WDAA Show Recognition Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, points are factored based on the type of show. While all WDAA-recognized shows are eligible for YEHP points, online shows earn half points to account for the differing competitive environment. Points are calculated based on class placings and the number of entries in each class, with a maximum of 10 points awarded for first place. The WDAA hosted WDAA Online International Challenge earns full points for YEHP.

Yes, non-WDAA members can compete at WDAA-recognized shows. Show organizers are required to include data for all competitors, including non-members, in the official results submitted to WDAA. However, only WDAA members are eligible to earn points in the WHLPAP, YEHP, and World Show Qualifying programs, and non-member data will not be displayed in WDAA’s online results or points tracking systems.

Yes, WDAA requires that scores, placings, and other routine information for all competitors, including non-members, be included in the official results submitted after the show. This ensures complete and accurate reporting. However, non-member data is not displayed in WDAA’s online results and is not imported into the WDAA system for points tracking or award programs.

Show management submits overall show results to WDAA by emailing data sheet summaries for each class to Results@westerndressageassociation.org. Acceptable file formats include .xlsx, .csv, and .dat. An Excel template, show-generated spreadsheet, or forms used by USEF/USDF, AHA, or similar organizations are generally acceptable.

Promoting your WDAA recognized show is key to increasing participation and visibility among WDAA members. Here’s how:

1. Leverage the WDAA Calendar

• WDAA Event Calendar: Once your show is approved for WDAA recognition, it will automatically be published on the official WDAA recognized shows calendar. Members regularly check this calendar when planning their competition schedules, so ensure your show details are accurate and up to date.

2. Promote on Your Platforms

• Website: Publish your show information, including dates, location, and prize list, on your website to provide a central hub for details.
• Social Media: Share posts on your social media pages and in relevant groups. Include eye-catching graphics, show highlights, and reminders to boost engagement.
• Email Blasts: Send email updates to previous competitors and local Western Dressage communities to inform them about your event.

3. Collaborate with Affiliates and Clubs

• Reach out to local WDAA affiliates or Western Dressage clubs to share your event details through their newsletters, websites, or social media channels. This helps you target active competitors in your area.

4. Highlight WDAA Recognition

• Use your WDAA recognition status as a key selling point. Promote the fact that your show’s results count toward popular WDAA programs like WHLPAP and YEHP.
• Include the WDAA show recognition logo in all promotional materials to signal your event’s alignment with WDAA standards.

5. Maximize Early Promotion

• Submitting your show for WDAA recognition early allows you to start promoting sooner. Early visibility ensures members can include your show in their competition plans.

Promoting your WDAA recognized show through these strategies will help you attract more exhibitors and highlight your show’s compliance with WDAA standards.

To support show secretaries, WDAA provides protected access to membership and verification reports, which can be used to confirm current WDAA membership and horse identification details during the entry process or results submission. Show secretaries are encouraged to use these verification tools to ensure data accuracy and reduce potential errors in show records.

There is no difference in reporting requirements between WHLPAP and YEHP. WDAA has a single set of data requirements that all recognized shows must meet to achieve WDAA show recognition. These requirements ensure that all necessary data is provided for both the WHLPAP and YEHP programs.

By meeting WDAA show recognition reporting standards, show organizers automatically provide the data needed for accurate points tracking and program eligibility. This unified approach simplifies the reporting process and maintains consistency across all WDAA-recognized shows.

If you don’t have show software or your current software cannot provide the required data for WDAA, there are flexible solutions available to ensure compliance:

1. Use the WDAA Results Template

• Download the official WDAA Excel template for manual results submission:
  Download WDAA Results Template
• This template includes all required fields and preformatted columns, making it easy to input data manually or transfer data from your existing system.

2. Use a Companion Report Option for USEF or AHA Formats

• If your software produces results in USEF or AHA formats that do not include all required WDAA membership and horse identification data, WDAA offers a companion report option.
• Submit the primary results file in its original format (e.g., USEF or AHA) and include a separate file that contains WDAA membership and horse identification data.
• WDAA will match records between the two files to ensure accurate data tracking.

