line, must be completed by an appropriate veterinary surgeon (who is neither the owner nor the rider of the horse). For those competing under FEI rules please refer to the FEI rules. 9

10 Section 1 Membership & Horse Registration 10. Limitations on competing Horses that are suspected of suffering from infectious or contagious diseases, or have been in contact with other animals suffering from such diseases, and horses which are not free from infectious or contagious diseases, or come from places or establishments which are not free from such diseases, are not permitted to take part in any BD event.. Mares may not compete after their fourth month of pregnancy or with a foal at foot. The rider is responsible for ensuring that their horse is fit to compete, including horses subject to a loss of use claim. 10

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12 Section 2 Grading of Riders and Horses Section 2 Grading of Riders and Horses 11. Grading of riders Riders will be graded in the following groups (also see rules relating to down grouping): Group 1 Riders who have competed in a CDI abroad or in any CDIO or CDIW after 1 st January 2000 except those who have competed on borrowed horses (eg, Sydney CDI). Group 1 riders may not compete in Novice and Elementary qualifiers. Group 2a Riders who have won point(s) at Grand Prix or who have competed in Big or Small Tour in a UK based CDI after 1 st January 2000 (except Group 1). Group 2a riders may not compete in Novice qualifiers. Any U25 rider who competes in FEI GP will become Group 2a. Should the rider compete in this class abroad, and also compete in any Senior CDI class, that rider will automatically become Group 1. Group 2 Riders who have won point(s) at Inter I and above in National Classes after 1 st January 2000 (except Groups 1 & 2a). Group 3 Riders who have won points at PSG level or above (including FEI Young Rider classes) since 1 st January 2000 (except Groups 1 2). Additionally, riders may claim Group 3 status in order to ride at PSG, having gained 62% or above in Advanced 102 or 105 or FEI YR level tests in the previous 12 months. U21 Riders may compete in the FEI YR level tests without having claimed their Group 3 status. Such claims may be made by writing to the BD Office, and will take effect once the member has received notification of their upgrade. Group 4 Riders who have won more than 14 points at Advanced Medium level or any points at the levels above (including FEI Junior classes), after 1 st January 2000 (except Groups 1 3). Group 5 Riders who have won more than 14 points at Medium level or any points at the levels above (including FEI Pony classes) after 1 st January 2000 (except Groups 1 4). Group 6 Riders who have won more than 14 points at Elementary level or any points at the levels above after 1 st January 2000 (except Groups 1 5). Group 7 Riders who have won more than 14 points at Novice level or any points at the levels above after 1 st January 2000 (except Groups 1 6). Group 8 All other riders. All Pony, Junior and Young Riders regardless of their age will adhere to the same rules as a Senior Group 1 rider if they compete in a Senior International CDI, CDIO, CDI W, Small Tour or Big Tour (UK or abroad). This does not apply to Under 21 riders competing in CDIs at Pony, Junior and Young Rider level. 12. Down Grouping of Riders a) Riders who have not competed at or above a specific level (including British Eventing) for four years or more may apply to the BD office in writing to down group by one level. 12

