The American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) has taken the first steps toward recognizing dressage. Beginning Jan. 1, 2004, American Quarter Horses competing at official U.S. Equestrian and United States Dressage Federation (USDF) shows will be recognized by AQHA for a yearlong trial period.

Last January AQHA formed a dressage task force comprising members of AQHA’s Show Committee to study how the Association could incorporate  dressage results. During their August meeting, AQHA’s Executive Committee voted to adopt the dressage task force recommendation.

Beginning in January, American Quarter Horses and current AQHA members competing at approved U.S. Equestrian/USDF shows will turn in their test scores and have them recorded by AQHA. This program will last for an initial one-year trial period, after which time the task force will examine the figures to see how many horses have participated, how many exhibitors have joined, and evaluate how the test score table is transferring over into point values. No points will be awarded during this time period.

“We are seeing an increasing number of American Quarter Horses competing and excelling in the discipline of dressage,” said AQHA Executive Vice President Bill Brewer. “Recognizing those American Quarter Horses that compete in U.S. Equestrian/USDF competition will give these horses the credit they deserve and generate growth of AQHA membership. We are pleased to take these initial steps toward adding dressage