Chad Leat: The Three Best Equestrian Events for Competitors

Chad Leat is an avid equestrian and is passionate about getting others involved in the sport. If you like to ride horses and have a strong and competitive spirit, then competing in the following equestrian events might be right for you, recommends Chad Leat.

Cross Country

Cross-country equestrian events require that both the horse and the rider are in excellent physical shape, as well as brave and trusting of each other. This competition consists of approximately 12–20 fences (for beginners) or 30–40 fences (for advanced riders) placed on a long outdoor circuit. Fences consist of solidly-built natural objects (e.g., logs, stone walls, etc.), as well as various obstacles such as ponds and streams, ditches, drops, and banks, and are based on objects that a horse and rider would commonly encounter in the countryside. Speed is a factor in this type of competition, and the rider must cross the finish line within a certain timeframe (referred to as the optimum time).

Show-Jumping

Equestrian show jumping tests the technical jumping skills of the horse and rider, including suppleness, obedience, fitness, and athleticism. In show jumping competitions, between 12–20 fences are set up in a ring. These fences are typically brightly colored and built from elements that can be knocked down (unlike the obstacles encountered in a cross-country event). Speed is also a factor in show jumping events, with penalties assessed for every second over the time limit. In addition to normal jumping skills, show jumping tests the fitness and stamina of the horse and rider.

Dressage

Dressage consists of an exact sequence of movements ridden in an enclosed arena and is judged by one or more individuals who are looking for balance, rhythm, suppleness, and most importantly, the cooperation between the horse and rider. The challenge of dressage is to demonstrate that your horse is not only capable of completing a cross-country event, but that the steed can also perform in a graceful, precise, and relaxed manner. Dressage is the basis of all the other equestrian disciplines because it develops the strength and balance necessary for a horse to complete a cross-country event and show jump competently.

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