I just entered a dressage show. I have 3 tests to memorize, and I’m pretty panicked that I am going to mix them up somehow. I do not have a trainer.
How does one obtain a reader at the show? How much do I pay them?
I plan on knuckling down and memorizing the tests, but in the heat of the moment I could very well mix up movements between them. I’d rather not waste my money getting the bell that way!
It’s easier to remember three than you think. Bring paper copies or have them on your phone. Learn them all really well beforehand. Then day of just look over the test you’re doing before each test. Then the next one before the next.
That being said people are usually super helpful at shows! Ask the secretary when you arrive or maybe even shoot them an email now and ask.
Myself and my mom have read for countless people over the years who were just there looking around “can anyone read?”
The Dressage community is usually super helpful. You could also advertise and pay someone but I don’t think you need to go that far.
What tests are you riding?
Training 2 and 3, and First 1.
They are all pretty different, so I’m hoping that helps me remember. At least they each have distinct movements (training 2 is pretty plain, training 3 has the serpentines, and first has the lengthenings and 10m halfs).
I also do not have a large arena to practice in, so I unfortunately will have to memorize by more general geometry/location. I’m such a stickler for not losing geometry points that it’s killing me a little, but it’s what I’ve got.
Even if this is a rated show,there may be someone on show staff assigned to read for anyone who asks.
Ask when you sign in at the office.
Have fun!
I definitely recommend learning where the circles etc will be in the big ring, especially the serpentine. It can be a bit confusing when you first go from 20x40 to 20x60 lol
I’m sure you’ll be able to find someone to read for you though. Good luck!
Not a rated show, just something local. Hopefully I can get help! @Jealoushe I’ll shoot the organizer an email, thanks for the tips!
I think the serpentine will be way easier in the big ring! The small ring it feels awfully rushed and little awkward.
Yes they will be easier but the placement can be a bit confusing at first!
I’ll be able to school the day before, which should help quite a bit in orienting myself.
Now, I hope they don’t have the training tests in a small ring, but they might! First has to be in the big ring so no doubts there.
Perfect! You’ll kill it!
If you Google ‘USEF Dressage tests Diagrams and Call Sheets’ they have a version you can download that has the diagrams. It’s private company, mayidesign, that hosts them. They’re free.
They were very helpful for me in learning where to start the turns, etc.
The odd #s (1 and 3) track left after the halt. test #2 tracks right. My trainer and I have several funny stories about turning the wrong way (WITH a caller!) at the start…
Now I’m interested.
I think you’re local to me - NW IN? - & Dressage venues are hens’ teeth 
Off the top of my head, Excelsior (Beth Gagliardi) & Reins of Life in MI City are the only places that hold Dressage shows.
If there’s another, pls do tell.
If I’m free, I’d be your COTH Cheering section. 
I’d offer to read, but “rusty” does not even begin to describe my skillz for that 
Way back when there were 4 tests per level, I did this at a show as a teen and my dad was SO mad at me 
Emailing the organizer is a great idea! But yes, usually there are loads of people around that will be happy to read for you. Even if you see someone reading or leaving the ring, odds are that if you ask them to read for you, they’ll happily do so. I love reading at shows!
This one is at Fox Valley Saddle Association in Hampshire IL. Not close, but not far!
Also nearby that hold dressage shows are Hannaberry and Winsom.
hey, you’re in my region! If you’re ever at Waterloo here in MI and I’m free, I’ll come cheer and read for you 
I used to do the Charity HT at Fox Valley when my horses were boarded in Schaumburg.
Nice covered arena back then (late 90s).
Ancient Brag Pics 
DH on course:
I’m pretty sure I would never be able to memorize a single test if it wasn’t for this website lol. I’m definitely a visual learner so being able to see each movement drawn out is SO helpful.
I have those printed! I just have to figure out a way to make my brain not mix anything up, and hope there’s enough time between tests to go back to the trailer for a quick review.
How strict is the show? Ride IQ has test ride throughs you could listen to with ear buds?
Or better yet, just have your phone on speaker as your reader on the side of the ring 
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