13 b) Riders who have won fewer than 15 points at a specific level prior to 1st December 2007 may be eligible to move to a lower rider group. Riders may only down group by one level. Cumulative points over more than one level will not be taken into account. Members should apply to the BD office so that their competition record can be checked and rider group amended where applicable. 13. Restricted and Open sections Restricted and Open sections are offered so that less experienced riders who have just started competing at a given level can compete against similarly inexperienced riders in the Restricted section. The Group into which each rider is placed is determined by their experience at each level of competition. The rider group then determines whether they may compete in the Restricted sections of classes as set out below. Restricted section riders may gain 14 points at the next higher level before having to ride in the open section at the level below. For example, a Group 7 rider will be able to gain 14 points at Elementary before becoming Group 6 and therefore having to ride in the Novice Open section. This applies to all levels from Novice to Medium. At Advanced Medium, riders may gain unlimited points at advanced level and retain eligibility to ride in the Restricted section. Those who wish to compete at PSG must be Group 3 and must ride in the Advanced Medium Open section. Classes from Preliminary to Advanced Medium will be divided into Open and Restricted sections. Organisers are to offer both sections when running a class at a level where Open/Restricted sections apply. At Preliminary only those in the Restricted qualifier section are eligible to qualify for National/Winter Championships. There is no championship for Open Preliminary. At Preliminary level At Novice level At Elementary level Riders are eligible for Restricted sections if they have won no more than 14 points at Elementary level or any points at the levels above since 1 st January Riders are eligible for Restricted sections if they have won no more than 14 points at Elementary level or any points at the levels above since 1 st January Riders may enter the Restricted section if they have won no more than 14 points at Medium level or any points at the levels above since 1 st January Section 2 Grading of Riders and Horses At Medium level At Advanced Medium level Riders may enter the Restricted section if they have won no more than 14 points at Advanced Medium level or any points at the levels above since 1 st January Riders may enter the Restricted section if they have won no points at PSG or above since 1 st January 2000 and they do not wish to use Advanced points to claim Group 3 status in order to compete at PSG. a) Those riding a downgraded horse must compete in the Open section up to the level from which the horse was downgraded. b) U21 riders who have accepted nomination for a potential place at a CDI must compete in the open section at the level for which they are eligible. 13

14 Section 2 Grading of Riders and Horses c) BD and BE riders awarded a Union Flag must ride in the Open section (with the exception of Para Equestrian Dressage riders). As soon as the Union Flag is awarded, any qualifications already gained in Restricted sections are to be transferred to Open sections. d) Any rider who has competed at BE Advanced horse trials since 1 st January 2000 may not be below a group 5 rider. e) A rider who has competed at BE Intermediate horse trials since 1 st January 2000 may not be below Group 6. f) Foreign riders and those who have spent more than 12 months abroad will be no lower than Group 3 upon registration unless BD grants dispensation. g) Those with a BHSI or FBHS qualification will be no lower than Group 5 upon registration. Riders must state the section they are entering for every class; if not stated, they will be put in the Open section. Riders may not change section once a class has started. 14. Eligibility to compete Group 1 Open Section (non qualifier only) Open Section Group 2A Open Section (non qualifier only) Open Section Groups 2 & 3 Open Section Group 4 Open Section Either Section Group 5 Open Section Either Section Group 6 Open Section Either Section Groups 7 & 8 Either Section Qualifying Section Preliminary to Elementary Medium & Advanced Medium Preliminary and Novice Elementary to Advanced Medium Preliminary to Advanced Medium Preliminary to Medium Advanced Medium Preliminary to Elementary Medium to Advanced Medium Preliminary Elementary to Advanced Medium Preliminary to Advanced Medium Preliminary Points won by a Group 1 or Group 2a rider may not count as a part qualification for Novice and/or Elementary classes for the horse concerned. Foreign riders allocated to Group 3 by default must qualify for PSG by achieving a score of 62% or more in Advanced 102 or 105. If any rider receives a score below 50% in a class at PSG or above they may not compete at these levels again until they have achieved a score of 62% or more in Advanced 102 or

15 15. Training sections Training sections are open to members on registered or associate registered horses; nonmembers may enter with class tickets. Both horse and rider must be eligible under BD Rules for the levels entered. Score sheets gained cannot be used for qualification to Summer or Winter Regional Championships, however, they may be used to qualify for Area Festivals. No grading points will be given and the results will not affect rider status. No Prize money or rosettes will be awarded. BD Rules apply to Training sections. 16. Foreign riders domiciled in the UK and/or competing in national classes Riders who wish to maintain their eligibility to ride for their own country may compete in Qualifiers and Championships but even though they may win the Grand Prix Championship classes they will not become The National Champion and will not be awarded sashes, rosettes or prize money. Foreign riders competing at other levels at the National Championships may be awarded first place sashes, rosettes and prize money. Foreign riders competing in the UK require permission to compete from their National Federation; this must be submitted to the BD office upon registration. Riders with passports from Eire are considered to be foreign. 17. Grades of horses Horses may compete only at the level they are graded or higher. The upper points limit for each grade is as follows: Preliminary Novice Elementary Medium Advanced Medium Advanced & Above 49 points 124 points 199 points 299 points 425 points Open to any horse There are additional limits for classes qualifying for National Championships and restrictions on horses which have started at Intermediate I and above. See Rules for Qualifying and Championships for each level. Ponies ridden by riders of 16 years and under may continue to compete at Medium level once 299 points are achieved but must compete in the Open section FEI Pony tests carry grading points equivalent to medium level classes therefore riders gaining more than 14 points will become a group 5 rider. Section 2 Grading of Riders and Horses 18. Grading points Horses are graded on a points system. Points will be awarded against the percentage achieved in accordance with the scales below: % 1 point % 2 points % 3 points % 4 points % 5 points % 6 points 72.00% and above 7 points 15

