Eventing

πŸ“˜ Eventing 101

Eventing is like an equestrian triathlon β€” combining three major disciplines into one demanding, multi-day challenge. Typically held over three days, each day features one of the following phases:

  1. Dressage – Demonstrates partnership and harmony between horse and rider through graceful, precise movements.

  2. Cross-Country – Tests bravery, stamina, and athleticism as horse and rider navigate long outdoor courses with natural obstacles.

  3. Show Jumping – Challenges accuracy, agility, and focus through technical jumping in an enclosed arena.

These three tests showcase the physical and mental capabilities of the horse and rider team. Success in eventing comes from adaptability, trust, and consistency across all phases.


🐎 Breed Rules

  • Speed: 25–35 mph

  • Jump: 2.99–6.99 ft

  • Division Eligibility: D4, D5

There are no strict breed restrictions, but horses must:

  • Be registered

  • Be athletic and versatile

  • Be a healthy weight

  • Have a calm and focused temperament

  • Be injury-free and cleared of all health concerns

Popular Eventing Breeds:

  • Dutch, Danish, Belgian, Swedish, and American Warmbloods

  • Hanoverian, Holsteiner, Trakehner, Oldenburger, Westphalian

  • Irish Sport Horse, Canadian Sport Horse

  • Selle FranΓ§ais, Thoroughbred

  • Anglo-Arabians and other sport horse crosses


πŸ§‘β€βš–οΈ Judging

Judges score riders in all three phases:

  • Dressage: Accuracy, obedience, balance, and flow

  • Cross-Country: Fitness, bravery, pace, and control

  • Show Jumping: Technique, precision, and efficiency

They ensure safety, fairness, and track performance through a penalty-based system. Multiple judges are recommended for fairness.

Please refer to each individual disciplines guide (linked below) to see the judging breakdown.


πŸ“Š Scoring

Total Score = Dressage + Cross-Country + Show Jumping penalties.

πŸ… Winner = Lowest combined penalties across all three phases

For deeper scoring breakdowns, refer to each phase’s guide.


🧱 Course Building

Dressage

  • Arena: 30Γ—60 blocks (rectangular)

  • Judge booth behind letter C, 2–3 blocks above ground

  • Proper letter placement: β€œA Fat Bay Mare Can Hardly Ever Kick”

Cross-Country

See Cross-Country Guide for terrain, jump count, obstacle types, and layout tips.

Show Jumping

  • Arena: 40Γ—55 (min) to 100Γ—80 (max)

  • 3+ blocks from boundaries, 7+ blocks between jumps

  • Vertical, oxer, triple bar, and water jumps permitted


🎁 Prize Pot & Entry Fees

Tier
Entry Fee (Min)
Prize Pot (Min)
Placement Payouts

Local Class

$25

$1,000

Top 3

Regional Show

$100

$5,000

Top 5

Championship Cup

$200

$10,000

Top 8


πŸ‘— Attire

Rider Requirements

  • Riding helmet (black/navy)

  • Body protector

  • Show jacket for dressage & jumping

  • Breeches (beige, white, grey)

  • Gloves recommended

Horse Requirements

  • Saddle & girth (black, brown, navy, grey)

  • Bridle with bit

  • Martingale & breastplate

  • Leg protection (especially for XC)

  • Numbered saddle pad


πŸ“’ Hosting Guidelines

  • Host must hold a valid Eventing license (via University system)

  • Larger shows require 2+ qualified judges

  • All hosts must ensure:

    • Timing systems are accurate

    • Courses meet all requirements

    • Riders follow the correct order of phases

See the following individual guides for more:

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