EFFECTIVE FROM DECEMBER 1, 2022
PUBLISHED BY THE UNITED STATES EVENTING ASSOCIATION
AS A COURTESY TO OUR MEMBERS
2023
US EQUESTRIAN
RULES FOR EVENTING
2023 US Equestrian Rules for Eventing
is prepared by the US Equestrian Eventing Sport Committee
and published by the United States Eventing Association, Inc.
The rule contents of this booklet are printed as an excerpt from the
2023 US Equestrian Rule Book as a courtesy to our USEA members,
and are reprinted with the permission of US Equestrian.
©2023 US Equestrian Federation, Inc.
4001 Wing Commander Way, Lexington, KY 40511
All rights reserved. Reproduction without permission prohibited by law.
Printed by C2 Imaging-Vomelo Commercial Group, Newington, Virginia.
United States Eventing Association, Inc.
525 Old Waterford Road, NW • Leesburg, Virginia 20176
Phone: (703) 779-0440 | Fax: (703) 779-0550
Email: [email protected] | Web: www.useventing.com
2023
US EQUESTRIAN
RULES FOR EVENTING
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2023 POLICIES AND GUIDELINES FOR USEA RECOGNIZED COMPETITIONS
USEA Membership Policy 10
USEA Horse Registration/Year-End Awards Policy 11
Modified Level and Above Participation in US Equestrian Recognized Competitions 12
Policies for Recognized Competitions 13
USEA Championships 16
USEA Requests to Host a Championship 16
USEA Combined Test Policy 17
USEA Classic Series Guidelines 18
2023 US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING
SUBCHAPTER EV-1 GENERAL RULES FOR ALL EVENTING COMPETITIONS
EV101 Introduction 28
EV102 Eventing Showcases and Arena Eventing 28
EV103 National Championships 28
EV104 Definitions 29
EV105 Disqualification Summary Table 29
EV106 Breaking Ties 30
SUBCHAPTER EV-2 ATHLETE
EV107 Membership for Athletes 30
EV108 Participation 30
EV109 Loss of Qualifications 30
EV110 Entries 32
EV111 Restrictions on Schooling 33
EV112 Abuse of Horses 34
EV113 Dangerous Riding 35
EV114 Medical Data 35
EV115 Inquiries, Protests, and Appeals 35
SUBCHAPTER EV-3 ATHLETE – RULES FOR TESTS
EV116 Rules for Tests 36
SUBCHAPTER EV-4 ATHLETE – RULES FOR HORSE TRIALS
EV117 Classification 36
EV118 Dressage Phase Rules 37
EV119 Dressage Phase Scoring 38
EV120 Dressage Phase Elimination Summary Chart 39
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EV121 Cross-Country Phase Rules 39
EV122 Cross-Country Phase Definitions of Faults 41
EV123 Cross-Country Phase Scoring 43
EV124 Show Jumping Phase Signal 45
EV125 Show Jumping Phase Unauthorized Assistance 45
EV126 Show Jumping Phase Time 45
EV127 Show Jumping Phase Penalties 47
EV128 Show Jumping Phase Faults 49
SUBCHAPTER EV-5 ORGANIZER
EV129 Membership for Organizers 52
EV130 Organizers’ Rights 52
EV131 Omnibus 52
EV132 Competition Standards 52
EV133 Division of Entries 52
EV134 Starting Order and Timetable 52
EV135 Exercising and Warmup Area 53
EV136 Inspection of Courses 53
EV137 Interruptions and Modifications 54
EV138 Medical Requirements 54
EV139 Radios and Cellular Phones 55
EV140 Handling Protests and Appeals 55
EV141 Athlete Representative 55
SUBCHAPTER EV-6 ORGANIZER - RULES FOR HORSE TRIALS
EV142 Dressage Arenas 56
EV143 Calculation of Dressage Scores 56
EV144 Cross-Country Phase Courses 57
EV145 Cross-Country Phase Obstacles 58
EV146 Show Jumping Phase Arena 60
EV147 Show Jumping Phase Courses and Measuring 60
EV148 Show Jumping Phase Course Plan 61
EV149 Show Jumping Phase Markers 61
EV150 Show Jumping Phase Obstacles 61
SUBCHAPTER EV-7 ORGANIZER – RULES FOR CLASSIC THREE-DAY EVENTS
