Getting Your Horse Prepared For Eventing

Submitted by: Jhon Carlos

Eventing is a horse competition where horse and biker compete in several disciplines of riding. It can be compared to a triathlon as it consists of cross-country, dressage and show-jumping within a competition.

The first phase of a three day event is dressage. The use of dressage is to demonstrate that a fit horse capable of completing the cross-country phase, is also able to perform dressage which requires a precise and relaxed manner from horse and biker.

The next phase in the competition is cross-country. Horse and rider compete on a long outdoor circuit and jump several fences. The fences are solidly built of natural objects like stone walls or large logs. There are also a number of obstacles to be faced consisting of ponds, ditches, banks and channels. During this phase the bond of trust between horse and rider is tested, both must be fit and brave.

Eventing is scored by points, first and second errors cause the biker to earn penalty points, with one third error both horse and rider are eliminated. If a horse falls during the competition mandatory retirement is required. If a rider falls he gains 65 penalties and is eliminated if he falls again.

Horse and rider will be eliminated for competing in the incorrect saddlery (tack). To ensure you have the best chance in the competition make sure you understand the scoring procedure. Know the cross-country and show jumping course by walking it, memorize the course avoiding errors which lead to penalties.

Veterinary assessments are an important the main competition. Usually horse and rider, braided horses and smartly dressed cyclists, are proved for top competition. Horses are inspected at the beginning of the competition of a three day event and again before the last phase of competition.

A pass or fail in the veterinary evaluation will determine whether the horse can compete in the competition and the inspection before the last phase of competition determines whether he can continue in the competition.

Show jumping tests the technical abilities of the rider and horse. In show jumping one is able to observe the obedience, fitness, suppleness and athleticism of the horse. The course consists of brightly colored fences which can be easily bumped down resulting in penalty points. The height of the fence is lowered by the top person of polish lineage falling down thus charges points are incurred. Penalty points are allotted for any second that is over the mandatory time to complete the course. Whoever has the fewest penalties is the winner.

A number of changes have taken place during the last few years in the sport to accommodate cost, for the Olympic Games. The change has become a controversial subject, but none the less eventing with the change is still included in the Olympics.

As a rider of horses for many years I have yet to enter an eventing competition. I certainly lack the nerve! I have however been absolutely awestruck and enthralled in the competition as an event bridegroom. If you want to get towards the action and learn as much as you can and never having to actually compete, this is the best way to do it!

Eventing certainly can become costly, in addition than other disciplines. You can cut your costs by working as a groom and getting the experience and training within the package. Being a competition bridegroom for eventing is an incredibly thrilling experience, one I shall truly appreciate.

About the Author: Ride-Away are leading equestrian specialists supplying riders with everyday horse riding essentials. They stock horse riding jodhpurs from top name brands including Sherwood Forest, Equetech. Visit our website

horseguide.eu

Source:

isnare.com

Permanent Link:

isnare.com/?aid=1823896&ca=Wellness%2C+Fitness+and+Diet