USDF Region 9 Report

In September of this year, Austin Dressage Unlimited (ADU) was formed. A subchapter of San Antonio's GMO, Alamo Dressage Association , ADU has grown quickly to over 80 members. Sixteen co-chairs man the working positions of the education-oriented organization. Member Cean Embrey created ADU University which offers a positive way to monitor and grow one's riding skills within an annual structure. Students will pair up with ADU-approved "dressage mentors" and declare their riding and educational goals for the year, pledging to follow one of five ADU University training tracks. The student's activities will be recorded in a provided journal. Monthly evaluations will be performed between the student and mentor. A variety of pre-determined requirements must be met for completion of this program.

Self-responsiblity and dedication will reflect in ADU end-of-the-year awards. Awards are to be determined by a rider's advancement within their own right rather than against each other. Folks who achieve USDF medals by year's end will be honored as well. Other riding disciplines (such as eventing, driving and sporthorse versatility) which benefit from dressage training are welcome within the umbrella of the organization via the use of liasons. There is also a liason for breeders. ADU offers a multi-level show format (formal, informal, recognized). For more information: http://austindressageunlimited.blogspot.com/ or http://www.alamodressage.org/index.htm.