The United States Dressage Federation (USDF) will hold its National Convention & Symposium, November 30 - December 4, 2005 in Los Angeles, California.  The convention will be shortened by one day, with governance meetings beginning on Wednesday, November 30.  This change in format will reduce participant expense and time requirements without compromising USDF work accomplished.  It will also allow more members to participate in business and governance meetings, USDF University educational sessions, awards presentations, and social activities.  Attendance at the National Convention is one of the best ways for USDF members to participate in the decision-making process of the organization and feel a part of USDF.    

This year's National Symposium will give participants the extraordinary opportunity to learn from U.S. Dressage Team coach Klaus Balkenhol. "Dressage," as expressed by Balkenhol, "becomes an art only when it's a joy for the horse as well as for us." Klaus Balkenhol was coach of the 2004 U.S. Bronze Medal Olympic, 2002 U.S. Silver Medal World Equestrian Games, and 2000 German Gold Medal Olympic Teams.  Also presenting with Klaus Balkenhol will be Gerd Heuschmann, D.V.M., the 1989-1990 division head of breeding for the German National Federation.

The National Symposium will begin with a lecture format on Friday night, December 2, and will continue with demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday at the Los Angeles Equestrian Center.

Los Angeles promises to provide the perfect setting for activities outside the convention.  Be sure to check www.usdf.org for future updates, as they become available, on workshops, lectures, governance meetings, the USDF Trade Expo and much more.  Details will be updated weekly.

Founded in 1973, the United States Dressage Federation is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to education, recognition of achievement, and promotion of dressage. For more information about USDF membership or programs, visit www.usdf.org, email usdressage@usdf.org, or call (859) 971-2277.