EV151 Classic Three-Day Event Rules 63
SUBCHAPTER EV-8 ORGANIZER – LICENSED OFFICIALS
EV152 Licensed Officials 65
EV153 Licensed Officials for Horse Trials 65
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
APPENDICES
APPENDIX 1 LEVELS OF HORSE TRIALS 76
APPENDIX 2 SPECIFICATIONS FOR HORSE TRIALS 78
APPENDIX 3 PARTICIPATION IN HORSE TRIALS 80
APPENDIX 4 EVENTING - PERMITTED SADDLERY FOR DRESSAGE 88
APPENDIX 5 EVENTING - DRESSAGE ARENAS 90
APPENDIX 6 EVENTING - CROSS-COUNTRY OBSTACLES WITH 91
SEVERAL ELEMENTS
APPENDIX 7 EVENTING - DIAGRAMS OF FAULTS AT 92
CROSS-COUNTRY OBSTACLES
APPENDIX 8 SPECIFICATIONS FOR THREE DAY EVENTS 102
APPENDIX 9 CONVERSION TABLES 104
ANNEXES
ANNEX 1 BITS, SADDLERY, AND EQUIPMENT 106
ANNEX 3 EVENTING SHOWCASES AND ARENA EVENTING 110
ANNEX 5 USEF/USEA EVENTING COMPETITION STANDARDS 113
The United States Eventing Association Corporate Sponsors:
EV154 Licensed Officials for Classic Three-Day Events 66
EV155 Licensed Officials for Tests 66
EV156 Ground Jury Qualifications and Duties 66
EV157 Additional Judges 67
EV158 Technical Delegate Qualifications and Duties 67
EV159 Cross-Country Course Designer Qualifications and Duties 69
EV160 Eventing Jumping Course Designer 69
SUBCHAPTER EV-8 ORGANIZER – PERSONNEL
EV161 Course Advisors 69
EV162 Veterinarian Qualifications and Duties 69
EV163 Additional Personnel 70
SUBCHAPTER EV-9 DRESS 70
SUBCHAPTER EV-10 SADDLERY 72
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING
The United States Eventing Association Corporate Sponsors:
Ofcial Real Estate Partner of the USEA.
CapitalSq.com
Ofcial Joint Therapy Treatment of the USEA.
adequan.com
Ofcial Supplement Feeding System of the USEA.
smartpakequine.com
Ofcial Feed of the USEA.
nutrenaworld.com
Ofcial Outerwear of the USEA.
mountainhorseusa.com
Ofcial Forage of the USEA.
standleeforage.com
Ofcial Equine Insurance of the USEA.
equine-ins.com
Ofcial Competition and Training
Apparel of the USEA.
kerrits.com
Ofcial Saddle of the USEA.
batessaddles.com
5
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING8
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 9
2023 USEA
POLICIES AND GUIDELINES
FOR USEA RECOGNIZED COMPETITIONS
AND MEMBERS OF THE ASSOCIATION
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING10
2023 USEA MEMBERSHIP POLICY
1. COMPETITOR: A rider competing in any USEA-registered competition at any level, including
the Beginner Novice level, must hold a Full, Junior, Collegiate, or Life membership. The
USEA will extend a 14- day grace period for Beginner Novice level riders to join the USEA,
renew their membership or to register their horses, upon the conclusion of the competition.
The 14-day grace period extends to upgrade a horse from Limited to Full. Points and/or
championship qualifications are not retroactive after the 14-day grace period. The USEA
will consider on a case by case basis a reinstatement of qualifications for the current year
championship and current year- end awards, only. A fine of $100 will be assessed for each
inquiry to consider reinstatement.
Member Refund and cancellation Policy: A full refund will be issued to a member, if notice
is received in the USEA office within ten (10) business days from the date of joining the
association.
Insufcient Funds or return checks: All returned checks will be charged a $25.00 fee,
and the USEA membership will be suspended until payment has been resolved with
the association.
