What is Western Dressage?
Western Dressage is defined as using classical dressage concepts and principles to train and develop the western rider and horse. The goal is to develop cadence, balance, relaxation and the acceptance of the aids. Western Dressage is not intended to build a dressage horse, or put a western saddle on a dressage horse. Western Dressage seeks to develop a well-rounded, disciplined horse regardless of its breed and to improve our partnership with our horse. Our goal is a happier, more sound horse, and a more aware and knowledgeable rider.
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Achieving these goals is a journey of technique, learning, growth, practice, and patience. The steady progression of training is key to a safe confident horse, the horse learns and retains his training along with getting the physical conditioning to advance his training. The rider learns along with the horse in a steady progression the that Western Dressage levels provide.
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One of the big differences between classical dressage and Western dressage is that WD has truly embraced the idea that dressage is for EVERY horse! In classical dressage, most high-level horses today are warmbloods. Western dressage welcomed all horses - Morgans, Quarter horses, Gypsy Vanners, Friesians, and even gaited breeds are welcome to participate in Western dressage. In fact, there is a separate division for gaited horses, so that they are competing only against other gaited breeds!
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We aim to grow this discipline in New England by providing an opportunity for clinics, forums, and shows and building relationships with other equine organizations.
Who is WDAMA?
The Western Dressage Association of America - Massachusetts Affiliate (WDAMA) was created to align with and promote the principles of the WDAA and independently engage in quality educational programs, outreach, and collaboration in New England. We seek to grow our membership through all New England states and will seek to organize events in different areas of New England. Join us on this exciting journey, become a member today!
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Why Join WDAMA?
Your membership helps support the mission of WDAMA - growing the sport of WD in New England. While the community of riders competing in WD is still small, we are supportive and welcoming of all levels of horses and the humans who love them.
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In addition to receiving information about all things WD in the New England area, members have the opportunity to interact with like-minded individuals, compete for terrific year-end awards, and earn dressage medals as they climb the levels. One of the benefits of membership is a quarterly newsletter that contains information on opportunities to participate in various Western dressage events in the area.
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We may be small ... but we are mighty! And ... we are growing!
