Eventing is the ultimate horse racing competition for many reasons. It is often called the equestrian triathlon because it combines three different disciplines — Dressage, Cross Country and Show Jumping.

Unpredictable and Exciting to the Very End

This kind of horse race is dynamic and unpredictable until the end, as the score from each discipline is aggregating into the final result. That’s why it is a real treat for betting enthusiasts who are always happy to come accross things like Cheltenham racing tips. Not only can it ensure serious gains, but it can also stir up the blood until the last second of the finish.

Eventing Origin and Basics 

Eventing emerged as the ultimate test for riders and horses in the military cavalry, testing their skills and stamina for the battlefield. Nowadays, it is the Olympic sport wherein both men and women can participate and compete as equals. Depending on the sporting event, it may be an individual or national team racing.

Competition can last one, three, or four days, depending on the sporting event it is a part of. The jockey rides the same horse during all tree phases or disciplines, and their skills are individually scored for each phase. The final result is the cumulative number of penalties and the pair with the lowest number wins the title.

Tree Phases of Competition

It is not odd at all that those tree disciplines were chosen for such a demanding competition. Together, they represent a rider and a horse as a pair. Every pair needs to prove its superiority, and also that it is worthy of fame and honor. 

First discipline, dressage, is a sign of a special bond and partnership. Cross-country is an opportunity to show skills, stamina, fitness, and courage. The last one, show jump, is the final finesse that shows all the grace and elegance. But let’s take a closer look at what each discipline demands from the competitors.

Phase One: Dressage

Dressage is a fundamental element, not only for the remaining two stages but also for the entire professional life of a racing horse. It consists of a sequence of movements performed indoors in a 20 m wide and 60 m long space.

In this phase, a horse must show submission, but also rhythm, balance, and flexibility. The animal is only able to do so in a team with its rider. By using the “aids” like saddles, arms, and legs, the rider gives their four-legged friend the instructions to complete the performance smooth and with elegance. 

Phase Two: Cross-country

In the second part of the competition, the racing pair has the opportunity to show most of their skills. The polygon consists of various terrains, solid fences, or natural obstacles such as trenches, pits, plashes.

For such a task, a horse must show its best shape, but the rider should have absolute control over the speed and movement. He must calculate the finishing time and horsepower spent without earning any penalty points.

Phase Three: Show Jumping

In the final stage, the horse proves its stamina and precision. It is no easy feat after the previous running. Jumping involves a polygon with slightly secured barriers where the racing pair must jump over each of these 12 to 15 fences without breaking the bars. Each broken barrier carries four penalty points.

Eventing is a competition that brings many surprises, turns, and entertainment for the audience.