Question 1

What is the Fédération de Dressage Artistique (FDA)?

Accepted Answer

The Fédération de Dressage Artistique is an independent French equestrian federation dedicated to artistic dressage. It runs online competitions open to every rider, with no requirement to hold a licence from another federation, and applies rigorous, transparent judging evenly to every performance.

Question 2

What is artistic dressage?

Accepted Answer

Artistic dressage is an equestrian discipline that puts the emphasis on expression, harmony and the understanding between rider and horse, alongside technical accuracy. Unlike competitive classical dressage, it rewards creative choreography, the choice of music and the staging of the program, while respecting the horse's wellbeing and lightness.

Question 3

Who can take part in FDA competitions?

Accepted Answer

FDA competitions are open to every rider, from amateur to experienced, with no requirement to hold a licence from another federation. Entry is online; the performance is filmed by the rider or the organiser following a standard video set-up, then sent to the federation to be judged.

Question 4

How do I join the FDA?

Accepted Answer

You can join the Fédération de Dressage Artistique directly from its website, using the online membership form. Payment is made through PayPal. The member receives a licence number and gains immediate access to the competition programme.

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