AQHA supports the Western Dressage Association of America in its mission to build an equine community that combines the western traditions of horse and rider with classical dressage.

The American Quarter Horse Association is proud to announce its partnership with the Western Dressage Association of America. This alliance was formed as a result from the approval of western dressage as a new class starting at AQHA events in 2020.

WDAA was established in 2011 with the mission of building an equine community that combines the western traditions of horse and rider with classical dressage. With more than 1,500 members, WDAA is recognized as the sole affiliate representing the discipline of western dressage through the United States Equestrian Federation.

Throughout the 2020 show season, exhibitors will have the opportunity to participate in dual-approved classes at WDAA events, in addition to special events hosted by AQHA.

AQHA is working to promote joint education efforts for AQHA judges to obtain approval through WDAA and for WDAA judges to have the opportunity to obtain an AQHA-approved specialized-judge certification.

WDAA, in partnership with AQHA, intends to serve western dressage enthusiasts through:

• Honoring the horse.
• Valuing the partnership between horse and rider.
• Celebrating the legacy of the American West.

The inclusion of western dressage at AQHA events allows event placings and money earned available to AQHA for inclusion on horses’ achievement records, which also will be available through AQHA’s QData reports.

Article taken from AQHA and can be found here: https://www.aqha.com/-/aqha-partners-with-western-dressage-association-of-america