16 Section 2 Grading of Riders and Horses Horses obtaining the percentages shown in the grading points table will be allocated points regardless of place and prize money. However, points are not awarded for Introductory and Preliminary classes, Music classes and all Young Horse classes. For Preliminary Restricted classes Prelim Points will be allocated to the same scale as all other classes. Prelim Points are for qualification purposes only and do not count towards the upgrading of a horse. Grading queries can only be dealt with in writing and within twelve months of the relevant competition. 19. Imported horses Before an imported horse can be registered with BD, its owners must supply proof of age at import, ie, official import documents or the record of a vaccination administered in the UK. For the purpose of registration, horses foaled in Northern Ireland and Eire are classified as British. Horses imported to the UK via Ireland will be awarded points according to their age upon entry to Ireland (proof of import must be provided) or, if they have competed under Dressage Ireland rules, a full competition record must be submitted so that BD points can be allocated accordingly. An imported horse which has been registered with BE for at least one year and has a competition record will be exempt from importation rules. Initially, imported horses will be graded according to their age at the time of registration to the scale given in the table unless proof of import at an earlier age can be supplied. These points may be reduced by Downgrading or by Assessment. 4 year old 0 points 5 year old 45 points 6 year old 160 points 7 year old 260 points 8 year old 400 points 9 year old 435 points 10 year old 450 points 20. Downgrading horses Any horse may be downgraded once per twelve month period subject to the restrictions below. Applications should be made to the British Dressage Office and, for a fee of 60; the horse will be re graded according to the following table. Rider Group Group 8 & 7 Group 6 Group 5 Group 4 Group 3 Points the horse will be allocated 45 points 125 points 200 points 300 points 426 points 16

17 Restrictions apply to horses which have competed at Inter I GP levels. Any such horse is not eligible to compete in qualifiers at lower levels unless it has been downgraded, regardless of its actual points total. BD record the previous points for all downgraded horses. Downgrading applies to an individual horse/rider combination; it is only maintained if the horse is competed by another rider at the same group (or lower) as the rider who downgraded the horse, whilst still registered to the downgrading owner. For example, a horse downgraded by a Group 7 rider will only maintain its downgraded status if competed by another Group 7 or 8 rider, or a rider of an equivalent Group if the downgrading rider upgrades. If the horse is sold, or a rider of a higher grade competes it, the horse s points will revert to the highest number of points the horse has ever had on its record. A horse can only be downgraded once it has gone over the upper points limit for that level. Eg a novice horse can only be downgraded once it has reached 125 points or more. Downgraded horses must be ridden in the Open section, up to the level from which they have been downgraded regardless of rider group. Horses may be ridden in qualifiers once they have been formally downgraded. Once a horse has been downgraded it loses any qualification that it has previously earned. A horse may be de downgraded for a fee of 10 and will revert back to its highest ever points total (provided this total is higher than its current points). 21. Horse Assessment If the owner wishes an imported horse s level of training to be assessed, this must be done between first registration and the first competition entry. He/she must contact the BD Office to make an appointment for the horse to be assessed. An assessed horse does not carry the restrictions imposed by downgrading. The cost of assessment is 75. Assessors are not to assess horses that are known to them, eg horses the assessor has previously seen in a training or purchasing/selling context. 22. Grading of horses training or competing abroad Horses which go abroad and compete in National competitions will be classed as imported horses for grading purposes if they return to the UK. However, if a full competition record for that horse from the foreign federation is presented to BD, only the appropriate number of points according to results achieved will be added to the points the horse had when it left the UK. Section 2 Grading of Riders and Horses 17

