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Mar 12, 2021
Rule Refresher: The "11 Penalty" Rule
With the introduction of frangible devices for cross-country fences came the introduction of penalties associated with activating a fence's frangible device. In 2015, the FEI rule regarding frangible devices, which originally gave a rider 21 penalties for activating a frangible device, was changed to 11 penalties. Effective on December 1, 2020, the USEF adopted a similar rule for nationally recognized competitions, also giving riders 11 penalties for activating a frangible device.
Below you will find the rules regarding penalties for activating a frangible device for both the USEF Rules for Eventing, which pertain to national competition for the Modified through Advanced levels, and FEI Eventing Rules, which pertain to all international competition for the CCI* through CCI5*-L levels. Text has been taken directly from the USEF Rules for Eventing and FEI Eventing Rules with emphasis added by the USEA.
USEF Rules for Eventing
EV141 Cross-Country Scoring
FAULTS AT OBSTACLES
a. Disobediences
- First refusal, run-out or circle - 20 penalties
- Second refusal, run-out or circle at the same obstacle - 40 penalties
- Third refusal, run-out or circle at the same obstacle - Elimination
- Third penalized disobedience on the entire course at Preliminary, Intermediate or Advanced - Elimination
- Fourth penalized disobedience on the entire course at Beginner Novice, Novice, Training or Modified - Elimination
- Activating a frangible fence - 11 penalties
FEI Eventing Rules
548 Scoring
548.1 Faults at Obstacles
| Fault | Penalty |
| First refusal, run-out or circle | 20 penalties |
| Second refusal, run-out or circle at the same obstacle | 40 penalties |
| Third refusal, run-out or circle on course | elimination |
| Fall of Athlete or Horse on course | elimination |
| Activating a frangible device where the dimension of the fence is modified | 11 penalties |
| Dangerous Riding | 25 penalties |
| Missing a flag as per art. 549.2 | 15 penalties |
Want to catch up on past rule refreshers? Click here.
Dec 02, 2023
Education
Four Ways to Prep for Your 2024 Eventing Season
With the holiday spirit in full swing and the New Year just around the corner, it’s time to get ready for the 2024 eventing season. From paperwork to packing, there’s quite a bit to do before you’re ready to get out there and enjoy the season with your horse. Check out these tips from the team at STRIDER, and get your 2024 season kicked off in the most organized way possible.
Dec 01, 2023
Eventing News
USEF Announces 2024 Eventing Pathway Program Lists
The U.S. Equestrian Federation is pleased to announce the Eventing Pathway Program Lists for 2024, including the Elite, Pre-Elite, Development, and Emerging Programs. In addition to these Eventing Pathway Program updates, several opportunities will be available in 2024 for both Program and non-Program athletes.
Dec 01, 2023
Instructors
2024 ECP Symposium to Be Held at the Florida Horse Park on Jan. 30-Feb. 1
The United States Eventing Associations’ (USEA) Eventing Coaches Program (ECP) is pleased to announce the dates and location of the upcoming 2024 ECP Symposium. The annual ECP Symposium, which is held in the southeast to accommodate the migration of eventers for the winter season, will be hosted at the Florida Horse Park in Ocala, Florida, on Jan. 30 – Feb. 1, 2024. This three-day immersive educational experience is recommended for anyone who is interested in learning more about eventing coaching, including current coaches, riders, parents, owners or avid supporters. Click here to download the registration form today!
Nov 30, 2023
Classic Series
Looking Back at the 2023 USEA Classic Series
The USEA is incredibly proud to allow the thrill of the 'chase to live on for those who want to experience the unforgettable rush of the classic long format three-day event through our USEA Classic Series events. Long-format events from the Beginner Novice to Preliminary levels are still a reality with the USEA Classic Series and include roads and tracks, steeplechase, and cross-country on "endurance day," as well as horse inspections. In addition, educational activities are offered at the USEA Classic Series Events to help prepare competitors, especially those who are contesting their first-ever long format event.
