Dressage Competitions

We understand that the different classifications of dressage competitions that you may enter can get a little bit confusing, however it has come to our attention that some riders are entering their IQ number instead of the official dressage bridle number when entering offiicial competitions, and so we would like to clarify what is required for different classes.

Participation: also called 'unofficial'. These classes are considered to be unofficial and therefore your horse does not acquire grading points. Riders must be a participant or competiive member of EQ. Horses are not required to be EA registered. These classes only run up to Novice level.

Official: also called 'Competitive'. These classes do acquire grading points for horses. Riders must be competitive members of EQ. Horses must be EA registered and have an official dressage bridle number and dressage card issued. Competitive classes can be any level from prelim upwards. You must wear correct dressage attire for these competitions, not IQ school uniform.

IQ Tag On: This is in addition to the above categories. You must abide by the rules of the sport, therefore if you are competing in an official dressage event that is also an IQ tag on event, you must have competitive membership, your horse must be EA registered and have a dressage bridle number and dressage card issued irrespective of whether it is counted towards your qualifiers for IQ. If you are competing as an interschool competitior, you must also have registered your horse & rider combination with IQ.

IQ School Run Events: all riders must be competitive members (participant for events held north of Rockhampton) and horses must be registered with IQ. Your horse will need to be EA registered if you are competing in 'above the line' classes. All horses must be EA registered to compete at IQ State Championships.

We recognise that as both the EA and IQ numbers are 4 digits, this can become a little confusing, but the staff at EQ are always happy to help if you are not sure whether you have everything required to compete in certain events.