USPEA: Para Dressage Classification (updated 2-14-23)
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:
https://www.usef.org/compete/disciplines/para-equestrian/para-equestrian-dressage-programs-forms/classification
Below are the 2023 US CPEDI’s where both International & National classification will be offered. A few other national opportunities have been scheduled at USEF Centers of Excellence (COE’s) for Para Dressage.
2023 US CPEDI’s
March 9-12, 2023 - Wellington, FL
June 15-18, 2023 - Tryon, NC
October 26 – 29. 2023 Tryon, NC
COE opportunities - National Only
April 29-30, 2023 -Thornicroft, Therapeutic Horseback Riding Inc, Malvern, PA: https://www.thorncroft.org/
May 27-28, 2023 - Carlisle Academy, Lyman, ME; https://carlisleacademymaine.com/
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