Lexington, KY (June 16, 2015) ? The United States Dressage Federation (USDF) announced today that, beginning in the 2016 competition year, it will now award new Adequan/USDF Para-Dressage Rider of the Year Awards.  These awards will recognize Para-Dressage riders' accomplishments at each grade level; Ia, Ib, II, III, and IV.

            Champions and reserve champions at each grade level will receive a plaque, to be awarded annually, at the Salute Gala and Annual Awards Banquet during the Adequan/USDF Annual Convention.  The top three finishers in each grade level will also be recognized in the yearbook issue of USDF Connection. 

            Hope Hand, United States Para-Equestrian Association (USPEA) President, expressed that "The USPEA is excited to help promote the new Adequan/USDF Para-Dressage Rider of the Year Awards to recognize our accomplished riders.  USPEA looks forward to the 2016 year, and we encourage everyone to compete, volunteer, and support show management for providing more opportunities for Para-Dressage."

            For more information about the Adequan/USDF Para-Dressage Rider of the Year Awards, or other year-end award programs, visit the USDF website at www.usdf.org/awards, or contact the USDF office at [email protected].

Founded in 1973, the United States Dressage Federation is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to education, recognition of achievement, and promotion of dressage. For more information about USDF membership or programs, visit www.usdf.org, email [email protected], or call (859) 971-2277.