3. Ensure All Required Data is Provided

Whether you use the WDAA template or submit a companion report, ensure your files include the following information:

• Show Name
• WDAA Recognition Number
• Show Dates
• Exhibitor Name
• WDAA Membership Number (if applicable)
• Horse Name
• Horse Identification Number (WDAA Horse Number, Breed Registration Number, or USEF Horse Number)
• Class Number
• Class Name
• Division (e.g., Junior, Amateur, Open, Gaited, Exceptional Rider)
• Level
• Test
• Score
• Percentage
• Number of Entries in Class
• Placing

4. Submit Files to WDAA

• Email all files to WDAA at results@westerndressageassociation.org.
• Include the WDAA show number, show name and date in the subject line for easy identification.

Why These Options Work

• Flexible Submission: The WDAA template and companion report option accommodate different software limitations.
• Accurate Matching: WDAA’s process ensures data from multiple files is matched seamlessly, providing accurate points and results tracking.
• Streamlined Compliance: These tools make it easy to meet WDAA requirements without changing your existing workflow.

By using the WDAA Excel template or companion report option, you can submit complete and accurate results, regardless of your software’s capabilities.

Yes, WDAA membership is required for exhibitors to participate in the Year-End High Point (YEHP) program. Entry forms should include fields for exhibitors to provide their current WDAA membership number and a form of horse identification, such as a WDAA Horse Number, Breed Registration Number, or USEF Horse Number. This information ensures eligibility for points and accurate tracking within the YEHP program.

Steps to Report the Change:

1. Notify WDAA Immediately
   • Email the updated information to the designated WDAA contact (e.g., recognition@westerndressageassociation.org). Include your show name, date, and the specific change (e.g., new judge’s name, updated secretary contact information).
2. Provide Required Details
   • For judges, ensure they hold the appropriate WDAA or USEF license level (small ‘r’ or large ‘R’). If the new judge does not meet the required qualifications, it may affect your show’s recognition status and the approved classes.
   • For secretaries or other personnel, provide updated contact information and confirm their role in the show.
3. Judge Changes and Impact on Recognized Classes
   • WDAA will review the qualifications of the new judge to determine whether all previously approved classes remain recognized. If the new judge is not qualified to officiate certain classes, those classes will no longer be WDAA recognized.
   • If there is a change in recognized classes offered, the show secretary must notify exhibitors immediately to communicate the updates and manage expectations.

Effect on Show Recognition:

• Minor Changes: Updates such as a new secretary or steward that comply with WDAA requirements typically do not impact your show recognition.
• Judge Changes: Judge changes may result in adjustments to recognized classes based on the new judge’s qualifications. Reporting promptly ensures your show remains compliant with WDAA standards.

For a complete list of recognized award divisions and full YEHP rules, visit: WDAA Year-End High Point Program Rules

Award Categories

Determined by country of WDAA registered horse owner

• United States Program – YEHP
• International Program – IYEHP

Award recipients will be grouped by Level and Division as follows:

Awards

Award Certificate to the top 10 placings in each Level – Division Digital commemorative certificate sent by email

Optional Award Buckle available for purchase February 2026 for winners: $239 each (shipping included) A portion of proceeds funds 2026 Point Program Enhancements

WDAA Dressage Tests and Freestyles

• Introductory Level, Basic Level, Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 Level 4 and Level 5 ❖ Junior ❖ Amateur ❖ Open
• Gaited Horse Horse All Levels ❖ Gaited Amateur ❖ Gaited Junior ❖ Gaited Open
• Exceptional Rider ❖ Physically Challenged ❖ Therapeutic Rider

Rail Classes and Patterns

• Suitability, Hack, Equitation on the Rail Classes, Western Dressage Seat Equitation Pattern Classes
  • Hack ❖ Junior ❖ Amateur ❖ Open ❖ Gaited Amateur ❖ Gaited Junior ❖ Gaited Open
  • Suitability ❖ Junior ❖ Amateur ❖ Open ❖ Gaited Amateur ❖ Gaited Junior ❖ Gaited Open
  • Equitation on the Rail  Walk-Jog ❖ Junior ❖ Amateur ❖ Open ❖ Gaited Amateur ❖ Gaited Junior ❖ Gaited Open
  • Equitation on the Rail  Walk-Jog-Lope ❖ Junior ❖ Amateur ❖ Open ❖ Gaited Amateur ❖ Gaited Junior ❖ Gaited Open
  • Horsemanship Levels: Walk | Walk-Jog-Lope | Intermediate | Advanced ❖ Junior ❖ Amateur ❖ Open ❖ Gaited Amateur ❖ Gaited Junior ❖ Gaited Open

