November 8, 2010 - The 2011 rules have been finalized and Dressage Canada thanks everyone who took the time to send in their comments on the proposed changes for 2011. While the proposal to have riders wear approved helmets in the warm-up arena has been tabled for 2011, we have added our voice to that of Equine Canada and strongly recommend all riders wear ASTM/SEI approved protective headgear at all times of competition. This is now clearly stated in the introduction to Chapter 4 (Dress, Saddlery and Equipment). As in 2010, adult riders will be able to retain their choice of headgear within the current dress rules.

In the coming year, we invite all riders, coaches and owners to debate this issue of whether rules surrounding the use of protective headgear by adult riders in dressage competition should be adopted in the future. Dressage Canada will again be canvassing your opinions on this issue in order to determine a policy that is acceptable to the majority of the participants.

All the input received on 2011 rule change proposals has been kept on file and will be included in any future survey.

The Dressage Canada Rules Committee and the Dressage Canada Board wishes everyone a safe and successful winter of training.