DVCTA’s has so far been involved with a total of six L Programs. The first was in 1976 in a format created by Col. Bengt Ljungquist. At that time the AHSA (now USEF) was responsible for judge’s training. USDF would not take over the L Program until 1986. The first session was taught by Sally O’Connor on December 10-12, 1976 and included classroom work, practical demonstrations, and judging of Training through Third Level rides. The next sessions were rescheduled on the advice of Michael Handler who had recently been appointed Director for all AHSA (now USEF) Learner Judge’s Programs. The second session taught by Sally O’Connor was ultimately moved to July and the third took place in September 1977 and was taught by Hans Moeller and Betty Howett. This session included a DVCTA Schooling Show with horses from Training through Third Level.
The USDF “L” program has two parts. Part 1, “A Judge’s Perspective,” consists of sessions A (intro to judging and biomechanics), B (judging criteria for gaits and paces, movements, and figures), and C (collective marks, equitation, rider biomechanics, basics, and freestyle). Part 2, “Candidate Evaluation,” consists of session D2 (more judging) and the final examination. Auditors are welcome to attend Sessions A, B, and C.
In 1993 DVCTA ran its first USDF sanctioned L Program. Sessions A and B took place on March 19-21 and were taught by Elizabeth Madlener. Session C was taught by J. Ashton Moore and took place May 22 and 23. Session D was conducted by Elisabeth Searle and Axel Steiner on September 11 and 12.
In 1999 DVCTA ran its second USDF L Program, the ten graduates are listed below:
In 2007, DVCTA ran its third USDF L Program. It took place at New Bolton Center and Laurel Hill Farm. Session A was taught by Lois Yukins and Betsy Berry; Session B by Marilyn Heath; and Session C by Trenna Atkins. The final exam was at Lexington, VA in October of 2008. All ten candidates passed, two with distinction which allowed them to apply for the r Program:
Sessions A, B, and C were written up by Jennifer Bryant and published in the USDF Connection:
The fourth USDF L Program was in 2012-2013:
DVCTA is about to run its fifth USDF L Program. Thirty-eight participants from previous DVCTA programs have earned L certification since the program was taken over by USDF. For information click on the L Program link under Education at the top of the web page. All 20 candidate spots are filled but auditors are welcome and can sign up at the last minute. This is a wonderful educational opportunity even if you do not wish to become a judge or even to compete.
