Southwest Florida Dressage Association

06/16/2026

Mark your calendars now! Don't miss out on reaching your goals, making new friends & having a great time with your horse!

SWFDA shows for 2026-27!

Oct. 24, 2026 - Leslie O’Sullivan (L)
Nov. 21, 2026 - Linda Currie (r)
Jan. 16, 2027 - WDAA Recognized, Patti Thompson ( R)
Feb. 20, 2027 - Kathleen Peterson (L)
March 20, 2027 - Amy Bradley ( R)

06/14/2026

🐴💡

Have you ever read the collective remarks on the back of your dressage test and wondered how judges determine the score for the rider’s position?

In this week's spotlight article, author Jayne Ayers explains what judges look for when evaluating a rider’s position. Whether you're aiming to improve your marks or simply gain a better understanding of the judging process, this is valuable insight for every dressage rider.

USDF members can read the full article at the link below:
🔗 https://www.usdf.org/education/university/kb/item.asp?ID=2634

P.S. This article, and select other reprinted USDF Connection articles, are also available to non-members on YourDressage.org.

✍ Jayne Ayers
📸 HAND AND WRIST ALIGNMENT: Incorrect hand and wrist position compromises the rider’s ability to follow the horse’s motion and hinders the clarity of the rein aids

06/11/2026

Good information to be aware of!

On June 3, 2026, the U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed New World Screwworm in the umbilical area of a calf in Zavala County, Texas. This expansion into the United States is alarming and US Equestrian (USEF) wants to make sure you know about the potential risks of this parasitic fly to horses.

06/07/2026

If you are looking for great deals AND want to help our club earn rewards, check out StateLineTack.com by using this special link! https://www.statelinetack.com/s/swfda

06/05/2026

A huge shout-out to the Southwest Florida Dressage Association for selecting Mr. Lucky Dog Sanctuary as this season's charity sponsor!
Your generous donation will help us keep our dogs healthy, happy, and well cared for.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your support and kindness. We are truly grateful for your commitment to helping our rescue dogs.❤️🐕🐾

06/04/2026

Hope everyone’s summer is off to a great start!

05/18/2026

WE HAVE A VOICE! LET’S USE IT!

Teresa Boss, our membership chair and our Region 4 representative on the Adult Programs Committee with USDF, shares the following information.

As Dressage riders and competitors, we are subject to the rules of the game. These Rules are issued by the USEF and undergo an extensive process before they are implemented.

Some of the proposed rules are:
DR 120.4 - Only smooth rowels are permitted on spurs
DR 121 - No double bridles at 3rd level
DR 122.3 - Limit penalties for use of voice
And many more

It is our responsibility to know the future of the rules and have a voice.

The current comment period for proposed rules closes May 31ST!!! That is 16 days away!!

USDF Link to view and Comment on Rule Changes

https://www.usdf.org/competitions/usefrulechanges.asp

The following USEF link takes you directly to the page that explains the process, allows you to search by discipline, and lets you read and comment.

https://www.usef.org/compete/resources-forms/rules-regulations/rule-changes

05/18/2026

How accurate is this quiz for you?

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/17fRUY5WZA/

05/10/2026

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms of two, three, or four legged babies out there!

05/06/2026

Happy Cinco de Mayo!
Enjoy your day with some shopping! Use this link to find some great deals https://www.statelinetack.com/s/25010a