In eventing, competitors ride, jump, and compete in a series of events. The exact events depend on the horse’s discipline and the types of events offered at the competition. Different types of eventing include show jumping, cross country, dressage, and hunt seat. The events that are offered at each competition vary depending on the location and its prominence in the sport. Each event has its own rules, standards, and style of riding, so it’s important to know what each type entails before signing up for an event.
Show jumping
Show jumping is the most common type of eventing, with about 70 percent of competitors participating in it worldwide. It is a timed event where the rider and horse perform a series of challenging fences, both indoors and out, while being timed by a judge. The fences are set up in a series of rounds with a time limit for each round. The goal for the rider is to finish as quickly as possible and to jump the fences as high as possible. Each round has a different distance and height of jump, depending on the competition, so riders must be able to keep up with the changing standards. The goal for the horse is to jump over the fences without misbehaving or causing the rider to lose time.
Cross country
Cross country is a timed event that tests the horse’s stamina and endurance. The event consists of a course that usually lasts between 10 and 30 minutes and has between 12 and 25 obstacles. It is the most challenging event in eventing and is usually practiced by advanced and professional riders. Cross country is also known as "endurance" or "speed" eventing, depending on the level of competition. Unlike show jumping, the horse does not jump any fences. Instead, it navigates obstacles that resemble natural features, such as streams, sand dunes, and forests, while the rider sits in the saddle for the majority of the ride.
Dressage
Dressage is a timed event that tests the horse’s ability to move in a controlled and graceful manner. The goal is for the horse to walk or trot in a smooth, elegant, and flowing manner. The rider guides the horse using a saddle and a special device called a "broomstick" (which is basically a long whip). The rider uses the horse’s instincts and natural movements to create a flowing and balanced gait. The horse usually performs the movements in a special ring called a "hanging arena" where the rider and horse are surrounded by a frame holding a track with two parallel lines. The rider uses the track to guide the horse through the movements.
Hunt Seat
Hunt seat is a timed event that tests the rider’s ability to ride and handle a horse. It is also known as "endurance" or "speed" eventing. Unlike other types of eventing, hunt seat does not have specific fences or obstacles. Instead, it is a timed event in which the rider and horse navigate through fields and forests at a controlled pace. The horse is usually fitted with special equipment, such as a nose bit that restricts its breathing and a curb bit that restricts its movement in the mouth.
Flying change-of-direction test
This event is not part of any discipline and is only held during the Olympics as a test of athleticism. The event is a timed run that consists of a change of direction, followed by a flying change of direction. The goal is to run as fast as possible over a 1,000-meter course, which consists of running straight and then making a sharp turn at the end. The rider performs the test using a special sled that allows the rider to make a quick and controlled change of direction.
Summing up
Eventing is a sporting event that combines elements of other sports, including cross-country, show jumping, and dressage, with the added element of speed. It is a very popular equestrian sport, with over 500,000 competitors worldwide. It requires both the rider and horse to perform at their peak performance for multiple events during a daylong competition.