Sydney International Equestrian Centre

Dressage Test

The first test of an ODE is the Dressage test. This test is conducted in a fixed arena and involves a set of specific movements, which is ridden by all competitors in the same class. The Dressage test is to show the horse performing movements and to demonstrate the calmness, flexibility suppleness and submission of the horse.
The horse is marked on each individual movement. The movements are given a score out of ten - 0 = The movement was not executed to 10 = Excellent.

Cross Country Test

The XC test involves the competitors riding across undulating country with jumps and obstacles set out on a course which they must negotiate in order to complete the round. Depending on the level of competition the distance of the course can range from 2kms-4.5kms.

Riders may inspect (walk the course) the day prior to the XC test, but the horses would not have seen the obstacles prior to the competition. This test is designed to test the speed, endurance, jumping ability and fitness of the horse. Riders incur penalties on course if their horse refuses to jump an obstacle, if they miss compulsory flags, exceeding the time allowed for the course or fall off horse. The penalties incurred over the 3 phases are totaled, and the horse with the fewest penalties is declared the winner.

If you're just starting out in Eventing there are a few things to remember. If you are entering a competition you must be a current member or associate member of the EFA (if you are not a member of the host club). If you enter a graded class (Pre-Novice or above) your horse must be registered with a current eventing card, (If you're competing in an ungraded class your horse does not need to be registered) Junior riders can compete in graded competitions from the beginning of the calendar year in which they turn 14.

Know the rules for Eventing, rule books are available from the Equestrian Federation of Australia Be courteous to other riders. Don't be afraid to ask questions, most riders are more than happy to help.

Showjumping Test

The Showjumping test requires competitors to complete one round of a Showjumping course. The object is to show the stamina, suppleness and obedience of the horse. Horses are required to jump a course of brightly coloured obstacles of varying height and width. Penalties are incurred for exceeding the time allowed for the course, knocking down obstacles, refusing to jump obstacles and for errors of course.