Hi, I’ve competed in unaffiliated shows so far and done well. I want to start competing in affiliated shows but have a few questions. First what is the difference between the two? Second what are the show fees like for all the levels? Third where can I find the tests? Finally will I be allowed use a sound box in shows as I’m blind and It’s the only way I know where the letters are? I’m in Ireland if that makes a difference. Thanks a lot for answering 🙂
In affiliated dressage the competition will be a lot harder. The judges should be better, but no guarantees. The shows should be better run, but again, no guarantees. There’s also limitations on what level you can compete at. You have to qualify to compete at upper levels, and rider/horse combinations (as well as individual horses and sometimes individual riders) who have earned more than a certain number of points are no longer allowed to compete at the lower levels.
You can expect show fees to be quite a bit more for affiliated shows than they would be for unaffiliated shows, but you’d have to contact each individual show for the exact price.
I have no idea about the sound box, that may be dependent on the show or the association. Contact the association (Dressage Ireland, I think) or look in the rule book.
Good luck!
First off, I’m in the US, so I am answering your questions as if you were in America. I assume Ireland is similar.
In the US, unaffiliated shows are more casual in turnout and you do not get year end points with USDF. Affiliated shows are formal, and you do get points for year end awards with USDF.
I can’t answer you about fees. In the US, and affiliated show will run about twice as much as unaffilited.
Test should be available on-line with the governing body of dressage in Ireland.
I know that in the US, handicapped riders are allowed to have whatever physician allowance they need, but they have to let show management know in advance.