Credit Card Disputes and Chargeback: For all chargeback accounts your USEA membership
and affiliated horse registration will be placed on hold until your debt to the association has
been paid in full. All Entry chargeback must be directed to the appropriated event. Please see
the competition calendar for competition refund policy.
2. COLLEGIATE PROGRAM MEMBER: ($25 discount) with verification of participating USEA
Affiliate College/University. TO RECEIVE THE DISCOUNT: Your Team Coach/Team Advisor
must provide a roster of the Eventing Team members to the USEA.
3. INTERSCHOLASTIC EVENTING LEAGUE (IEL) MEMBER: The Affiliate Team or ICP
instructor/coach must register with the USEA by February 15. Students and junior members
from 7th grade to 12th grade may join the IEL by selecting their Affiliated Team or ICP
instructor. Those not registering online will be able to fill in the name of their Team or ICP
instructor on the membership form.
4. DIGITAL MEMBERSHIP: Open to ALL Volunteers who have tirelessly showed their loyalty
to the sport of eventing. By volunteering 10 or more hours through the EventingVolunteers.
com. The Digital Membership will be awarded to those well-deserved participants on a yearly
basis. The Digital Membership will offer qualifying participants several benefits. Digital
Members will have full access to the USEA’s online resources, including the Member Rewards
Program and digital issues of the award-winning Eventing USA magazine, subscription to
all USEA eNewsletters, and access to online competition and educational videos. Digital
members will also have voting rights with the association and the ability to make their voice
heard in advocacy for the sport of eventing. Participation in USEA Educational Activities,
like clinics, seminars and camps, is another perk that Digital Members will be encouraged
to take advantage of, as they provide a great opportunity to increase your knowledge base
and meet new people that share your love for the sport. If you are interested in volunteering
to start accumulating 10 hours of service towards your upcoming Digital Membership, visit
EventingVolunteers.com for a full listing of participating events.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 11
USEA HORSE REGISTRATION AND YEAR-END AWARDS POLICY
1. All horses competing in any USEA recognized competition at any level, including the
Beginner Novice level, must have a valid FULL or LIMITED STATUS. The USEA will extend
a 14-day grace period to register a beginner novice horse or upgrade a horse from Limited
to Full, upon the conclusion of the competition. Points and/or championship qualifications
are not retroactive after the 14-day grace period. The USEA will consider reinstatement of
qualifications for the current year championship and current year-end awards, only.
A fine of $100 will be assessed for each inquiry to consider reinstatement.
2. FULL LIFETIME REGISTRATION DISCOUNTED FEE ONLY DURING FIRST CALENDAR
YEAR OF LIFE (Registry papers or other acceptable ID and proof of foaling date must be
submitted at time of registration).Horse must be registered in its first calendar year of life ,
ie before December 31 to be eligible for this discount.
3. ALL horses must have a LIMITED STATUS registration with the USEA in order to
participate in USEA recognized competitions at the Young Event Horse Test.
5. AMATEUR STATUS: For all returning USEA members, amateur status will transfer
automatically to the next competition season. It is the responsibility of each competitor
to inform the USEA of any changes to their status. Amateur status begins at the time it
is declared and its benefits are not retroactive. A fine of $50.00 will be assessed for each
inquiry to consider activating status at an earlier date.
For the definition of amateur status, please refer to the USEF Rules for Eventing, Appendix
3.1.3 Amateur (A). If you are unclear about whether you qualify as an amateur or
professional, please email: [email protected].
6. ORGANIZER: The organizer, the Chairman of the Organizing Committee of an event, must
be a current Full or Life, member of the USEA.
The USEA membership requirements are waived only in the following cases:
1a. EVENTING TESTS: Such as but not limited to: Starter Test, Intro, DX Eventing, Coach
Allowed Test (CAT), or Schooling Shows, USEA membership/non-member fee is waived
for participation. For Combined Tests, USEA membership is not required for any level of
a combined test, but a $25 non-member fee must be collected. A $20 starter fee must be
collected per horse for the Young Event Horse (YEH) classes. Eventing test and Schooling
activities are exempt from the Association fees (Starter and D&M).