18 Section 3 Competitions and Entries Section 3 Competitions and Entries 23. Introductory classes Introductory classes are open to members or associate members in groups 7 & 8 on registered and associate registered horses with no grading points. Grading points will not be awarded for Introductory classes and sheets gained in these classes cannot be used for qualification. 24. Preliminary classes The Open section of Preliminary Classes is open to members or associate members on registered or associate registered horses, horse not to have gained more than 49 BD points. Those competing in the open section do not qualify for the Winter or Summer Regional Championships. The Restricted section of Preliminary Classes is for those who are eligible to qualify for the Summer and Winter Regional Championships, ie members of BD who are groups 7 or 8, riding registered or associate registered horses with no more than 49 BD points. Preliminary Restricted sections classes carry Prelim points which are used for qualification purposes only and do not affect the horses grade. Full horse registration is required for the Winter/Summer Regional Championships and Area Festivals. 25. Unaffiliated competitions If an unaffiliated class is run at an affiliated show, the class must be run and judged separately from any equivalent affiliated class. If there are fewer than ten riders in either section, the class may be mixed, but organisers should endeavour to keep the sections separate whenever possible. Unaffiliated classes run as part of an affiliated show must be run under BD rules in all respects in order to be covered by BD insurance. 26. Pick Your Own classes (PYO) Certain classes may be designated as PYO by an organiser. They will only be open to members of BD riding registered horses or to those with class tickets. They may cover more than one level with the schedule stipulating the test to be ridden eg. PYO PSG GP. Classes are judged on a percentage basis. PYO classes only count as non qualifying classes in relation to qualifying points. 27. Associated competitions These competitions are open to members and non members of BD but may be restricted in some way, for instance to horses in a certain stud book. They are run under BD rules and may give whatever prize money they choose. Their schedules must be included in the schedules section in British Dressage and they will be liable for the 2.00 levy per competitor although no grading points will be given and classes will not count as qualifiers for the BD Championships. 28. British Dressage tests Introductory level Introductory A (2008) Short Introductory B (2009) Short Preliminary level No. 1 (2006) Short No. 4 (2002) Short No. 7 (2002) Short No. 12 (2005) Short No. 13 (2006) Short* No. 14 (2006) Short* No. 15 (2008) Long* No. 18 (2002) Short No. 17 (2014) Long* No. 19 (2008) Long* 18

19 Novice level No. 22 (2007) Long No. 23 (2012) Long No. 24 (2010) Short No. 27 (2007) Short No. 28 (2008) Short Elementary level No. 40 (2010) Long No. 42 (2008) Short No. 43 (2006) Long No. 44 (2002) Short No. 45 (2010) Long Medium level No. 61 (2002) Long No. 63 (2002) Short No. 69 (2005) Long No. 30 (2006) Short* No: 34 (2009) Short* No. 37 (2007) Long* No. 38 (2005) Long* No. 39 (2010) Long* No: 49 (2009) Short* No. 50 (2007) Short* No. 53 (2007) Long* No. 57 (2007) Long* No. 59 (2010) Long* No. 71 (2002) Short* No. 73 (2007) Long* No. 75 (2002) Long* Advanced Medium level No: 85 (2009) Long (FEI Junior Prelim) No. 94 (2002) Long No: 90 (2012) Short* No. 96 (2011) Long (FEI Junior Individual) No. 92 (2011) Long (FEI Junior Team)* No. 98 (2002) Long* No. 93 (2004) Short* Advanced level No. 100 (2002) Long No. 102 (2012) Long No. 105 (2011) Long (FEI Young Rider Prelim) BD Intermediate II 2014 (long arenas) (not an FEI test)* Tests highlighted with a * will be the only tests used for qualifiers. It is still permissible for these tests to be used in non qualifying classes. Section 3 Competitions and Entries FEI tests (long arenas) FEI Young Rider Individual (No. 108 (2011) PSG Standard) FEI PSG (2009)* FEI Grand Prix (2009)* FEI Intermediate I (2009)* FEI Grand Prix Special (2009) FEI Intermediate II (2009)* FEI Olympic Grand Prix Special (2012) FEI U21 tests FEI Pony Preliminary, Team and Individual Tests (2012), Freestyle (2009) FEI Junior Preliminary, Team and Individual Tests (2009), Freestyle (2009) FEI Young Rider Preliminary, Team and Individual (2009), Freestyle (2009) FEI Grand Prix 16 25* 19

