Lexington, Ky. – The United States Dressage Federation™ (USDF) alongside the US Equestrian Federation (USEF) are excited to share that starting January 1, 2025, USDF will transition to become the USEF Recognized Affiliate Association for Para Dressage. In preparation for this change, a taskforce comprising representatives from the United States Para Equestrian Association (USPEA), USEF […]
Lexington, Ky. – The United States Dressage Federation™ (USDF) alongside the US Equestrian Federation (USEF) are excited to share that starting January 1, 2025, USDF will transition to become the USEF Recognized Affiliate Association for Para Dressage.
In preparation for this change, a taskforce comprising representatives from the United States Para Equestrian Association (USPEA), USEF Para-Equestrian Sport Committee, and USDF convened with the USEF executive branch to pinpoint the modifications, amendments, and updates needed for USDF Policies & Procedures and Bylaws to incorporate para dressage into the USDF framework and detail the roles and responsibilities associated with the corresponding affiliate position. With backing from USPEA, USEF sanctioned USDF’s proposal to attain Recognized Affiliate status during their fall assembly, and the USDF Board of Governors ratified the motion at the Adequan®/USDF Annual Convention in Houston.
“The merging of para and able-bodied dressage representation under the USDF umbrella signifies another stride forward in USDF’s mission and clarifies the similarities between both fields,” remarked USDF President George Williams. “We are immensely appreciative of the support from both USPEA and USEF regarding this affiliate transition, and we believe this will empower USPEA to concentrate on fundraising and educational initiatives aligned with para-equestrian sports, in line with their recently revised mission and vision. USDF is poised to seamlessly integrate para dressage into its structure, represent its interests with USEF, and fulfill all related obligations linked with this official designation. We anticipate the chance to advocate for para dressage and enhance acknowledgment and involvement in the sport moving forward.”
USPEA President Ellie Brimmer concurred, stating, “USDF assuming the affiliate role has been an objective since USPEA’s inception. We see this as an avenue to elevate para dressage sport at the national scale. As an athlete, I am thrilled to witness para making its mark in such a prestigious organization as USDF; I believe it will be advantageous for both able-bodied and para riders. As an entity, USPEA looks forward to continuing our collaboration with USEF as an educational partner. This updated role will empower us to deliver education on para dressage at both individual and organizational levels. We already provide several grants to emerging athletes, and we aspire to broaden these opportunities in the future with our renewed focus and witness more riders achieve success and satisfaction in the para dressage domain.”
Just as it has in its capacity as Recognized Affiliate for Dressage, USDF will similarly advocate for para dressage within the national framework, while USEF will maintain responsibility for high performance and FEI representation.
Hallye Griffin, Director of FEI Sport at US Equestrian expressed, “We are very enthusiastic about the United States Dressage Federation taking on the role as the official discipline affiliate for para dressage. Following the remarkable success of the 2024 U.S. Para Dressage Team at the Paris Paralympics Games, this presents a prime opportunity to establish more structure, governance, and success for this expanding discipline in the United States. Collaborating closely with USDF staff and leadership will significantly benefit the growth and governance of the discipline. We trust that this partnership will not only boost the visibility of para dressage but also generate new opportunities and acknowledgment for the para dressage discipline and the athletes and stakeholders dedicated to fostering its success here in the U.S.”
As of January 1, 2025, the newly constituted USDF Para Dressage Committee will embark on its mission to nurture, encourage, and advocate for the seamless integration of para dressage into the USDF framework and mission, fully embracing and representing the genuine ‘parallels’ of dressage and its advantages, as well as serving as a source of information for external parties on para dressage related themes and opportunities.
For additional details regarding USEF Recognized Affiliates and their functions, click here.
About USEF
The United States Equestrian Federation (US Equestrian) serves as the national governing body for equestrian sports, striving to enhance access and participation across all levels by promoting fairness, safety, and enjoyment. Since its establishment in 2003, US Equestrian has sought to spread the joy of equestrian activities to a wider audience. The organization also manages the selection and funding processes for all United States Equestrian Teams, aiming for persistent success at the highest international standards of equestrian sports.
About USPEA
The United States Para-Equestrian Association (USPEA) consists of current and former athletes, owners, officials, event organizers, and equestrian lovers. The Association supports athletes in engaging and enhancing their knowledge and experience within the Para-Equestrian disciplines.
About USDF
The United States Dressage Federation is a nonprofit membership organization devoted to education, acknowledgment of achievement, and the promotion of dressage. For further details about USDF membership or programs. For inquiries, kindly e-mail [email protected], or contact (859) 971-2277.
