serving the dressage community in the Utah area by providing
educational events, dressage shows, awards programs and
a collection of dressage and general equestrian resources

Mission Statement

The Utah Dressage Society (UDS), an affiliate of the United States Dressage Federation (USDF), exists to educate, promote, encourage, and inspire its members and the general public through programs, publications, and competitions, in a way that enhances the image of dressage and promotes the welfare of the horse.

Dressage is the gradual, harmonious advancement of the horse, both physically and mentally, to develop its natural abilities and to make riding a graceful and pleasurable experience. The programs of the society shall be educational and competitive and provide a framework in which individuals can progress with the schooling of their horses and themselves.

History of the Utah Dressage Society

The Utah Dressage Society was founded in 1969 by a small group of dressage enthusiasts including Johanna and Eva Adolphi. Eight people came to the first meeting.

The first Utah Dressage Society Annual Show was held on August 19, 1972. There were 25 horses and 33 riders; several horses were ridden more than once. In 1975 the UDS Annual Show had its first recognized dressage show with Elizabeth Friedlander Searle as the judge. Each August the UDS continues to host the UDS Annual Show, now with 200 rides over two days in two rings with 2 "S" judges.

The UDS now has nearly 200 members and will continue to grow as dressage spreads through the "wild west".