EA Dressage Bridle Numbers – Number Size Tolerance

In the most recent EA Dressage rule updates, a minimum bridle number height of 4cm was stipulated. The intent of the rule is to ensure officials, and more specifically judges and writers, can clearly identify the horse.  The EADC have received feedback and would like to emphasise the following:

• Numbers need to be clear and readable
• Numbers in plastic or leather holders with wide borders can be difficult to read
• Ensuring the number is clearly identifiable is the responsibly of the athlete

Some of the number holders with clear plastic windows currently in use are 4 cm with the numbers being slightly smaller; there are also state-issued numbers that are slightly less than 4 cm. The EADC is allowing a tolerance for a minimum number size of 3.5 cm – 4 cm with a view of encouraging athletes to display their numbers on their saddle cloths, when possible, to improve readability.   

Rule in the rulebook will read as follows with the clarification highlighted:

4.8.5     Horse Identification numbers and Stallion ID at events

Horse Identification numbers are compulsory for identification purposes and must be used at all times at an event so that the horse can be identified by all Officials including Stewards.

1. two numbers are required to be worn when competing – one on each side of the horse - preferably attached to both sides of the saddlecloth, or both sides of the bridle and must be clearly legible by the judge/s being a minimum of 3.5 - 4cm in height.
2. the Horse Identification Number must also be worn as described whenever the horse is being ridden/lunged/led/tethered or grazed from the time of their arrival on the grounds until the end of the event
3. identification numbers shall be in black text, clearly displayed on a white background.
4. green stallion identification discs or number holders must be worn by stallions at all times at an event
5. green stallion identification discs or number holders must be clearly displayed on both sides of the stallion’s head (attached to bridle or halter) or both sides of the saddle cloth on both sides of the breastplate: as per EA Stallion Safe Practices Policy
6. horse Identification numbers must be worn in addition to stallion discs, either as the green bridle identification number holder or the green stallion disc identification plus horse ID number

Failure to correctly wear Horse Identification Numbers will incur the following:

1. when led, grazed, lunged or ridden on the grounds. An initial verbal warning followed by the issuing of a Yellow Warning Card for further non-compliance
2. if the horse does enter in the competition arena not wearing correct identification numbers, -0.50% per judge is deducted