USDF offers a variety of rider awards, including Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medals and Freestyle Bars, Master’s Challenge Awards, Diamond Achievement, Rider Performance Awards, Dressage Seat Equitation Awards, and Para-Dressage Athlete Rider Awards. Earning one of these awards is an amazing accomplishment that is an exciting time for an equestrian. If you have met the requirements, do you know the next steps such as how to apply, deadlines, if your award will be presented at the annual USDF Salute Gala and Awards Banquet, & how to submit a photo for the USDF Yearbook?
We demystify USDF Rider Awards here!
I have earned all the scores for a USDF Rider Award. What do I do now?
After all the award requirements are met, you must submit the USDF Rider Performance Award Application to USDF for the award to be recognized.
How do I find out what awards I’m eligible for?
See your USDF Member Dashboard or the Rider Award Eligibility tab located on USDFScores.com.
When will I receive my award?
The following rider awards are mailed to recipients after the online application has been processed.
- Rider Performance Awards
- Dressage Seat Equitation Awards
- Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medals with Distinction
- Para-Dressage Athlete Rider Awards
The rider awards listed below may be presented to award recipients on stage at the USDF Salute Gala and Awards Banquet held during the Adequan®/USDF Annual Convention. If you are unable to attend, your award will be mailed to you afterwards.
- Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medals
- Bronze, Silver, and Gold Freestyle Bars
- Master’s Challenge Awards
- Diamond Achievement
Is there a deadline to apply for a USDF Rider Award?
Yes. While scores do not expire, if you want to have your award recognized for the current competition year, the online application must be submitted to USDF by September 30.
When do I submit a photograph?
Digital photographs and the USDF Photograph Release Form must be submitted to USDF at yearbook@usdf.org, on or before the first Friday in October.
How do I order a lapel pin?
Lapel pins for corresponding USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medals and Freestyle Bars can be purchased from the USDF store. Corresponding awards must have been awarded to purchase a lapel pin.
Do scores have to be earned at the highest test of the level?
No, scores from any regular USEF or FEI test at any level may be used, including scores earned in test of choice classes.
Do I need a USEF Membership?
No, if you are only earning scores toward USDF Rider Awards, USEF memberships are not required. For more information or questions about USDF Rider Awards, see the USDF Awards Resource Guide or contact awards@usdf.org.
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