.::About Ride 4 Hope::.
What happened to the "Quadrille Challenge?" Why was the name changed?
In 2012, we decided to expand the Ride 4 Hope Challenge from the "Quadrille Challenge" to the "Musical Challenge" to allow Pas de Deux and Musical Freestyle riders the chance to compete and raise money for St. Jude.
What is a Quadrille?
A quadrille is a choregraphed dressage performance in which four or more horse and rider pairs compete together. Quadrilles can be equated with synchronized swimming. At the Ride 4 Hope Quadrille Challenge, each team performs a musical freestyle - that is, their routine is choregraphed to music. The routine should last no more than five minutes and while the style of music is optional, there should not be lyrics present.
What is the purpose of the Musical Challenge?
The purpose of Ride 4 Hope is threefold. First and foremost, it serves as fun way to raise money for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in order to help sick children get the care and treatment they need. Secondly, the challenge is a competition between teams (quadrilles and pas de deuxs) and individuals; Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals are awarded and presented to the top three teams and individuals. Teams will compete against each other, while individual Freestyle riders will compete against each other. Lastly, as a spectator event, Ride 4 Hope is recreational for fun even for non-participants.
How is the money raised?
Money is raised in multiple ways. Before the show, each participant is asked to collect a minimum of $100 from friends and family who cannot attend the event. On the day of the show, any and all spectators have the opportunity to vote for their favorite team or freestyle with money, increasing the team's chances of winning. Side fundraisers also take place such as raffles, and anyone can make a flat donation at any time.
How does a team/rider win?
Each performance is judged by two dressage judges in a similar fashion to any freestyle test. The judges' scores are averaged to determine each team's or individual's score. After the performances, spectators are encouraged to vote for their favorite ride with money. Each dollar equals one percentage point to be added onto the total score for each team. Teams compete against each other, while individual freestyle riders compete separately against only other individuals.
When and where does the challenge take place?
The Ride 4 Hope Musical Challenge is held at the Northeast Pennsylvania Show Series (NPASS) Championships each year. Riders do not have to compete in the championships to compete in the Challenge, though Musical Freestyle riders may ride their freestyle for the Championship (if qualified) and Ride 4 Hope simultaneously if they desire. The NPASS Championships take place at Hidden Creek Equestrian Center, in Kunkletown, Pennsylvania. Click here for more information.