To use the USEA Xentry online entry system, an ID number must be created. ID numbers do
not require membership and can be created by going to the USEA home page and clicking
on the Login tab. Click “New User?” to create profile. Please note: This is not a membership
level. You must pay to compete at the Beginner Novice and above levels.
1b. U.S. PONY CLUB members are exempt from USEA membership and horse registration
requirements at the Novice and the Beginner Novice level, if they are participating in a Pony
Club sanctioned rally being held in conjunction at a USEA recognized horse trials.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING12
MODIFIED AND ABOVE PARTICIPATION IN USEF RECOGNIZED COMPETITIONS
To participate in U.S. Equestrian Federation licensed competitions at the Modified level
or above, riders, owners, coaches, and trainers must be individual members of the U.S.
Equestrian Federation (USEF). Riders and owners who are not current USEF members,
are permitted to obtain one U.S. Equestrian Show Pass fee ($45) per competition year.
If one person holds more than one position, e.g., rider and trainer, only one payment of
$45.00 is required.
4. All horses must have a FULL STATUS registration with the USEA in order to participate
in USEA recognized competitions at the Modified level and above levels.
5. All horses with a LIMITED STATUS registration must be upgraded to FULL STATUS
registration prior to competing at the Modified level.
6. Restricted Eventing Test Horse registration is used to enter eventing tests using the
USEA Xentry online entry system, such as Starter Test, Coaching Allowed Test (CAT), Event
Derby, Intro, or Combined Test level(s) only. THIS IS NOT A VALID HORSE REGISTRATION
FOR COMPETITION. Horses registered at this level do not earn award points or AEC
qualifications. The results are not posted to the rider or horse’s profile.
7. U.S. PONY CLUB members that are exempt from the membership requirement
stated under USEA Membership 1b also exempts horse registration for both Novice and
Beginner Novice levels when competing in team competitions or Pony Club rallies held in
conjunction with a USEA recognized horse trials.
8. YEAR-END AWARD POINTS VERIFICATION: The USEA has established a cut-off date
of November 15th for inquiries on competitive records for competitions held prior to
November 15th. While we make every attempt to ensure the accuracy of our members’
competitive record, we realize that errors do occur. It is the responsibility of every owner/
rider to verify their horse’s records.
9. TRANSFER OF USEA HORSE ACCOUNT: The USEA no longer requires the submission
of bills of sale for horses registered with the Association. Additionally, the USEA will no
longer track horse ownership. Any information on horse ownership provided to the USEA
by the Horse Account holder will be used solely for promotional purposes as a benefit to
the USEA Horse Account holder, however the USEA cannot acknowledge nor prove horse
ownership. When a transfer of a USEA Horse Account has been initiated an email will be
generated to the previous account holder on file with the USEA. The primary, or -syndicate
representative, account holder will be notified. When acknowledgement has been received,
the transfer of the Horse Account will be completed. Please note: Only one (1) Horse
Account per horse. Multiple accounts are NOT allowed and will be merged to the original
account. No refunds will be issued for duplicate horse registrations. For questions, please
contact the USEA office at [email protected] or 703-779-0440 x 1.
NOTE: The registration of the named horse with the United States Eventing Association
(USEA) is for competition purposes only, and the registration does not indicate the legal
Status of ownership of, or liability for, said horse. USEA accepts no liability for the accuracy
of the registered details which information is intended for its own sole use and benefit, and
does not decide, resolve, or become involved in ownership disputes.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 13
2023 POLICIES FOR RECOGNIZED COMPETITIONS
The Rules for all USEA recognized competitions would be
the current US Equestrian Rules for Eventing.
1. All events registered with the USEA must apply for licensure (Modified and above)
through US Equestrian in accordance with GR3. Endorsed status (Training and lower)
events are approved by the USEA Executive Committee; upon approval the event profile
will be submitted to US Equestrian. US Equestrian will assign a competition ID#. Endorsed
only competitions are required to submit a prize list directly to US Equestrian in accordance
with #3 below and follow all timelines in GR-302.h.1.2.3. New events and any modifications
to dates, levels and location of existing events, are subject to the USEA and USEF review
process, to include, organizers, area councils, USEA Competitions, Calendar and Rules
Committee, USEA Executive Committee, USEF Calendar Working Group, USEF Eventing
Sport Committee, and International Disciplines Council (where applicable).
