The United States Lusitano Association (USLA) develops and supports a broad range of programs and events dedicated to the education, evaluation, recognition, and promotion of the Lusitano horse in the United States and Canada. These initiatives reflect USLA’s commitment to maintaining breed standards, supporting breeders and competitors, and fostering a knowledgeable and connected Lusitano community.

USLA Conferences

USLA Conferences are flagship educational events that bring together leading international experts in the Lusitano breed. These multi-day gatherings combine education, networking, and professional exchange, offering participants access to highly respected authorities in Lusitano sport, breeding, veterinary science, and industry analysis.

Conference programming typically includes:

• Educational symposia led by recognized experts
• Master Classes with elite riders and trainers
• Structured opportunities for breeders, owners, and riders to connect
• Forums focused on the future direction of the Lusitano in North America

USLA hosted its first conference in Wellington, Florida in 2023, followed by a second conference in Ocala, Florida in 2024, establishing a strong foundation for high-quality, breed-focused education.

Webinars

To expand educational access beyond in-person events, USLA offers webinars throughout the year. These online programs allow members and the broader community to learn directly from experts regardless of location.

USLA’s first webinar featured Dr. António Andrade Vicente, focusing on genetic evaluation and the Lusitano in relation to sport performance. Additional webinars are planned, with the next session scheduled for February, continuing USLA’s mission to provide timely, relevant, and accessible education.

Inspections

Breed inspections are a fundamental component of USLA’s mission and a cornerstone of Lusitano breed development in North America. Since the founding of USLA, the Association has hosted APSL inspections in both the United States and Canada every year.

Inspections are typically held in late September and early October and provide breeders and owners the opportunity to have their horses evaluated by APSL judges according to established breed standards. These inspections support:

• Objective assessment of Lusitano conformation and movement
• Advancement of breeding programs through formal evaluation
• Preservation of the integrity and quality of the breed

By coordinating and supporting annual inspections, USLA plays a critical role in maintaining direct alignment with international Lusitano breed standards.

USDF All Breeds Awards Participation

USLA participates in the USDF All Breeds Awards program, recognizing Lusitanos competing successfully in USEF/USDF-licensed dressage competitions. Through this program, USLA supports riders and owners by acknowledging Lusitano achievements at both regional and national levels, reinforcing the breed’s growing presence and competitiveness in dressage sport.

USLA High Point Ribbon Program

To encourage Lusitano participation and visibility at recognized competitions, USLA offers a High Point Ribbon Program. USLA provides distinctive, high-quality ribbons—free of charge—to competition secretaries who request them for events where APSL-registered Lusitanos are expected to compete.

Competition organizers hosting APSL Lusitanos are encouraged to request these ribbons, offering additional recognition for Lusitano competitors while promoting the breed within the broader sport horse community.

Model & Movements Competitions

USLA supports Model & Movements competitions designed to highlight the quality, athleticism, and breed characteristics of the Lusitano horse. These competitions provide an important platform to showcase Lusitanos in a structured evaluation setting and to recognize excellence through formal awards.

USLA has successfully hosted its first Model & Movements competition and looks forward to expanding these opportunities in the future to further highlight outstanding Lusitanos.

Additional USLA Programs and Initiatives

In addition to events and competitions, USLA supports a broader set of initiatives that advance the Lusitano breed, including:

• Ongoing educational programming for breeders, owners, and riders
• Collaboration with international organizations, judges, and experts
• Recognition programs tied to evaluation, achievement, and performance
• Strategic initiatives supporting the long-term success of the Lusitano in North America

Together, these programs reflect USLA’s commitment to honoring the heritage of the Lusitano while actively shaping its future.