About
Founded in 1997, the Dressage Association of Southern California was once a grass-roots association and GMO of USDF focused on licensing dressage competitions and providing only local educational opportunities. In 2020 Regina Antonioli proposed to the Board a revised approach channeling funds to assist the California dressage community. Building on these ideas, it morphed into the charitable organization it is today.
The Association now provides aid in times of need, as well as educational and competition grants to those in the California Dressage community. We seek to foster sportsmanship and promote the discipline of Dressage including Para and Western Dressage, both through these grants and scholarships as well as educational and competition programs.
Why Our Benefit Show
Following the pandemic in 2020 there were no CDIs in California. Producing an international event seemed like a large undertaking for a newly revamped association. But assessing the great need for our California Dressage riders, we decided to jump in and make it our first fundraiser. Now in its fourth year, the show has been a great success. In 2022 it was the largest Dressage show in the state. In addition to providing a top-level competition, we strive to offer an event with an atmosphere of community, excitement, and fun. The show continues to be our most successful fundraiser.
Mission Statement of DAC
The Dressage Association of Southern California, now Dressage Association of California, is a charitable organization that works to assist members of the Dressage community in California. Providing aid in times of need and educational and competition grants. The Association seeks to foster sportsmanship and promote the discipline of Dressage both through these grants and scholarships as well as through educational and competition programs.
Grants & Scholarships
Career Advancement Scholarships
The Association offers scholarships to obtain or upgrade licenses as Dressage judges, technical delegates, stewards, show managers and secretary. The association also offers scholarships for those wanting to become or upgrade their status as USDF Certified Instructors. Applicants must be a member.
Clinic Scholarship
The Association offers funds to help juniors, amateurs and young professionals who need financial aid to attend clinics to help advance their riding and/or training. Applicants who demonstrate financial hardship will have preference. Applicants must be a member.
Competition Grant
The Association offers funds to assist with travel costs for California riders competing in qualifying national or international events outside of the state. Applicants who demonstrate financial hardship will have preference. Applicants must be a member.
Hardship Grant
The Association offers funds to assist with expenses in times of unexpected need caused by, but not limited to, such occurrences as natural disasters or medical emergencies. Applicants must be nominated by a member and have an additional reference or provide two references. Applicants do not have to be members but must have proof of involvement in the California Dressage Community and must demonstrate financial need.