20 Section 3 Competitions and Entries Freestyle tests Introductory (2012) short arena Preliminary (2012) long arena Novice (2012) long arena Elementary (2012) long arena Medium (2012) long arena Advanced Medium (2012) long arena Prix St Georges (FEI YR Freestyle) (2009) long arena FEI Intermediate I (2009) long arena FEI Grand Prix (2009) long arena Young horse tests BD Basic Test 4 year old (YHB4 2003) BD Novice Young Horse Test for 5 yr (YHN5 2004) BD Elementary Young Horse Test for 5 yr (YHE5 2009) BD Elementary Young Horse Test for 6yr (YHE6 2004) BD Medium Young Horse Test for 6yr (YHM6 2009) FEI Preliminary Test for 5yr (FEI YHP5 2009) FEI Preliminary Test for 6yr (FEI YHP6 2009) FEI Finale Test for 5yr (FEI YHF5 2009) FEI Finale Test for 6 yr (FEI YHF6 2009) All National tests dated prior to 2002 have been withdrawn and must not be used. 29. Freestyle tests BD produces Test Sheets for Freestyle Tests at Introductory, Preliminary, Novice, Elementary, Medium, Advanced Medium and FEI tests at Prix St Georges, Intermediate I and Grand Prix Levels. These tests may be ridden either with or without music. No grading points are given for any Freestyle competition, whether with or without music, but in all other respects they are run in accordance with graded classes of the comparative level. 30. Freestyle to music Tests will be timed from the move off after the first salute until the halt before the final salute. Halts must be shown at the beginning and the end of all freestyle tests and these must be on the centre line facing the judge. Tests should be timed to run approximately 15 seconds under the specified time to allow for a slight variation in running speed. Two penalty points will be deducted from the final total if a test exceeds the maximum time allowed or is more than 30 seconds shorter than the minimum stated time. In the case of a technical failure that will interfere with the competition, the judge at C will ring the bell. In the case of the rider s music failing, skipping or jumping during a test, the rider may make one request to restart or the judge can suggest that they restart. When possible the restart should be immediate but if not the rider should return to complete or restart their test during a scheduled break or at the end of the competition. During extreme weather conditions or other extreme situations the judge at C may ring the bell for interruption of the test. The rider should return to complete their test when conditions permit. It is up to the rider whether to restart the test from the beginning or to commence from the point the music failed. In either case the marks already given to the point at which the music failed will not be changed. Test sheets are available at all levels and each includes a list of compulsory movements, non compulsory permitted movements and prohibited movements. If included, movements of a higher standard than the test being performed will be penalised by the deduction of two points each time they are performed 20

21 Where a competition consists of two rounds, the second being a freestyle competition, a rider automatically declares their intention to compete in the Freestyle if they participate in the first round. In cases of legitimate withdrawal due to illness or veterinary/welfare reasons the next qualified combination will move up into the freestyle. 31. Availability of tests These tests come under the Rules for National Tests when used in Affiliated BD competitions, except that all trot work must be executed as instructed on the Score Sheets. 32. Organiser s rights The Organiser has the right to: a) Cancel any class. b) Divide any class. c) Alter the advertised time of a class from that published in the schedule. d) Refuse any BD non Championship entry providing a valid reason is given to the competitor and the entry fee is returned prior to the competition. e) Refuse any entry to a BD Championship providing a valid reason is given, permission is sought from the Chief Executive and there is sufficient time for the rider to enter an alternative Regional Championship. 33. Opening dates and close of entries The opening date for entries for affiliated competitions is six weeks prior to the date of the competition. Entries may only be made on or after the opening date. The closing date for entries is two weeks before the date of the competition unless otherwise stated in the schedule. Entries may not be accepted after the closing date unless at the discretion of the Organiser. Organisers may charge a late entry fee of their choosing providing that it is shown in the schedule. 34. Entries a) Entries must: Be made on the official entry form or via the venues online entry system. Be accompanied by the correct fees. Include the BD registration or associate registration number for each horse and rider. Entries without correct and current registration details may not be accepted. Score sheets and any rosettes, prize money or prizes will not be given until correct registration details are provided. A horse may only be ridden once in any class/level (with the exception of pick your own classes where a horse may be ridden more than once in different tests within the class). b) Riders must state on their entry form whether they wish to compete in the Open or Restricted section for each class entered. If this is not stated, riders will be put in the Open section. Riders may not change sections after the class has started. c) The entry fee for each class is given in the schedules. d) Horses and riders must be eligible for the classes in which they are entered at the closing date of entries. In the event of a competition being postponed, horses must still be eligible two weeks before the new competition date. e) If a horse or rider upgrades on or after the closing date for entries, they may still compete in the class/section for which they were entered. Section 3 Competitions and Entries 21

