The BDF recognises eight levels of dressage competition, structured to reflect the classical progression of training. All levels are open to horses of any breed registered in Belverra.
The foundation level. Walk and trot work only, on a 20m circle. Tests focus on rhythm, relaxation, and basic steering. Open to all horses regardless of experience.
3 years
Training Level
Grassroots
Introduces the canter. Tests emphasise rhythm, relaxation, and acceptance of a consistent, following contact. Free walk on a long rein is required.
3 years
Introduces lateral work: leg yield, lengthenings in trot and canter, and 15m circles. The horse must show beginning straightness, impulsion, and throughness.
4 years
Collection begins in earnest. Shoulder-in, travers, renvers, haunches-in, rein-back, and simple changes through walk are required. The horse must demonstrate consistent self-carriage.
5 years
Flying changes, half-pass in trot and canter, medium and extended gaits, and a turn on the haunches. The horse must carry itself with throughness and engagement.
6 years
The gateway to FEI work. Tempi changes (every four and every three strides), canter half-pass, pirouettes, and passage preparation. Marks the transition from national to international standards.
7 years
The first FEI level. Shoulder-in, travers, half-pass, flying changes every four and three strides, canter pirouettes, and half-steps. Tests the horse's balance, suppleness, and throughness at collection.
7 years
Builds on Prix St. Georges with greater collection and more demanding flying changes (every two strides). Half-pass in trot and canter, pirouettes, and piaffe preparation are required.
7 years
A transitional FEI level bridging Intermediaire I and II. Introduces one-tempi flying changes and more advanced piaffe and passage work, preparing horse and rider for Grand Prix demands.
8 years
Piaffe, passage, and transitions between them are required in earnest. One-tempis, canter pirouettes, and passage-trot-passage sequences test the highest degree of collection achievable before Grand Prix.
8 years
The final step before Grand Prix. Demands highly confirmed piaffe and passage, one-tempi changes, and canter pirouettes at the highest degree of collection. Serves as the direct qualification pathway to Grand Prix competition.
8 years
The pinnacle of dressage. Piaffe (15 steps minimum), passage, transitions between piaffe and passage, one-tempi flying changes, and canter pirouettes are all required. The highest expression of classical horsemanship in Belverra.
8 years