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What is Quadrille?
Quadrille
is most simply defined as team riding. The most famous, readily identifiable
quadrilles are those of the Spanish Riding School, the Cadre Noir and the Royal
Canadian Mounted Police.
Although quadrille as an equestrian pageant has been performed since the Baroque
period, only in the last decade has it become a competitive sport in this
country. Competitive teams of four riders perform both compulsory and musical
freestyle routines. It is an activity suitable to persons of all ages, including
youth groups such as 4-H and Pony Club.
Why Do
It?
Quadrille offers equestrian education in riding, training, and rider/horse
communication in a group atmosphere of teamwork and camaraderie. It's a great
way to get green riders and horses used to competing without a lot of pressure.
And, it's fun!
Who Can Do It?
The minimum requirements for quadrille are four compatible horses (and riders)
and a practice facility. In competition we use teams of four, while teams of 6,
8, 12 or more can be used in exhibition rides.
Although matched horses look best, the ability to work and perform together is
paramount. Differences in shapes and colors tend to disappear with uniform
turnout and crisp performances.
Quadrille teams are crowd pleasers-whether in traditional dress or costume.
Teams have performed at state and county fairs, benefits, horse shows and
racetracks.
How To Do It
In a quadrille competition the main criteria is the team's performance as a
cohesive group. Compulsory routines test the team's ability to perform required
movements according to acceptable standards. In the exciting Freestyle, the
routines are more complex, creating a "kaleidoscope effect" as horses interweave
choreography and music in original patterns.
In each performance, judges look for the teams to keep even spacing (from horse
to horse), move and turn in synchrony and maintain alignment throughout the
ride. In the freestyle competition, the team's artistic skill is showcased in
the interpretation of the music and the creativity of their choreography.
(taken from the USDF website www.usdf.org/Programs/Quadrille/index.asp )