22 Section 3 Competitions and Entries f) It is the responsibility of owners and riders to ensure that horses and riders are eligible to compete in the classes/sections for which they are entered. g) Riders who take part in a class which they are not eligible or riding a horse in a class for which it is not eligible will be notified in writing. This could result in a fine of up to 50. h) All horses must wear numbers (preferably on both sides of the bridle/saddlecloth) whilst being ridden or exercised at affiliated events. Number discs are available to purchase from the BD Office. i) The Secretary must be informed of any change of rider from the original entry. j) Organisers have the right to eliminate competitors who fail to ring for starting times at the specified time or do not an acknowledgment if requested with online times. k) A member who fails to attend a competition which they have entered without contacting the organiser to withdraw will be entered on the results as a No Show. Repeated No Shows may result in disciplinary action. l) If a rider is found to be ineligible they must return prize money and rosettes to the organiser so that they can be re distributed. 35. Balloting An organiser may close a class before close of entries if it becomes full. If, at close of entries, classes are oversubscribed, organisers will have the right to ballot. Competitors who are not successful will be placed on a waiting list and must be notified. Championship classes will not be balloted. 36. Waiting lists Organisers may keep a Waiting List. In this case, riders/owners must be informed. If for any reason a rider wishes to withdraw from the Waiting List, they must notify the organiser. 37. Withdrawals a) Once a competitor s entry has been accepted, it will be assumed that he intends to take part unless he notifies the Organiser to the contrary. Competitors must therefore declare their intention to withdraw by the time specified in the individual schedules. This will usually be three days before the competition. b) Competitors should do their best to avoid withdrawing after the withdrawal date but if it becomes unavoidable they must ring and notify the organiser immediately. c) Competitors failing to request/confirm their times as specified in the schedule may be deemed to have withdrawn. d) Written confirmation of a verbal withdrawal must reach the organiser within seven days of the withdrawal. e) Organisers may report anyone who does not take part yet fails to withdraw, or who cancels cheques to avoid payment when withdrawing to the BD office. f) Once the test has been completed (ie the final halt at the end of the test) it is not permissible to withdraw or retire. 38. Refund of entry fees a) No refund will be made to those withdrawing after the Close of Entries. 22

23 b) Fifty per cent of total entry fees will be returned to those whose withdrawal is received before the Close of Entries, and confirmed in writing within 7 days. c) A full refund will be made for horses which upgrade on or before the Close of Entries, but whose entries are not transferred to classes of a higher grade. d) A full refund will be made for horses put on a waiting list, but not eventually offered a place. e) In the event of a competition being cancelled, Organisers are entitled to retain up to 2.50 per horse, per class. The remainder is to be refunded to all entrants, including those who withdrew before the close of entries. f) Competitors on waiting lists who choose to withdraw will have 50% of their total entry fees refunded. 39. Hors Concours (HC) Riders wishing to compete HC in any class, must make this request on their entry form. HC competitors will not be eligible for any prize or prize money, and their scores need not be shown on the scoreboard. Horse and rider must be registered with BD and must comply with BD rules in all respects apart from eligibility as stated below. Under no circumstances may a rider declare to be HC after the class commences. Those riding HC will not gain any points. Riders may not compete HC at any Championship. Any Member can compete a horse HC without any restriction on eligibility for either horse/rider except for PSG and above. 40. Prize money Prize money is mandatory, except for Freestyle to Music and Para Equestrian Dressage classes. The number of prizes given and the amount of prize money, or type of prize if in kind, must be stated in the Schedule and is unrestricted. Once stated, this can only be reduced in the event of entries falling below the minimum scale as shown in the table below. Organisers are free to exceed the minimum scale if they wish to do so. No prize money 1 4 entries 1 st place 5 8 entries 2 nd place 9 12 entries 3 rd place entries 4 th place At the organisers discretion Section 3 Competitions and Entries Entries are as per the number of horses stated on the published times. The amount given for 1st prize must exceed the entry fee, and if entry fees are discounted for groups such as club members, must exceed the highest entry fee charged. Prize money will be paid per class eg. over both sections, unless stated otherwise in the competition schedule. Vouchers/prizes in kind can only be given if in addition to prize money. Where prize money is provided by a National Sponsor at Regional/Winter/National Championships, the number of prizes must be awarded as published in the schedules, regardless of the number of starters. 23

