WHAT IS EVENTING

Whatis Eventing?

Also known as "Horse Trials", this demandingsportis comprised of3 phases: dressage, cross country, and showjumping. The same riderand horse mustcompete in all 3 phases. Scores from the phases are combined so the winneris the riderwith the bestoverall score.

Dressage: The firstphase is always dressage, a series ofsupplingand strengthening exercises performed in a flat, enclosed arena. Dressage develops the horse’s submission and responsiveness to perform a pattern of intricate movements. This is the fundamental trainingofthe sportupon which the two jumpingphases are built.

Cross-Country: Cross-countryis the cornerstone ofEventing, and tests the speed, endurance, boldness and jumping abilityofthe horse overva ried terrain and solid obstacles. The jumps maybe natural obstacles such as water, banks, ditches and drops. Cross-countryis ridden ata gallop with speed requirements dependentupon the level ofdifficultyofthe division.

ShowJumping: This phase tests the same horse and rider’s precision over a course ofbrightlypainted fences with rails thatcan easilybe knocked down. Showjumpingtests the stamina, precision, and recoveryof the horse.