NLDS offers several USEF/USDF recognized shows during the competition season. The majority of our shows are held in Minnesota's lovely Twin Cities area. Our recognized shows are professionally organized and managed, yet provide a supportive and low-key environment for new competitors.

If you're new to recognized showing, here are a few pointers to help make your first experience a great one.

• Understand and comply with the USDF and USEF membership requirements. Membership requirements apply to the Competitor, Trainer, and Horse Owner. Pay special attention to the following:
  • Safe Sport requirements
  • How to handle owner membership requirements if you lease your horse
• At a minimum, your horse must have a USDF Horse ID Number. However, depending on your competition goals you may need a USDF Annual or Lifetime Registration Number and USEF Recording Number. The type of horse registration that is right for you depends upon your competition goals.
• It is your responsibility to understand and abide by the USEF rules for recognized dressage competitions. Link to the current USEF rulebook here.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a recognized show?

Recognized shows are licensed USEF/USDF competitions. Competitors must comply with the current USEF and USDF membership requirements, rules and regulations for recognized shows. These apply to the Competitor, Trainer, and Horse Owner, so you need to make sure everyone on your team understands and complies with the membership requirements, rules, and regulations. There are rules regarding drugs and medications. You need to know if what you are giving your horse is legal or not. This will also include any supplements or feed you may be giving your horse. A mistake in this area could lead to some serious consequences.