24 Section 3 Competitions and Entries 41. Rosettes Rosettes must be given to the scale in the table below for competitions but Organisers are encouraged to award at least up to 6th place. Where the classes are split in to sections the scale applies to each section. Rosettes and prize money are not awarded for Training sections unless the organisers chooses to do so. Place Number of entries 1st 1 4 2nd 5 8 3rd th th th th 25 and over 42. Prize Givings Competitors must attend prize givings, or ensure that they are represented, when requested by the organiser. Failure to attend (unless agreed with the organiser) may result in the forfeit of prize money, rosettes and other awards. Prize givings may be mounted or unmounted at the discretion of the organiser. 24

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26 Section 4 - Competitor Dress and Saddlery Section 4 - Competitor Dress and Saddlery 43. Dress Advanced Tests tail coat with protective hat or top hat, or short jacket with protective hat, both with correctly tied white/cream stock or tie. Uniform may be worn with protective hat or uniform cap. Introductory to Advanced Medium Tests (including FEI Junior tests) uniform, short jacket or tweed coat with correctly tied stock, white American Collar or shirt and tie, and protective hat. As long as the core dress rules are adhered to, embellishments and additions to any item of dress are permitted as long as they do not pose a welfare risk to the horse. 44. Coats/Jackets Tail coats and short jackets may be any conservative, dark colour, eg black, navy, bottle green, charcoal grey, brown, etc, and may not be multi coloured or boldly striped. Subtle pinstripes are permitted, as are coloured collars and contrast piping to collar, lapels, pockets and vents. The red collar on a navy jacket used by the British team may not be used. Tweed jackets may not be brightly coloured or have loud patterns. Logos level with the breast pocket are permitted on jackets but must not exceed 80 square cm (9cm x9cm approx). At the discretion of the organiser or judge, competitors may ride without coats in excessively hot weather, but a suitable long/short sleeved shirt that fastens at the neck (not bright or multicoloured) with a tie, American collar or correctly fastened stock must be worn. A fitted, plain, conservative coloured waistcoat may be worn when permission has been granted not to wear coats. Plain, dark coloured waterproof coats may be worn in wet weather. 45. Body Protectors Riders may wear body protectors or inflatable air jackets. 46. Hats Protective hats are to be worn by all riders at all times when mounted at a BD competition, including exercising, warming up and competing. Top hats or uniform caps are permitted as an exception to this rule only for Advanced to Grand Prix classes (including FEI Young Rider level) but only for the warm up directly prior to the competition (which may include riding from horse box park/stable to warm up arena) and competition test. It is, however, recommended that riders to whom this exception applies wear protective hats at all times for their own safety. Organisers may require that Under 21 riders are to wear protective hats at all levels, if this is stipulated in the schedule. Organisers may also prescribe venue specific rules that are stricter than stated if clearly shown in their schedules. Protective hats must meet one of the following standards; PAS 015, EN1384, BSEN1384 (BD strongly recommends that hats are BSI Kitemarked) ASTM F1163 (2004) with SEI mark SNELL E2001 Australian & New Zealand All AS/NZS or any new standard that meets or exceeds those stated. 26