Musical Freestyle Dressage

Rules

Time:

The time limit for all USDF freestyles is five minutes. There is no minimum time requirement.

The bell or whistle will not be sounded at the end of five minutes.

Movements performed after the time limit has elapsed will not be scored. Two points will be deducted from the total for artistic impression for exceeding the time limit.

The program is timed and judged from the horse's move-off after the initial halt and salute. Timing will cease at the final halt and salute.

The rider must either enter the arena or signal the sound engineer within 45 seconds of the entry bell, or be eliminated.

The rider must enter the arena within 20 seconds of the start of the music, or be eliminated.

Music:

Music is mandatory.

Riders who edit existing music for the freestyle should consider securing the mechanical rights for that music.

If the music source fails, the competitior may (time permitting and at the discretion of the management)
- Restart
- Be rescheduled.

Judges:

Freestyle competitions must be judged by USEF-licensed dressage judges, at levels appropriate to their license.

Two or three judges may be located on the short end of the arena, or one may sit on the long side.

If more than one judge is officiating, all judges should score both technical execution and artistic impression.

Equipment and Turnout:

Attire, tack and saddlery for all freestyle classes must comply with USEF DR 120 and DR 121. Costume classes, etc., may also be offered, if conditions are clearly stated in the prize list. Contact USDF for specific information regarding pas de deux and quadrille classes, which are also ridden to music.

Elements of a Dressage Test or Freestyle