Friday, June 2, 2005

2005 USEF/Markel Young Dressage Horse Western Selection Trial for Five-Year-Olds

New Qualifications Raise the Bar

In a new format this year, the Selection Trial competition is comprised of two tests for each age division (Five- & Six-Year-Old): the Preliminary Test and the Finale Test. Held over two days, the Preliminary Test counts 40% towards the overall results, with the Finale Test being the determining factor at 60% of the total. In addition, all horses must have pre-qualified by earning a score of at least 6.8 in a previous Young Horse test in order to contest the Trial, thereby raising the bar for all entrants.

The 6.8% score is good enough to qualify for the USEF/Markel National Young Horse Championships in September, with qualifying classes at shows throughout the summer creating opportunities for Young Horse hopefuls. However, to make the short list for Verden the horses must earn a 7.5%, and in the 5-year old division at Flintridge, three horses achieved that task.