The World of Eventing
EVENTING is one of the fastest growing equestrian
pursuits in the world. Riders of all ages and abilities can
compete. Developed from cavalry competitions during the early
1900s, it is the ultimate challenge for horse and rider. It
tests their partnership and athletic prowess in three disciplines:
the grace and harmony of dressage; the rigors and thrills
of cross-country jumping and the power and pageantry of stadium
jumping.
WHAT IS A HORSE TRIAL? A Horse Trial takes place over
one, two or three days, and involves three distinct phases
or tests with varying degrees of difficulty, depending on
the competitive level. Taken as a whole, these phases portray
the ability, versatility, and preparedness of horse and rider.
Penalty points are recorded and then totaled for the three
tests, resulting in a combined score for the whole trial thus
Eventing's synonym, Combined Training. The lowest score wins.
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WHAT ARE THE TESTS?
Dressage. The first test of horse and rider involves
a series of prescribed classical movements performed on the
flat in an enclosed arena. The judges look for a supple, balanced,
and lively yet relaxed ride. As in figure skating, both precision
of individual movements and overall impression enter into
the scoring formula.
Cross-Country. This second test is the heart of the
sport. Horse and rider gallop over natural terrain, jumping
a variety of fixed obstacles along the way. The rider may
inspect the course beforehand, but the horse leaves the starting
box not knowing what lies ahead. This demands absolute trust
between horse and rider.
Stadium Jumping. In this phase, horse and rider jump
a series of painted fences in an enclosed arena. Stadium jumping
tests the obedience and suppleness of the horse and demonstrates
that sufficient stamina and fitness still remain after the
strenuous demands of cross-country.
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View the schedule of events
Visit the USEA website
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