Eventing is the triathlon of equestrian sports and features three phases of competition: dressage, cross-country and show jumping. With its roots in the cavalry and originally known as the "Militaire," eventing has grown into an internationally-recognized sport drawing both professionals and amateurs alike.
An Olympic sport since 1912, it is one of the few sports where women and men compete as equals. Eventing evaluates the precision, elegance and obedience a horse displays under its rider's direction, while also testing courage, stamina and versatility. Eventing is considered the most complete test of horsemanship on the part of horse and rider.
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The first phase of competition is dressage, which tests a horse's gaits, suppleness and obedience through a set of prescribed movements. Dressage is an evaluation of a horse's beauty of movement and obedience. Often compated to ballet or figure skating the judging is based upon the grace and style of horse and rider as they complete a prescribed test of movements. |
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The second phase of competition is the cross-country test, which demands that a horse be bold and courageous while also showing speed and stamina as they jump solid obstacles across varied terrain. Cross-country is the heart and soul of the sport. Horses leap over obstacles, including ditches, banks and water hazards. While riders are permitted to walk the course before competition, horses never see it before they leave the start box with their rider. Cross-country is a true test of the trust that must be developed between the rider and horse. |
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The final phase of competition is show jumping. Held in an enclosed arena, riders navigate a course of jumps whose light rails come down at the slightest touch. This tests the horse's precision and athletic ability. Occurring on the heels of the physically demanding cross-country phase, show jumping is a final test of stamina and athleticism. |
Scores are given as penalty points, and like the sport of golf the lowest number determines the winner when all points are tallied at the end of the competition. Typical international level competitions take place over three days with each phase being held on its own day.
While eventing levels vary depending upon the skill of both rider and horse, competitions are held for riders from beginner novice to advanced levels. International competitions are designated as CCIs and range from 1-star to 4-star level. The 1-star level provides an introduction to the sport at the international level, while the four star designation is reserved for the most advanced of international competitions.