Eventing
Information
Eventing is commonly seen as an equestrian triathlon, in that
it combines different disciplines in one competition. Dressage
The dressage phase (held first) comprises an exact sequence
of movements ridden in an enclosed arena (usually 20 x 60
meters). The test is judged by one or more judges who are
looking for balance, rhythm and suppleness and most importantly,
obedience of the horse and its harmony with the rider. The
challenge is to demonstrate that a supremely fit horse, capable
of completing the cross country phase on time, also has the
training to perform in a relaxed and precise manner.
At the highest level of competition, the dressage test may
ask for half-pass, shoulder-in, travers, collected, medium
and extended gaits, flying changes, and counter-canter. The
tests may not ask for Grand Prix movements such as piaffe or
passage.
Cross-country
The next phase,
cross-country, requires both horse and rider to be in excellent
shape and to be brave and trusting of each other. This phase
consists of approximately 12-20 fences (lower levels), 30-40
at the higher levels, placed on a long outdoor circuit. These
fences consist of very solidly built natural objects (telephone
poles, stone walls, etc.) as well as various obstacles such
as ponds and streams, ditches, drops and banks, and combinations
involving several jumping efforts - based on objects that would
commonly occur in the countryside. This phase is timed, with
the rider required to cross the finish line within a certain
time frame (optimum time). Crossing the finish line after the
allowed time results in penalties for each second late. At
lower levels, there is a speed fault time, incurring penalties
for horse and rider pairs completing the course too quickly.
Penalties are also incurred if the horse refuses to jump a
fence or if the rider falls off. The penalties for disobediences
on cross country are weighted severely relative to the other
phases of competition to emphasize the importance of courage,
endurance and athleticism. Fitness is required as the time
allowed will require a strong canter at the lower levels, all
the way to a strong gallop at the higher events.
Veterinary inspection
Before the last phase, horses are inspected by a vet to ensure
that they have not incurred any injuries as a result of their
exertions on the previous day. It is usually a very formal
affair, with well-groomed and braided horses, and nicely
dressed riders. It is also a very nerve-racking time, as
the "pass" or "fail" determines whether
the horse may continue on to the final phase.
Show Jumping
The last
phase, show jumping, tests the technical jumping skills of
the horse and rider, including suppleness, obedience, fitness,
and athleticism. In this phase, 12-20 fences are set up in
a ring. These fences are typically brightly colored and consist
of elements that can be knocked down, unlike cross country
obstacles. If the horse and rider are not in adequate shape
or do not have the technical skill, then they will knock
down the poles, incurring penalties. This phase is also timed,
with
penalties being given for every second over the required
time. In addition to normal jumping skills, eventing show jumping
tests the fitness and stamina of the horse and rider, generally
being held after the cross country phase.
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