Need info

If your USEF, breed, or other type of show recognition is pending and you want to apply for combined recognition with WDAA, follow these steps to ensure compliance:

1. Submit Your WDAA Application
   • Complete and submit your WDAA Show Recognition Application form, providing all required details such as show name, dates, location, and proposed classes.
2. Indicate Pending Recognition
   • Clearly note in your WDAA application that your additional recognition (USEF, breed organization, or other type) is pending. Include the date you applied and any confirmation or reference number you received from the other organization.
3. Meet WDAA Rules and Guidelines
   • Regardless of any other association’s recognition, your show must meet all WDAA rules and guidelines to achieve WDAA recognition. This includes using WDAA-approved judges, classes, and tests, as well as adhering to WDAA requirements for data submission and compliance.
4. Provide Recognition Details Upon Approval
   • Once your additional show recognition is approved, notify WDAA immediately with the approval details. Include the recognition number (if applicable), the effective date of recognition, and any updates to the class list or show details that may have been required by the other organization.
5. Proceed with Conditional WDAA Recognition
   • WDAA may grant conditional recognition for your show while your other recognition is pending. This allows you to move forward with planning, provided all WDAA requirements are met.
6. Ensure Finalized Combined Recognition
   • Confirm that all recognitions (WDAA and others) have been officially approved before promoting your show as combined-recognized. Ensure all requirements from each organization are met.
7. Contact WDAA for Guidance
   • If there are delays or complications with your other recognition, reach out to WDAA for guidance. WDAA can provide advice on proceeding while maintaining compliance with their recognition standards.

If a WDAA recognized show fails to meet rules, guidelines, or post-reporting requirements, the following consequences may apply:

1. Loss of WDAA Show Recognition

• The show may lose its WDAA recognition status, resulting in:
  • Removal from the WDAA recognized shows calendar.
  • Ineligibility for results to count toward WHLPAP, YEHP and World Show Qualifying programs.

2. Disqualification of Results

• Results submitted from the show may be disqualified if they do not meet WDAA reporting requirements, including missing or inaccurate data.
• Points for exhibitors and horses will not be processed or awarded.

3. Notification and Resolution Opportunity

• WDAA will notify the show organizer of any issues or non-compliance.
• Organizers may be given a chance to resolve the issue, such as submitting missing data, or correcting reporting errors, within a specific timeframe.

4. Impact on Future Show Recognition

• Shows with recurring compliance issues may face additional scrutiny or restrictions when applying for WDAA recognition in the future.

How to Avoid These Issues

• Review Guidelines: Ensure the show complies with all WDAA rules and guidelines before the event.
• Submit Accurate Data: Use the WDAA Excel template or other approved formats to ensure results meet reporting requirements.
• Meet Deadlines: Submit all required post-show reports within the 14-day deadline to avoid delays or disqualification.

Meeting WDAA requirements ensures your show remains recognized, allowing exhibitors to earn points and participate in WDAA programs.

To complete your WDAA show recognition application form, you’ll need to gather the following information to ensure a smooth and accurate application process:

1. Show Details
   • Show Name: The official name of the show.
   • Show Dates: The start and end dates of your show.
   • Location: The venue name and address, including city and state.
2. Organizer Contact Information
   • Primary Contact Name: The name of the person responsible for coordinating with WDAA.
   • Primary Contact Phone Number and Email: Contact details for any follow-up questions or confirmation.
   • Show Secretary Contact Name: – responsible for submitting show results and post show reporting.
   • Show Secretary Phone Number and Email: 
3. Judges and Officials
   • Judges’ Names and Credentials: List the names of judges who will be officiating, along with their WDAA or USEF license level (e.g., small ‘r’ or large ‘R’).
   • Steward: steward or designated equipment inspector, who will oversee compliance with WDAA rules regarding equipment, tack, and attire.
4. Show Format and Details
   • Types of Classes Offered: Include a list of classes that will be offered, such as Western Dressage tests, freestyle, rail classes, and equitation.
   • Divisions and Levels: Specify divisions (e.g., Junior, Amateur, Open) and levels (e.g., Introductory, Basic, Level 1-5) that will be included in the show.
5. Fees and Payment Information
   • Application Fee: Be prepared to submit payment for the WDAA show recognition application fee.

