Getting Started
Welcome to the exciting sport of Working Equitation (WE).
Originally developed in Europe to showcase the skills of Lusitano horses and riders working in the fields with livestock, Working Equitation has grown into a truly international sport. In the United States, USA Working Equitation (USAWE) celebrates that heritage while opening the doors to all horse breeds, riding disciplines, tack, attire, and traditions. This sport blends tradition, skill, and partnership between horse and rider.
Working Equitation competitions are made up of four possible trials. Each one highlights different skills and challenges for horse and rider:
- Dressage Trial – Tests accuracy, rhythm, and harmony through a set pattern of movements.
- Ease of Handling (EOH) Trial – An obstacle course designed to show balance, precision, and control, always with dressage fundamentals in mind.
- Speed Trial – A timed obstacle course where accuracy and efficiency meet speed and excitement. (Intro level does not include this trial.)
- Cattle Trial – A team penning event that demonstrates partnership, agility, and teamwork. Not always offered, since it requires cattle facilities.
Not all shows include all four trials, but together they represent the full spirit and versatility of the sport.
Some riders embrace Working Equitation as their primary competitive sport, while others use it as an outstanding cross-training opportunity that strengthens communication, builds trust, and develops versatility between horse and rider.
Whether you are new to competition, advancing through the levels, or simply looking for a fun and challenging way to deepen your partnership with your horse, Working Equitation welcomes you. Riders of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences are invited to participate and enjoy everything this sport has to offer.
Getting Started with USA Working Equitation
To help you get started, read through the basics.
Resources
REQUIREMENTS
RESOURCES
All Dressage Tests – Rules Appendix A
Local (Assistance & Opportunities)
COMPETITION LOGISTICS
Real-Time Scoring Results – Gira.io
1. Become a Member
- Join USA Working Equitation to compete. Membership runs January 1 – December 31.
- Your state determines your Region, which connects you to local opportunities.
- As a member, you and your recorded horse are eligible for awards!
2. Record Your Horse
- Your horse must be recorded with USAWE before submitting a show application.
- Recording is simple, inexpensive, and permanent.
- You’ll need your horse’s birthdate and breed information.
3. Getting Started Manual
- Competitors are responsible for knowing the rules, but the Getting Started Manual highlights key information to begin competing successfully.
- It includes penalty summaries for each trial, making it a handy reference to keep with your show gear.
- Have no fear. For those new to Working Equitation, our L1 level allows you to dive in without worry as we’ve eliminated disqualifications for performance issues and allow you time to get comfortable with the different trials and expectations.
4. Rules & Individual Tests
- The U.S. Rules for Working Equitation are updated each spring; additional updates may be released as needed.
- Always check the website and emails for the latest rules before attending a show.
- Reading the full rulebook ensures you know how to handle situations on course and avoid disqualification.
- At-a-glance tables summarize penalties, but the full rulebook is your guide to the best strategies in each trial.
5. Tack and Attire
- A neat, complete presentation is crucial in Dressage and EOH. They allow you to show respect for the sport and make a strong impression on judges. You don’t need to be fancy, but dirty, inappropriate tack or lack of a well groomed horse? Yes, your score will be a bit lower.
- Use the Guide to WE Tack and Attire for U.S. Competitions to ensure your equipment and attire meet expectations.
6. Rider Dispensation
- If you have a permanent issue requiring adaptive equipment or rule exceptions, apply for a Rider Dispensation Certificate.
- Certificates must be included with each show entry and brought to competitions.
- Dispensation is for riders only, but veterinary issues for horses can be appealed to the Rules Committee.
7. Local Assistance and Opportunities
- Regional Directors keep local social media active, answer questions, and serve as a bridge to the Board of Directors.
- Professional Instructors: Certified instructors are available in some regions to provide high-quality WE training.
- Affiliate Organizations: Groups that host clinics, schooling shows, and other learning opportunities.
8. Licensed Competition List
- Find all currently licensed shows to plan your competition season.
9. Competition Results: Gira.io
- USAWE uses Gira.io for scoring whenever possible.
- Access show results as soon as they are entered.
- Search for “Working Equitation” to find results for yourself and friends.
10. The Leaderboards
- USAWE Leaderboards recognize outstanding horse/rider pairs at regional and national levels.
- Horse rankings are also available based on breed.