COMPETING

THE World of Equestrianism encompasses quite a range of activities and caters for all tastes. There is no law which says that "you own a horse, you must compete". No-one must feel pressured to do so and just because they choose not to, doesn't mean that they are a less capable horseperson; there are many people who are extremely competent and talented with horses but have decided competition performance is not for them; it is a sad failing of human nature that it is automatically assumed that a non-competitive person is a less capable one.

EQUESTRIAN is quite unique really in that within the umbrella there is such a wide range of activities for horse and rider to take part in.

SO whether you wish to compete on a regular basis or just want to try something new then there is plenty to choose from:

- Dressage
- Show Jumping
- Eventing
- Private Driving
- Driving Trials
- Reining
- Endurance
- Polo
- Showing (which comes in many forms and in some classes you don't even have to ride)

YOUR interests may lie with racing which is obviously either flat or national hunt, but don't forget point to point.

COMPETITION comes in two guises - Unaffiliated and Affiliated.


UNAFFILIATED COMPETITION

THESE are events which are not run in accordance withthe rules set by a particular governing body; although general formats are consistent around the country, such as 4 faults for a fence down in a show jumping competition, the rules and way the event is run will vary from show to show. What goes on is entirely at the discretion of the organisers. If you are not happy about something all you can do is air your views on the day, you have no back up! Classes are not qualifers for larger events and your achievements are not nationally recognisable, so you do not gain any points, grades, etc.

SUCH events are usually run in an informal mannerencouraging newcomers and the "ring-shy" to participate andif things go a little wrong in the ring, the stewards/judges will use their discretion and will probably letyou carry on.


AFFILIATED COMPETITION

THERE is nothing to fear about what many see as pitting themselves against those who compete either as their profession or are what we call "professional amateurs" - those who reguarly compete along side the "top" riders but it is not their livelihood.

BY affiliating you are not only ensuring that competitions you take part in are run in accordance with designated rules and regulations set by the appropriate governing body,with your successes properly noted, but also that the venues have met stipulated safety requirementsfor both horse and rider andthe event has suitable medical and veterinary attendance. As a member of an association, you and your horse have automatic comprehensive insurance cover.

EACH association has its own set of rules and regulations by which you have to abide.


COMPETITION INDEX

PLEASE click onyour chosen disciplineto find out what you have to do and what you need to know; the information, etc. relates to affiliated competitions.

Dressage
Show Jumping
Eventing
Showing
Private Driving
Driving Trials


Additional Links

The E.M.T. Venue Guide to the country's leading competition venues