U.S. Dressage Federation Recognizes Gretchen DeMone as Graduate of "L" Education Program for Judges

Oct. 27, 2009 - PRLog -- The United States Dressage Federation (USDF) has recognized Gretchen DeMone of Rehoboth, MA as a Graduate of the Learner ("L") Education Program for Judges, which focuses on the evaluative techniques of judging dressage and is a prerequisite for entering the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) “r” Judges Training Program.
DeMone is a USDF Silver Medalist and a USDF Certified Instructor/Trainer Training through Second Level.  Describing herself as a "perpetual learner," entering the USDF "L" program was a logical next step in continuing her education in dressage.
“The aspect I love the most about dressage is that it is a life-long learning process.  I am thankful that the USDF has created educational programs through which dressage professionals can further their knowledge and skills,” said DeMone.  
The rigorous “L” program requires that candidates develop a sharp eye for the correct basics, understand the biomechanics of horse and riders, and have a concise vocabulary to describe it all.  “Not only did the intensity of the year long “L” program prepare me for the final exam and, subsequently, to become an “L” graduate, it also improved my teaching and training,” said DeMone.
An active competitor, DeMone has taught classical Dressage and trained horses for over 10 years.  She earned her Silver Medal aboard her horse Gershwin in 2008.  In 2007, the pair was chosen to ride for the USDF Region 8 Adult Clinic and received a New England Dressage Association Training Scholarship.  
For the past four years, DeMone has trained with USEF "S" Judge and USDF Instructor Certification Examiner, Kathy Connelly. Connelly commended DeMone on this achievement, saying "Gretchen is a very talented rider, competitor and trainer in addition to being a terrific person.  I am so happy she is pursuing her judge's license.  She will be a great judge."
The "L" Judges Training Program is comprised of education and evaluation elements.  Candidates are tested on their knowledge of the fundamentals of dressage, and are required to evaluate horses and riders alongside a USEF licensed judge as part of the testing process. To pass the final exam, the candidate's scores must track very closely with the official's scores, which in a subjective sport such as dressage can be a difficult feat.
The Central Vermont Dressage Association hosted the six, two-day long educational sessions, practice tests, and the final exam for the "L" program.  The final exam on September 11 and 12 was held at the USEF Recognized New England Dressage Association Fall Festival.  
A side benefit of the “L” program was the camaraderie that developed between the participants themselves.  DeMone said, “We all had a true interest in learning and improving.  We encouraged each other along the way and worked as a cohesive group.  It was a lot of hard work and a lot of fun!”  
The "L" program is required for anyone who wants to pursue their USEF “r” judge license.  After that license, the USEF recognizes "R" and "S" judges, with increasing levels of experience and education required for each successive level.  Graduates of the USDF "L" program may judge schooling shows, but because they are not licensed with the USEF which is the governing body of equestrian sports, they cannot judge a recognized dressage competition.
DeMone enjoys working with all breeds of horses and teaching motivated students.  She focuses on correct dressage basics and incorporates jumping & trail riding into her cross training program. For more information on DeMone, visit www.gretchendemone.com.

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