USDF Convention: An Overview

Disney World in sunny Florida was the sight for the 2007 United States Dressage Federation Annual Convention. From November 28th through December 2nd the Coronado Resort was packed with horse people from all over the country.

This year I served as the delegate for NDA. It was an interesting job, I greatly enjoyed participating in the Board of Governors (BOG) and interacting with other leaders from GMO's in Region IV. The BOG is a body comprised of GMO delegates and participating member (PM) delegates from each region. It meets annually to discuss issues from all the committees in USDF.

A highlight for me was on Saturday when the BOG heard from David O'Connor, the president of USEF (and Olympian). He discussed the upcoming World Equestrian Games, and how USEF is preparing to host the event. From his testimony, it seems Kentucky is well on it's way to being ready for 2010. O'Connor was complimentary of USDF's commitment to working with USEF, he praised our organization for offering joint membership status checks online.

In addition to meetings, the convention also offered lectures. This year's focus was on horse health. Well respected farriers, and veterinarians spoke on all aspects of the horse. I attended a fascinating lecture on the structure of the hoof. Other lectures covered lameness, footing concerns, sport horses, and alternative therapies.

Not only is the convention packed with meetings and lectures, but there is also the annual awards banquet. Think NDA banquet on a MUCH larger Scale. If you have medaled or won Rider or horse awards through USDF you can pick them up in person. This year, Floriano, Steffen Peter's former mount won the coveted horse of the year title. Not a bad way to end a career together!

Of course, when speaking of the Convention, you can't leave out the trade fair. Over 40 different vendor's were on site. Everything from breeches to supplements, stationery, decorative items, pajamas, organic horse treats and every thing in between. Truly a budget buster!

In 2008 the USDF annual convention will be held in Denver, Colorado. Next year, in conjunction with the convention there will also be a Symposium. The USDF Symposium traditionally attracts the best of the best from US and international trainers, so mark your calendars! The Convention is open to all members and even non-members of USDF.