©Equestrian Life/Michelle Terlato

By Media Release

British Dressage is proud to announce that, in conjunction with the Traditional Gypsy Cob Association (TGCA), there will be a brand new series specifically aimed at those long-maned, long feathered four legged stars: the gypsy cob.

Covering intro, prelim and novice levels, gypsy cob combinations from all over Britain can qualify for the Traditional Gypsy Cob Championship Final, which will take place at Keysoe Equestrian Centre, Bedfordshire on 17 Oct 2015!

The Traditional Gypsy Cob Championship is open to existing British Dressage members, or non-BD members who have a cob registered with the TGCA. To qualify, intro and prelim riders must be registered with BD as a minimum of an associate member on an associated horse (both of which are free of charge). Those competing at novice must be either a full member of BD or use a class ticket (these can be purchased from the Shop). All horses taking part must also be registered as a dressage member (£15.00) with the TGCA.

Current TGCA members wishing to qualify at novice level can claim a free class ticket from BD to help kick start their qualification. To claim your ticket, click here to email the office.

But how do you qualify? It’s simple, a horse and rider combination must achieve two scores of 60% or above in either a BD or Team Quest competition between 1 Jan 2015 and 31 Sept 2015. Once you’ve got these scores, send an email or letter to Karen Beaumont at British Dressage, stating where and when you achieved your two qualifying scores. Karen will then process the results and you will receive your invitation to the final after the qualifying period has ended. Competitors who aren’t already paid BD members will be asked to become a minimum of a Team Quest Club member (£20.00) to compete in the championship final.

British Dressage Sports Operations Manager, Paul Graham commented: “We’re absolutely delighted to have formed a new, exciting association with the Traditional Gypsy Cob Association. It is testament that dressage is becoming more accessible to a much broader spectrum of horse and rider proving that, regardless of experience, breed or size, dressage is a sport enjoyable to all.”

BD, TGCA and Keysoe Equestrian Centre are planning great things for the Championship, so make sure any of you who are eligible keep the date free in your diary!

Still unsure how it all works? Download our easy-to-follow guide to the Traditional Gypsy Cob Championships.

Or, if you have any questions, please contact Karen Beaumont at British Dressage or Kellie Aldridge at the TGCA.

Source: British Dressage