By gathering this information before starting your application, you’ll be well-prepared to complete the form efficiently and accurately. This will help WDAA process your application and confirm your show’s recognition status smoothly.

To ensure WDAA recognized show compliance, your prize list should include the following essential information:

Show Details

• Show Name: Clearly state the full name of the show.
• Show Dates: Include the start and end dates of the show.
• Location: Provide the venue name and address where the show will take place.
• WDAA Recognition Number: If already approved, include the WDAA show recognition number.
• WDAA Show Recognition Logo: Display the official WDAA show recognition logo on the prize list to signify WDAA recognition.

Judges and Officials

• Judge Name(s): List the names of the judges and their WDAA or USEF license levels.
• Steward : steward or designated equipment inspector, who will oversee compliance with WDAA rules regarding equipment, tack, and attire.

Eligibility and Membership Requirements

• WDAA Membership Requirement: State that WDAA membership is required for exhibitors to earn points in WDAA award programs (WHLPAP and YEHP).
• Horse Identification Requirement: Specify that horses must have a WDAA Horse Number, Breed Registration Number, or USEF Horse Number to be eligible for points.
• WDAA Membership Form: WDAA Membership Online: Include a link to the WDAA website (https://www.westerndressageassociation.org/)  for non-members to join or renew before the show.

Classes and Divisions

• List of Classes and Divisions: Provide a comprehensive list of the classes and divisions offered, matching WDAA-recognized categories (e.g., Junior, Amateur, Open, Gaited Horse, Exceptional Rider).
• Class Levels: Include levels (e.g., Introductory, Basic, Level 1-5) for each class, ensuring compliance with WDAA guidelines.

Rules and Regulations

• WDAA Test Requirements: Specify that only current WDAA tests will be used in the competition.
• Tack and Attire Checks: Mention that tack and attire will be checked according to WDAA standards, with a knowledgeable person or steward overseeing compliance.

Entry Information

• Exhibitor and Horse Information: Indicate that entry forms must include the exhibitor’s WDAA membership number and horse identification number for compliance.
• Deadline and Fees: Clearly state the entry deadline, fees, and any additional costs for participating in specific classes or divisions.

Including these elements in your prize list helps ensure WDAA recognized show compliance, clarifying requirements for exhibitors and maintaining WDAA standards.

To achieve WDAA show recognition approval, show organizers must collect specific data from competitors, which meets the universal requirements for all WDAA award programs. These data requirements ensure compliance with WDAA standards, regardless of the program:

1. Exhibitor Information
   • Exhibitor Name
   • WDAA Membership Number (essential for competitors earning points; non-members should be noted)
2. Horse Information
   • Horse Name
   • Horse Identification Number, which may be one of the following:
     • WDAA Horse Number
     • Breed Registration Number
     • USEF Horse Number
3. Class and Division Information
   • Detailed class and division entries to allow accurate points allocation and award tracking.

By collecting this standardized data, show organizers ensure WDAA show recognition compliance, enabling accurate results tracking for both the WDAA Horse Lifetime Points and Awards Program (WHLPAP) and the Year-End High Point Program (YEHP).

WDAA Show Results Correction Policy

Purpose
The WDAA Show Results Correction Policy establishes a standard process for submitting and processing corrections or changes to official show results. This policy ensures accuracy in WDAA’s results tracking system and maintains fairness for all participants.

1. Correction Eligibility
Corrections are eligible for processing under the following conditions:

• Clerical Errors: Mistakes in data entry, such as incorrect scores, placings, exhibitor information, or horse identification numbers.
• Calculation Errors: Incorrect point allocations or rankings due to miscalculations.
• Late-Reported Placings: Results that were initially missed or misreported by the show secretary.

Corrections that affect placements, points, or awards must be submitted promptly to ensure fair treatment for all competitors.

2. Submission Requirements
All correction requests must include:

• Original Show Name and Date: The name and date of the show where the error occurred.
• Detailed Correction Request: Clear details about the specific correction needed (e.g., exhibitor’s name, WDAA membership number, horse ID, class number, corrected score or placing).
• Reason for Correction: A brief explanation of the reason for the correction (e.g., scoring error, data entry mistake).
• Supporting Documentation: If applicable, include any supporting documentation, such as a screenshot of the original show record or correspondence with the show secretary verifying the correction.

