USPEA: Para Dressage Classification (updated 4-30-24)
Classification is the first step in pursuing Para Dressage Competition
The first step is to get your USEF National classification, so you know what test movements are required for your Grade. Classification determines your Grade. There are 5 Grades in Para Dressage with Grade I for athletes with the greatest degree of physical impairment and Grade V having the least physical impairment. It’s important to understand that Grades are based on the athlete’s physical impairment and not on the riding skills of the athlete. Competition within each grade is judged on individual competitor skills on their horse, without regard to the competitor’s impairment. Grades are to level the playing field for all in the spirit of fairness. Classifications are performed by a licensed Physical Therapist, PT or Medical Doctor, MD who have received training in the Para Dressage classification system.
In Para Dressage the Athlete’s mobility, strength and coordination or visual impairment are assessed to establish their Classification Profile. Para Dressage is “parallel to Dressage” using the same basics in training, gaits, movements and figures. Unlike Dressage, athletes compete according to their Classification Grade. Athletes with similar functional ability profiles are grouped into competition grades. Para Dressage Athletes also must train and build their riding skill level and knowledge before reaching the highest level of their grade.
If your goal is to compete in international Para Dressage, you must have a FEI classification. Note: International classification is intended for athletes who will be competing in CPEDI at the CPEDI where classification takes place or soon afterwards.
USEF is responsible for training and licensing the National Classifiers and scheduling classification opportunities. The FEI trains and certifies International classifiers. Classification for National (USEF) & International (FEI) classification is always available at our US international competitions (CPEDI’s). Below you will find a link to classification information which will help you understand the classification process. Medical documentation is required and must be submitted 6 weeks prior to a classification. The link below will offer more information on classification:
International Classification
International classification allows riders to be eligible to compete in International competition. International classification is available at all FEI CPEDI events if requisite paperwork is correctly submitted within the allotted timeline. If scheduling allows riders can also obtain a national classification at CPEDIS. Check the FEI calendar for upcoming events: https://data.fei.org/Calendar/Search.aspx
Upcoming events in North America
May 30th - June 2nd Ottawa, ON
June 13th - 16th Tryon, NC
October 24th -27th Tryon, NC
National Classification
National classification allows riders to compete in national para classes at USEF competitions, in order to compete in CPEDIs you will have to undergo an international classification at a later date.
While there’s currently no national classification opportunities outside of competitions on the calendar please reach out to Laureen Johnson at USEF at lkjohnson@usef.org for upcoming opportunities or to schedule a private classification appointments with one of our classifiers.
Grant Opportunity
If you are scheduling your first classification, please take advantage of USPEA’s Jonathan Wentz Memorial Initial Classification Travel Grant, the application can be found here.
Request Classification for National or International classification through the USEF Para Equestrian Director, Laureen Johnson at lkjohnson@usef.org For National classification, once paperwork has been submitted, a USEF Classification Coordinator determines if criteria has been met to proceed with scheduled classification. Once classification is completed, a National Grade and profile is assigned, and dispensation certificate is issued. Classifiers work with IBSA Classifiers for athletes with a visual impairment. International classification is available at CPEDI3* (International FEI Para Dressage) competitions. All required forms and medical documentation must be sent at least six weeks before desired classification date and/or review/update your compensating aids.
Please click the link to download information on Para-Equestrian Classification