The type of horse or pony that is used is irrelevant, although ponies need to be 12hh and over to compete at official level as per FEI guidelines. Ponies under 12hh are welcome to compete at unofficial events with special time allowances in the marathon section. Separate classes are held for the different combinations that may present i.e single, pairs, tandem or a team (known as a 4-in-hand). The latter 2 combinations are the most difficult to master and require a great deal of skill.
The first phase of the competition is the dressage, held in an arena measuring 40m x 100m with a chief judge at the top of the arena and a second judge at the side. The entry is judged on the correctness of paces, the accuracy of movements as required, and the obedience and willingness of the horse or pony. During this phase, a mark is also given for the presentation or general appearance of the entry. Competitors are expected to be correctly and elegantly turned out with hat, gloves and apron being compulsory. A suitable driving whip must be held in the hand at all times. Horses are groomed to perfection, often with manes plaited and threaded with coloured wool to match the driver’s outfit. Vehicles and harness must be clean and suitable to the competition. Grooms are also required for the over 12hh classes, and must be suitably attired to match the driver and the type of vehicle. Although this phase of the event may appear to be the calmest and easiest, it can often be a nerve-wracking time for some drivers with the horses/ponies feeling fit and energetic from the training required to complete the marathon the following day.
The second phase of the event is the marathon, which is usually up to 15/16klms. This is divided into 3 or 5 sections, depending on the type of event, with walk and trot sections being completed within the given times. The time allotted is dependent on the class you have entered i.e. horses do faster times than ponies and open classes are expected to be faster than novice. You are penalised if you come in early or late on these sections. The last section contains the marathon “hazards”. Hazards can be either formed from natural markers eg trees, or are man-made. The hazards consist of a series of gates, usually marked from A to E with red markers to be kept to the right and white markers to be kept to the left. These gates are a minimum of 2.5 metres apart and must be completed as quickly as possible in alphabetical order. There are usually 5-6 hazards, which are placed at minimum required distances to enable the horse/pony (and driver) to catch their breath before tackling the next one. Although safety is observed when constructing these hazards, the competitor must be very aware when driving through them because he/she endeavours to be at top speed to minimise penalty points and the slightest miscalculation, eg a tree root or the slope of the terrain etc, could create a problem in no time. Competitors are allowed to walk these hazards before the event to study the best way to approach each gate and to take note of the possible objects that may cause a problem.
The welfare of the horses and ponies is strictly observed with vet checks before, during and at the end of the marathon. This ensures no entry is taxed beyond its capabilities. At most events, these hazards are placed within easy walking distance of the grounds to enable the public to watch this exciting phase.
The final phase of the event is the precision cone driving phase. The competitor must negotiate a measured course between “witches’ hats” on top of which are tennis balls. Sometimes there may also be man made constructions such as a bridge or an L shape made with poles. The cones are measured to a width no less than 15cm wider than the vehicle. This course must be completed within a set time period without dislodging any balls. The time allowed means the competitor must travel at quite a speed to avoid time penalties and great control must be had to both drive both fast and accurately.
The overall winner is that who has the least penalty points with all 3 sections contributing to the final score. This means that sometimes the winning score comes down to the very last cone negotiated and can provide for some very exciting driving.
Scurry Driving
Scurries are for those who enjoy the thrill of speed with precision driving. Similar in design to that of the cone course in Horse Driving Trials, but sometimes containing 1 or 2 marathon obstacles, these events are won by the fastest clear round. Scurries are becoming very popular at local shows, providing entertainment for the spectator and competitor alike.
Show Driving
Show Driving displays the elegance and beauty of the carriage horse. In Show Harness classes, there are 2 specific categories. In one, it is simply the horse or pony that is being judged – the movement of the horse, the correctness of his conformation and his ability to perform with grace and style. The second category is defined as a turnout class, whereby points are allocated to the horse, the vehicle, the harness and the overall impression. Many hours of preparation go into producing the magnificent turnouts that are seen at many Shows.
Pleasure Driving
Pleasure driving is enjoyed by many in the sport. Organised activities often include sporting days and gymkhanas, orienteering drives, dressage days and cone driving competitions. Unofficial Horse Driving Trials or 3 phase driving weekends provide an opportunity for the new driver to ascertain whether he may be interested in later competing at a more official level of Horse Driving Trials.
Junior Drivers are catered for at all levels with the proviso that they are accompanied by an experienced adult.
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