5 Things you need to compete in Online Dressage Competitions.

I am a great fan of taking part in Online Dressage Competitions. The beauty of this type of competition is its accessibility. I’ve mentioned in a previous blog that I see the challenge of dressage competition as performing the tests in the arena with my horse and that the challenge is linked to the importance we place on the performance rather than the venue. 
Read my blog about the 5 things you need to take part with your horse. 

1 Check out the test sheets at the level you wish to complete and familiarise yourself with the patterns. The test directives will help you to appreciate the expectations of the Judge at the level. You can order BD  tests from British Dressage and Dressage Diagrams have an online test service. I find it really helpful that they have a portfolio with all the tests you have purchased. 

2 It is important that you have an arena set out for the correct size so that you can perform accurate shapes and test patterns. It’s a good idea to measure it out until you are confident to pace the distance. Think about the geometry of the arena. The centre line is 10m away from the track. K F M & H are each 6m from the corner whilst in a 20m by 40m arena E and B are midway at 20m from the corner. 

3 You need to mark out the letter markers. I like these portable cones from Amazon. ( Affiliate link ) 

4 You need to find a competition website and look at the schedule. I am currently competing with Dressage Anywhere,   E Dressage  and Online Dressage International. Other competition websites are available. Make sure you are familiar with the rules for each class or series you enter. 

5 You need a way to film your test. Filming on a smart phone is fine as long as it’s in landscape. If you don’t have a friend or training buddy to film you might want to look at a robot camera such as Pivo. 

A great feature of competing online is that you can compete as a team with riders who need not share your geographical location. If you would like to be part of the Solitaire Dressage Team contact me and I will help you get started. Would you like to download my free Feel Good Dressage Mini Course? Take a look here. 

Stay tuned for my competition reports.