3. Correction Submission Process

1. Initiate Correction Request: Show organizers or authorized representatives should submit correction requests via email to the designated WDAA results team (e.g., results@westerndressageassociation.org).
2. Deadline for Submission: Corrections must be submitted within 30 days of the original results submission to WDAA. Corrections submitted after this period may not be processed unless exceptional circumstances apply.
3. Follow-Up Confirmation: After submitting the correction request, organizers should follow up with the WDAA results team to confirm receipt and review status.

4. Processing and Approval

1. Review by WDAA Staff: WDAA staff will review the correction request and verify the details provided. This includes confirming the legitimacy of the correction and ensuring it meets the criteria outlined in this policy.
2. Approval and Update: Upon approval, WDAA will update the results in the official system and, if applicable, adjust points or awards affected by the correction.
3. Notification: Once the correction is processed, WDAA will notify the show organizer or the person who submitted the correction request.

5. Limitations and Exceptions

• Non-Member Data: Corrections for non-member data will not be reflected in WDAA’s points programs or online results, as non-member information is not imported into the WDAA system.
• Unsubmitted Results: Corrections cannot be processed if original results were never submitted to WDAA.
• Changes Post-30 Days: Requests made more than 30 days after the original submission may only be considered under exceptional circumstances, with final discretion left to WDAA.

6. Final Authority
WDAA reserves the right to make the final decision on all correction requests, including whether to accept corrections after the 30-day period or to deny corrections if supporting documentation is insufficient.

The WDAA Year-End High Point Program (YEHP) celebrates horses excelling in Western Dressage competitions throughout a competition year. Through the YEHP, horses earn points based on their performance at WDAA-recognized shows. Awards and recognition are given to high-achieving horses across various divisions and levels. This program is free for WDAA members, providing a way for competitors to track their horse’s progress and accomplishments year-over-year. Please note, non-WDAA members are not eligible to participate in YEHP.

Horses enrolled in WDAA programs can earn points exclusively at WDAA-recognized shows. This includes online shows, live in-person events, and USEF-licensed competitions.

WDAA offers multiple types of show recognition to accommodate different formats and affiliations. Each type of recognition ensures compliance with WDAA standards while supporting a variety of competition environments:

1. WDAA Live Show Recognition

• For traditional in-person Western Dressage competitions.
• Requires the use of WDAA-approved judges, current WDAA tests, and adherence to all WDAA show recognition rules.

2. WDAA Online Show Recognition

• For virtual Western Dressage competitions, where exhibitors submit videos of their rides.
• Online shows must meet WDAA standards, including using approved judges and following current WDAA test requirements.

3. USEF-Licensed Show Recognition

• For shows sanctioned by the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF).
• These shows are automatically eligible for WDAA recognition if they meet the dual compliance requirements for both USEF and WDAA rules.

4. Breed-Recognized Show Recognition

• For breed-specific shows that include Western Dressage classes.
• These shows must follow WDAA standards for recognized classes, including the use of WDAA-approved tests and qualified judges.

5. Combined Recognitions

• For shows seeking recognition from multiple associations (e.g., WDAA, USEF, or breed organizations).
• The show must meet WDAA rules and guidelines for Western Dressage classes, regardless of the additional recognitions it holds.

Each type of recognition ensures that results from the show are eligible for WDAA points programs like WHLPAP and YEHP, provided all requirements are met. Organizers should choose the type of recognition that best fits their show’s format and affiliations.

Show secretaries must submit official results within 14 days of each show’s end date to ensure timely processing and point updates.

For year-end awards in the WDAA Year-End High Point Program (YEHP), all results must be received by January 15. Results received after this date will not be accepted or included in final YEHP tabulations. Year-end processing begins January 15, and no late results can be accommodated.

Shows that do not submit official results may lose WDAA recognition and may not be approved to recognize future competitions.

WDAA is not responsible for errors or omissions, including results not submitted by show management.

It’s recommended to submit your show for WDAA recognition at least 60 days before the show date. This allows enough time for the application to be processed, any necessary adjustments to be made, and for your show to be officially recognized. Early submission also ensures your event can be promoted on WDAA platforms, giving members time to find and plan for your show.

Applications submitted less than 30 days before the show will incur a $25 late fee and may experience delays in processing. Planning ahead ensures your show meets WDAA requirements and maximizes exposure to potential exhibitors.