
As part of its mission, USDF offers a variety of award programs to recognize achievement in dressage and dressage sport horse breeding (DSHB). Within the USDF awards system, there is a goal for nearly every type and level of riding.
USDF Rider Awards are based strictly on the scores the rider achieves over time and need not be earned in one competition year.
USDF Horse Performance Certificates are based strictly on the scores a horse achieves over time and need not be earned in one year. These certificates may be earned at every level, Training through Grand Prix. Horse performance certificates can be earned for young horses competing in any USEF four-year-old young horse class, or FEI five- or six-year-old young horse class.
Adequan/USDF Year-End Awards are awarded in the categories of vintage cup, adult amateur, junior/young rider, dressage sport horse breeding horse of the year, dressage horse of the year, materiale horse of the year, all-breeds, musical freestyle, musical freestyle challenge, breeder of the year, USEF 4-year-old, FEI 5-year-old, and FEI 6-year-old. The USDF competition year is October 1 through September 30.
The USDF/Dover Saddlery Adult Amateur Medal Program is designed to recognize adult amateurs competing at Second Level. Winners of at least three USDF/Dover medals during the USDF competition year will receive a USDF/Dover National merit award. Top scoring merit award winners compete for the national and reserve championship awards. The national champion receives a $1000 Dover Saddlery gift certificate and a dressage saddle. The reserve champion receives a $500 Dover Saddlery gift certificate and a dressage bridle. Awards will be presented at the Adequan®/USDF Annual Convention.