4632 - (2024) Test Riding - New or Current BD Tests - All Venues

The British Dressage Test Committee has completed a full review of all BD national tests.  The aim was to provide clearer progression through the levels, by streamlining, simplifying and enhancing the BD test structure, to better support the training and development of riders.

This has resulted in the introduction of new tests, as well as the revision of existing tests, to update the marks allocation, terminology, and directives, ensuring a consistent approach at all levels of national competition, from Introductory to Advanced Medium.

The number of tests available at each level has been consolidated, with four at Introductory, six at Preliminary to Medium, and five at Advanced Medium (plus two at Advanced). This will provide a much-improved framework to the BD test system, offering distinct stepping-stones for riders to progress up the levels. The new BD tests will be numbered from one to six, with one reflecting the entry test at each level, progressing through to six, the most advanced. 

Dressage at its core is all about training, developing new skills and forming a harmonious partnership between horse and rider. The new and revised tests will therefore be more clearly linked to the scales of training, with progressive tests at each level providing a greater focus on the training of horses and rider development.

Between 10 February and 30 June the region will be running Test Riding sessions with Judges and Accredited Coaches across the Region and all are listed here.  Dates may be added as the season progresses.