What Are Rider Qualifications?
In the Japan Equestrian Federation, the certification indicating sufficient riding skills and knowledge, known as ‘Rider Qualifications,’ is awarded. The levels are broadly divided into A to C grades. Additionally, there are endurance-only grades A to C, and arena-only B grade.
The Federation’s sanctioned competitions require participants to have at least Level B Rider Qualification as a prerequisite. If you aspire to participate in major competitions, consider working towards obtaining this資格.
Difference From Riding Skill Certification
In Japan, besides riding qualifications awarded by the Japan Equestrian Federation, there is the Riding Skill Test by the National Riding Club Promotion Association.
This test is divided into five levels from 1 to 5, including British and Western riding variants. When progressing up to level 3 for British riding, the test branches into different categories like endurance level 3, jumping level 3, and arena level 2.
The test for level 5 is mainly about executing a trot, making it more accessible than the C grade qualification from the Japan Equestrian Federation. While rider qualifications are competition-oriented, the riding skill test is a standardized way for riders to gauge their skill levels domestically.
What Is C-Grade Qualification?
Exam Eligibility
If you are a member of the Japan Equestrian Federation, you can take the exam which involves written and practical tests. Passing this C grade qualifies you to apply for the B grade, arena-only B grade, or endurance C grade.
Assessment Criteria
The written exam often focuses on horse anatomy and equipment, with scores of 80 or higher required to pass. The practical test involves in-ring riding with trot, lead changes, and crossing poles, mainly at a trot but sometimes at a canter.
The practical exam passing score is 50%, and the path is open to mistakes, so stay calm and focus on the next move even if you slip up.
Endurance C Grade
Upon passing the C grade rider qualification, you can take the endurance C level test, which includes an instructional workshop, written exam, and practical test. The passing score for the written part remains 80 points or higher.
Many advance to the B grade, but if your focus is endurance competitions, advancing here may suit your goals.
B Grade Qualification
Exam Eligibility and Requirements
To qualify, you must be a member of the Japan Equestrian Federation and have obtained C grade qualification. The exam includes written and practical components, covering arena and jumping exercises. Passing the B grade opens up opportunities to compete in Federation-sanctioned competitions across Japan.
Note: For details on other requirements, see the specific competition guidelines.
Assessment Criteria
The written test covers horse anatomy, equipment, and breeds. The practical test’s evaluation includes performance in the arena (JEF dressage second test) with a score of 45% or higher and at least 6 points for jumping courses. The emphasis is on harmony with the horse and agility rather than speed, so stay composed and aim for a smooth performance.
Limited to Dressage and Endurance
Specific rider qualifications exist for these categories:
B Grade Dressage
Requires C grade qualification, with written and practical tests (JEF Second Dressage). Eligibility is limited to dressage competitions sanctioned by the Japan Equestrian Federation.
B Grade Endurance
Requires endurance C level qualification, with workshops, written, and practical exams, allowing participation only in endurance events.
Transition From Other Qualifications
The Federation recognizes some other qualifications equivalent to B grade through a simple registration process, attaching proof and paying a registration fee. This process does not require additional exams.
Recognized qualifications include:
- National Riding Club Promotion Association: Level 2 Jumping
- Japan Adult Equestrian Federation: A Grade Skills
- All Japan Student Equestrian League: SA Grade Rider
- All Japan High School Equestrian Federation: HB Grade Rider
- Japan Equestrian Youth Federation: Intermediate Skills
A Grade Qualification
The A grade qualification is necessary for participating in international competitions. It requires being a qualified B grade rider with significant competition experience, confirmed by document review. There are no exams; it’s based solely on paperwork. The same applies to the endurance-only qualification at this level.
Cost of Licensing
Finally, let’s review the costs involved in obtaining these qualifications.
Initially, if not a member of the Japan Equestrian Federation or the prefectural federation, you need to join. Fees vary by region; check with riding clubs or review the competition guidelines.
Japan Equestrian Federation Membership Fee: ¥7,000
Annual Fee: ¥10,000
Prefectural Federation Joining Fee: ¥2,000–3,000
Annual Fee: ¥10,000 (approx.)
The test fees for C to B grades are set by the organizers, with a maximum of ¥8,000, though costs like horse rent and facility use might add to the total, sometimes exceeding ¥10,000.
Exam fee: Up to ¥8,000 (+ horse rent, facility fees, etc.)
Once passed, registration with the federation incurs a fee:
Registration Fee: B grade: ¥6,600; C grade: ¥3,300 (includes endurance C grade)
Summary
In Japan, horse riding licenses are primarily issued by the Japan Equestrian Federation (through Rider Qualifications) and the National Riding Club Promotion Association (through Riding Skill Tests). Although licenses are not mandatory for riding, they are a good way to assess your skills, aim for competitions, and track your progress based on your goals.