What is Equestrian Eventing?

Equestrian Eventing consists of three elements - Dressage, Showjumping and Cross Country. A single horse & rider combination tackles all three of these phases, with the aim of achieving the lowest penalty score to win. Eventing is a real test of horse and rider partnership, communication and athletic ability.

Born out of hunting in the 19th century, dominated by military activities at the start of the 20th century, the sport has grown and progressed to the competition we know and love now.

During the dressage stage horse and rider must demonstrate harmony and rhythm, for showjumping its all about precision and athleticism, while bravery, fitness and accuracy are key to a successful cross country round.

The sport operates at all levels, starting off with unaffiliated eventing for those getting into the sport, through to British Eventing for those progressing up through the levels, the FEI overseeing the international arm of Eventing, and even features in the Olympics.

Our blog covers everything you need to know about eventing, whether you’re getting ready for your first ever one day event, want a recap on the rules in time for the season to start, or want to catch up on the latest fashions and trends in rider wear and horse tack.

Levels of Eventing Explained

If you’re new to the sport, or it’s been a few years since you checked in, you might want to take a look at our guide to the Levels of Eventing. We cover everything from grassroots right up to 5*, so you’ll soon be up to date with the structure. 

Top Eventing Events

Eventing is a fantastic sport, and there’s not a more thrilling day out spectating. Whether you love the adrenaline rush of watching horse and rider tackle a bold cross country jumps, are mesmerized by the elegance of a dressage test, or love the nail biting finish of a showjumping round, you’re sure to find an event to visit in our Top UK Eventing Events blog.

The Trot Up Explained

Our Trot Up blog delves into everything you’ve ever wondered about the eventing trot up – when it happens, why it happens, and equally as important – what to wear when you take part!

Eventing Dressage , Showjumping and Cross Country Rules Explained

Competing at your first one day event can be a daunting task, particularly when you’re trying to remember all of the different rules for each of the three phases! We’ve taken some of the key points from the BE members handbook, and created these quick reference blogs for Dressage, Showjumping and Cross Country, so you can quickly find out all of the important rules, and how to avoid picking up those costly penalties!

Horse Tack Rules Explained

At a quick glance, it’s easy to think that the horse tack rules in the British Eventing Members handbook are a little overwhelming! We’ve broken the rules down into 3 handy refence guides so you can make sure your horse has the right tack for an eventing competition.

Read our blogs to find out everything you need to know about tack for Eventing Dressage, Eventing Showjumping and Eventing Cross Country