Dressage
Dressage is the first of three phases in eventing. From the French word meaning “training,” dressage was originally created to show the horse’s submission and ability to perform intricate movements required for cavalry exercises. Today’s dressage still demonstrates the graceful partnership of horse and rider through a sequence of movements, but now they are ridden in an enclosed arena and scored by judges. The goal remains very similar, that horse should demonstrate balance, rhythm, suppleness, and most importantly obedience.
Photos by Shannon Brinkman & Eclipse Sportswire
Cross Country
The cross-country phase typically takes place on the second day of competition, but always after the dressage phase of the competition. Cross-country is the cornerstone of eventing and challenges the horse and rider’s bravery, fitness, and determination over varied terrain and solid obstacles. Carrying forward their penalty points from the dressage phase as their score, riders want to finish with the fewest penalties possible by jumping every fence on the first try, and finishing the course within the allotted time limit, which is known as optimum time.
Show Jumping
The third phase, show jumping, tests horses and riders precision over a series of delicate fences made from colorful rails that are easily knocked down. This final phase tests the stamina and recovery of the horse after the challenging cross-country phase. Consisting of 12 to 15 jumps in an enclosed arena, show jumping requires exact riding as the slightest bump could cause a rail to fall, resulting in four penalty points. Competitors accumulate penalty points throughout the three phases, and the pair with the lowest score takes home top honors.