Growing the Sport One Show at a Time
By Martha M. Day
Grassroots dressage shows are creating accessible pathways into recognized competition across Kentucky, supporting young horses, developing riders, and building community through welcoming, professionally managed events.
Grassroots dressage shows play a vital role in growing our sport by creating accessible pathways into recognized competition. These thoughtfully managed events offer affordable, correct venues for developing partnerships, welcoming environments for new riders, and valuable ring mileage for young horses and less experienced competitors alike. In Kentucky, grassroots competitions are building community while helping riders gain confidence, horses gain experience, and participants feel supported as they take their next steps into the broader dressage world.
“At its core, grassroots dressage is about access, growth, and connection.”
This vision began with a conversation between longtime dressage professional Kim Carpenter, proprietress of Greystone Dressage Show Services, and myself, Maple Dell Ranch owner, trainer, and competitor Martha M. Day.
Kim began managing dressage shows at her father’s world-class facility, Greystone Equestrian Center in Lynnville, Tennessee. There, competitions were known as Dressage at Greystone. There she developed a reputation for impeccably organized shows with a personalized, rider-centered feel. After the facility was sold, Kim continued producing competitions under the name Greystone Dressage, taking her expertise nationwide and earning recognition for stellar organization, attention to detail, and exceptional customer service—all while honoring her late father’s legacy.
For me, dressage has long been both a sport and a source of healing.
Kim supported me deeply after I lost my husband, Dave Slonim, in 2016. She often reminded me how steadfast Dave was—once standing in a torrential downpour reading for a First Level test. The horse I was riding, my American Quarter Horse (AQHA) gelding Dakota Roan Gunner (Wiley), was an anniversary gift from Dave. Continuing my dressage journey with Wiley became a way to honor him.
Together, Wiley and I progressed through Prix St. Georges, earning my USDF Bronze Medal, and completing part of the Silver Medal requirements before Wiley retired from competition. I am currently developing my seven-year-old homebred Oldenburg gelding, Requiem (Gunny), under the guidance of coach and USDF Gold Medalist Meghan Riviello at Woodspring Farm in Versailles, Kentucky, and am also bringing along my four-year-old homebred Oldenburg filly, Fidelia.
It was during one of many conversations that Kim suggested Maple Dell Ranch in Scottsville, Kentucky, might be suitable for hosting Level 1 recognized dressage shows (DR126.4).
I asked her, “Do you really think we can pull it off?” And Kim said, “We sure can!”
Since launching their first competition in April 2023, Maple Dell Ranch has hosted two USEF-licensed/USDF-recognized shows each season. I, along with my husband, Mark, have steadily developed the property into a welcoming venue featuring 15 stalls, a judge’s box, campsites with restroom and shower facilities, an outdoor competition arena, and an indoor warm-up arena (both with Tru-Tex footing,) bringing recognized dressage to South Central Kentucky.
“Our goal is to introduce new riders to recognized competition while building confidence to travel to larger recognized shows.”
Strategically located approximately 1.5 hours from Nashville and 2.5 hours from Lexington, Maple Dell Ranch serves riders who might otherwise lack nearby access to recognized competition. The goal is not only to introduce new participants to dressage, but also to cultivate future Kentucky Dressage Association members who feel confident traveling to larger KDA shows.
The atmosphere reflects the true spirit of grassroots dressage: friendly, supportive, and community-centered. Riders enjoy thoughtfully prepared show packets with ample swag, high-point prizes, on-site food truck hospitality, professional photography by Lisa Michelle Dean Photography, and an environment where questions are welcomed.
USEF judges are invited to stay for an extra day as clinicians, extending education beyond the competition. The October show even features a Halloween costume contest at the conclusion of the event.
“Grassroots dressage gives riders a place to start, a place to grow, and a community to belong to.”
Volunteers are another cornerstone of success. Through my connections at Western Kentucky University, retired faculty and community members regularly support the shows, helping newcomers feel at home.
Honoring a Legacy — Kim Carpenter and Greystone Dressage
Kim Carpenter’s journey began at her father’s Greystone Equestrian Center in Lynnville, Tennessee, where shows were known as Dressage at Greystone. After the facility was sold, Kim continued producing competitions under Greystone Dressage, building a national reputation for meticulous preparation, clear communication, and outstanding customer service.
Through Greystone Dressage Show Services, Kim honors her father’s legacy by creating competitions that combine professionalism with warmth and collegiality, well-run rings, thoughtful scheduling, and competitor-focused details that encourage learning and growth.
All Maple Dell competitions are affiliated with the Kentucky Dressage Association, with scores counting toward KDA High Point Awards, and connecting grassroots participants to the broader dressage community.
Looking ahead to 2026, Greystone Dressage at the Dell will host two recognized competitions at Maple Dell Ranch: May 16, 2026 (judge/clinician Ida Norris, S [VT]) and October 24, 2026 (judge/clinician Dr. Judy Downer, S [FL]).
Kim is also expanding Kentucky opportunities with two additional Level 1 recognized competitions at Maple Swamp Farm in Waynesburg, Kentucky. Owned by Grand Prix rider and trainer Ela Ladwig these new competitions will take place on June 13, 2026, offering Introductory through Fourth Levels judged by Susan Posner, R (KY), and August 29, 2026 with judge Sue Kolstad, S (KY), offering Introductory through Grand Prix classes. These shows are also affiliated with KDA.
At its core, grassroots dressage is about access, growth, and connection; giving young horses their first show experience, helping riders gain confidence in the ring, and building relationships that sustain the sport. Through Kim’s vision and venues like Maple Dell Ranch and Maple Swamp Farm, dressage in the Commonwealth is expanding thoughtfully and inclusively, one show at a time.
2026 Show Dates at a Glance
Greystone Dressage at the Dell
Maple Dell Ranch — Scottsville, KY
• May 16, 2026 – Judge/Clinician Ida Norris, S (VT)
• October 24, 2026 – Judge/Clinician Dr. Judy Downer, S (FL)
USEF/USDF recognized; KDA affiliated; scores count toward KDA High Point Awards.Greystone Dressage at the Swamp
Maple Swamp Farm — Waynesburg, KY (Ela Ladwig, owner)
• June 13, 2026 (Intro–Fourth Level) – Judge Susan Posner, R (KY)
• August 29, 2026 (Intro–Grand Prix) – Judge Sue Kolstad, S (KY)
USEF Level 1 recognized; KDA affiliated.
About the Author
Dr. Martha M. Day is the owner, trainer, and competitor at Maple Dell Ranch in Scottsville, Kentucky, where she hosts USEF-licensed/USDF-recognized dressage competitions in partnership with Greystone Dressage Show Services. A USDF Bronze Medalist, she develops young horses and promotes accessible, grassroots dressage across the Commonwealth. Outside the show ring, she is a Professor of STEM Education at Western Kentucky University.
