United States Eventing Association

The dressage test is the first of the three phases in eventing. Intended to demonstrate "the harmonious development of the physique and ability of the horse," the dressage test contains a prescribed list of movements to be carried out in front of a judge, or judges, and which is then given a penalty score that horse and rider carry through to the end of the competition.

Dressage, cross-country, and show jumping – the three phases that make up the sport of eventing. Whether you’re new to eventing or have been a competitor in the sport for many years, it is important to be familiar with the purpose and intent of each of the three phases and the rules by which a winner is selected.

Tasked with protecting the welfare of equine athletes and ensuring the balance of competition, the US Equestrian Federation (USEF) Equine Drugs and Medications Program consistently monitors new products and product claims. From time to time, new products appear on the equine supplement market claiming to enhance a horse’s performance.

Eventing tests were created to offer a low-key and inviting introduction to the sport of eventing. Eventing tests typically consist of one or more of the three eventing phases – dressage, cross-country, and show jumping – and are designed to prepare competitors, horses, and officials for USEA recognized horse trials.

Each rider is required to declare their professional or amateur status upon renewing their USEA membership each year. But what exactly are the definitions of amateur and professional?

The FEI released updates on the FEI eventing statistic reports, deformable/frangible devices, and the judging of narrow fences.

During the first USEF eventing competition held after the implementation of the rule, a significant number of the bits measured (commonly used bits) were out of compliance with this rule. Subsequently, we’ve been advised that the FEI will discuss the rule further and it is possible they will make amendments.

Make sure you start your FEI season off on the right foot by refreshing your memory of the changes to the FEI Eventing Rules for 2019 that were approved at the 2018 FEI General Assembly in November.

The best way to ensure a successful start to the season is to make sure you achieve the necessary qualifications to achieve the goals you set for the year. To help you prepare, we are taking a look at Appendix 3 – Participation in Horse Trials.

US Equestrian (USEF) has updated the USEF Rules for Eventing with the extraordinary rule changes passed at their Annual Meeting last week. These rule changes are effective as of January 1, 2019.