Learning dressage tests may be a constant struggle, but the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) hopes a new iPod application could help make errors of course a thing of the past.
Developed in conjunction with Canada-based Numen Communications Inc, EquiTests is currently only available for the FEI eventing dressage tests.
But versions for FEI dressage and para-equestrian dressage are due to be launched later this year.
The “app”, compatible with an iPhone or iPod Touch, allows users to read the dressage test instructions, view the marking criteria and see animated diagrams of the movements.
Riders can pre-record readings of the test with the movements timed to match their individual horse to play back as they ride.
“I’d definitely try it — when I first started it would take me a week to learn a dressage test,” said double young rider eventing gold medallist Georgie Spence.
“Now I memorise them in the lorry on the way to an event, but having something to look at and remind me of the movements would help.”
Two versions of the app are available to download on Apple iTunes.
FEI EquiTests 1 is free and relates to just one test – the FEI Young Riders Individual Competition Test.
FEI EquiTests 2 is the full version and includes all 2009 FEI Eventing Dressage Tests. It costs £6.40.
Audio recordings of dressage tests are already available to download onto mp3 via AudioDressage.com.
For more equestrian-themed mobile apps visit: www.equiapps.com
