It used to be a tradition in New Jersey’s Somerset Hills. But the spring dressage schooling show presented by the New Jersey Region Pony Clubs has not been held for several years.
“We missed having that early show to get our shaggy ponies out again,” said Brita Tansey, District Commissioner of Somerset Hills Pony Club.
“It was a great, low-key way to get back into the ring before the Northeast show and rally season started in earnest, so we decided to revive it.”
The April 11 show is coming back at the U.S. Equestrian Team Foundation’s historic Gladstone stables and is open to everyone. There are English and western dressage classes for all ages. Offered are U.S. Dressage Federation levels from Intro A through Fourth Level and western dressage and eventing tests of choice.
The entry fee will be $50 per test. Tests will be run in two rings judged by Kari Allen, USDF L with Distinction, and Kelsey Johnson, USDF L. A special feature will be lead-line Intro A and Intro B tests, which are open to riders of all ages.
“We’d love to see kids leading their dads or grandmas around the ring,” said Brita.
“While we’re offering a ‘real’ schooling show with certified judges, we also want to encourage everyone to have fun, not to be so worried about a perfect test or perfectly groomed horse.”
Ribbons will be awarded on the Danish system, with placement determined by score rather than comparison to other riders.
All proceeds from the show will benefit SHPC, a 501c3 organization, and will especially help support club
members who wish to attend the USPC National Festival Championships in Kentucky this July.
“We already have several members who have qualified to compete in dressage and other disciplines,” said
Brita.
“We’d love to help them afford the trip. It takes a village, so we’re asking all our local dressage riders to be part of the SHPC village.”
Interested riders can download the entry form from the SHPC website at somersethillspc.org/shows.
Equine health certificates are not required, only Coggins tests dated within 12 months of the show date.
Closing date is April 1, 2026.