Dressage

The NZPCA implemented a National Teams Dressage Championships in 1988. Originally it was contested in three Zones in the North Island and two Zones in the South Island, with the same two judges officiating at each Zone. Over the years Zones have come together to one venue in each of the North and South Island. Each Area selects a team of six, three riders 15 years and under and three riders 16 to 21 years to compete. The same judges officiate and scores are collated to find the overall winning team, overall best juniors and seniors, and individuals.

2004 will be the first time the event will be held at a single venue and International riders invited to compete in a Teams Derby.The object of the Competition is to stimulate interest and encourage enjoyment in Dressage and correct training of the horse, thereby encouraging members to improve their riding by acquiring and establishing an independent seat, and true knowledge of the aids.

The Objects of the Competition are:

  1. The object of the Competition is to stimulate interest and encourage enjoyment in Dressage and correct training of the horse, thereby encouraging members to improve their riding by acquiring and establishing an independent seat, and a true knowledge of the aids.
  2. The object of dressage is the harmonious development of the physique and ability of the horse. As a result it makes the horse calm, supple, loose and flexible, but also confident, attentive and keen, thus achieving perfect understanding with his rider.
  3. These qualities are revealed by:
    1. The freedom and regularity of the paces.
    2. The harmony, lightness and ease of the movements.
    3. The lightness of the forehand and the engagement of the hindquarters, originating in a lively impulsion.
    4. The acceptance of the bridle, with submissiveness throughout and without any tenseness or resistance.
  4. To encourage Team participation within the objects of the NZ Pony Clubs Association, and to abide by the principles of the NZPCA Fair Play Charter.

    5. Trophies and Awards competed for are:

    Atchison Silver Salver donated Mr Tom Atchison, is awarded the Overall winning Area team. Rosettes and medals are also awarded to each of the six members of the first and second placed teams.

    Blue Legend Rosebowl donated by the Holmes Family, is awarded to the Overall winning Senior Rider.

    Barbara Harvey Rosebowl donated by the Taranaki Area Pony Club, is awarded to the Overall winning Junior Rider.

    Horse and Pony Magazine Award sponsored by the Horse and Pony Magazine, is awarded to the overall winning Junior and Senior Rider.

    National Instructors Award sponsored by the National Instructors for the best overall A1 and DC teams. The team members each receive a rosette.

    Merial NZ Ltd Eqvalan Show Covers and Medals is awarded to each member of the Overall winning Area team. The second overall placed team each receive a 'runners up' medal. Eqvalan Paste (1 tube) to each participating rider.