‘Combined training’ is another term for eventing, since the sport is a combination of three equestrian disciplines – dressage, showjumping and cross-country jumping. This should not be confused with the ‘combined test,’ in which horse and rider perform a dressage test and then a show jumping round, with no cross-country jumping.
Eventing is also known as ‘horse trials’ (for obvious reasons!).
Is Eventing Difficult?
The idea of having to ride three times in one day (at the one day event) may sound daunting. But it can be tremendous fun, as long as you and your horse are fit enough. At the end of this article you'll find some info on getting eventing fit.
You need to learn the dressage test off by heart as readers aren't allowed. So start at the lower levels where the tests will be easier and not complicated.
The beginning levels are designed to be inviting to the first-time competitor, (you can jump less than 2 feet) and crossing over between disciplines keeps things fresh for both sides of the equine partnership.
Eventing Locally
The Maryland Combined Training Association MDCTA is a local organization with a full event schedule for beginners up to advanced event riders. The MDCTA also offers clinics with well-known event riders.
Annual membership is $30 per individual or $35 a family. Here is an excerpt from their website:
‘New and experienced riders of all ages, non-riders, horse lovers and people who want to learn about the sport of Eventing will find plenty of opportunities to ride, to learn, to locate facilities and instructors, attend clinics, assist at events, win awards, earn cash grants toward improving your riding skills, meet people who share your love of the sport, make friends and have fun with horses!’
And if you still need persuading that this is an exciting organization to join, check out their top 10 reasons for becoming a member.
Local Starter Events
The MDCTA organizes two starter horse trials a year, one in June and one in November. Both are held at Tranquillity Farm in Jacksonville, Maryland.
Next year’s summer starter event is on June 24th 2012.
The levels offered are: Elementary (up to 2ft), Intro (up to 2ft 3in), Beginner Novice (up to 2ft 7in), and Novice (up to 2ft 11in). The course is over rolling hills with water, banks and ditches when appropriate (i.e. not at the lowest levels).
The dressage rings are sand and indoor, while the dressage warm-up areas are on grass. Click here for the eventing dressage tests.
For more information, email Chris at tordonovan@yahoo.com or call 410-409-2255.
Riders in Virginia can check out the Virginia Horse Trials website.
Here you will find examples of recognized and unrecognized events, including cross-country schooling, combined tests and pure dressage competitions by looking at the 2011 schedule.
Recognized Horse Trials
In addition to the two starter horse trials the MDCTA organizes a recognized horse trial at Shawan Downs in Hunt Valley Maryland.
Recognized events are more expensive than unrecognized to enter, as you have to be a member of the USEA United States Eventing Association (or you can pay a non-member fee in certain circumstances). Maryland and Virginia are covered by USEA Area II.
If you are new to the sport of eventing, you might prefer to start with the unrecognized competitions and make sure this is a discipline you want to pursue before you spend a lot of money on it.
Here are a couple of articles on fitness training for you and your horse:
Get Your Horse Fit For Competition by Ruth Edge (FYI the British term 'hacking' means 'trail riding')
Fit for Eventing by Jill Ralton
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