2. The organizer or the Chairman of the Organizing Committee of an event must be a
current Full or Life member of the USEA.
3. The event prize list must be posted to the USEA website. The USEA Event Registration
Fee is $300.00. Competition liability insurance is included in the registration fee, meeting
US Equestrian General Regulations. The registration fee and prize list are due 30 days from
the opening date of the competition.
Organizers are responsible for submitting the Prize List directly to the USEF 30 days prior
to the start of the competition to [email protected]. The USEA will provide the necessary
material that is required under US Equestrian General Regulations.
Any event pending the USEA event registration fee will not have the prize listed posted
online until the registration fee has been paid.
4. Not offer any unrecognized eventing division during the days of recognized competition.
5a. At horse trials, three-day events, CCIs, collect a starter levy fee itemized on the entry
form of $30.00 for each horse at the Beginner Novice through Advanced, including FEI
levels, that start in the competition. This applies even if one or all phases of the event are
cancelled once the event has commenced.
5b. Starter Fees: Competition Starter Fees are a tariff imposed by the USEA on each starter
in USEA recognized competitions. Such fees are collected by the competition management
on behalf of the Association. Per USEA Policy, Starter Fees are due in the USEA office
within ten days after the completion of the competition. If such fees are not received within
such time, competition management will be notified of the situation; when such fees are
not paid within 30 days after the completion of the competition, the next competition(s) will
not be posted online and may lose its status as a future USEA recognized competition until
such fees are paid in full.
5c. Drugs and Medications/Endorsement Fee: The USEA has an agreement with U.S.
Equestrian Federation (USEF) whereby the Beginner Novice, Novice, and Training levels are
covered by the rules, regulations and hearing processes of the U.S. Equestrian Federation
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING14
Inc. and all levels of competition may be subject to the U.S. Equestrian Federation Drugs and
Medications program.
Pursuant to that agreement, a drug fee may be imposed by the USEA on each horse in
competition in lieu of the drug fee imposed by the U.S. Equestrian Federation (USEF) and is
paid by the competitor with the entry. The amount of the drug fee shall be set by the USEA
Board of Governors. Organizers shall collect any such fees on behalf of the organization and
remit them within ten days of the completion of the competition. Failure to comply with this
requirement will result in the competition losing its status as a USEA recognized competition
and, the next competition (s) will not be posted online until such fees are paid in full.
6. Refund Policy for Withdrawal of an Entry Prior to the Start of Competition: After
closing date, the refund policy published in the Prize List by Competition Management
will apply, except that Starter Fees and Drugs & Medication Fees shall be returned to any
competitor who withdraws prior to the start of the competition, regardless of the date of the
competitor’s withdrawal. Refund of Starter Fees and Drugs & Medication Fees to qualifying
competitors shall be made within 30 days of the completion of the competition. USEA
Starter Fees and Drug and Medication Fees are not subjected to any office fee.
7. Post Competition Report: All USEA recognized competitions must submit the competition
results via email using the USEA template, within four days of the competition to results@
useventing.com. All fees and additional documents (where applicable) are due to the USEA
Office within 10 days of the competition.
8. Adhere to pertinent USEA directives and memorandums.
9a. Agree to a pre-event inspection by the technical delegate prior to the start of the
competition. The event TD may appoint a local qualified deputy to perform the pre-event
inspection, although he/she will remain ultimately responsible.
9b. New Event (national levels only): As defined by USEA (see below), will provide a
one-time only reimbursement, up to $500 towards the technical delegate’s fees and travel
expenses to and from the event. The organizer is responsible for housing and meals.
NEW EVENT DEFINED AS:
1. An entirely new event, with new organizational staff and over new cross-country
courses.
2. An experienced organizational staff running an event over a new competition
site with all new cross-country courses. An existing event adding a new level of
competition or an additional date to the calendar is not considered a new event.
3. An all new organizational staff (organizer and secretary) taking over an existing
cross-country site that has not been used for two or more years.
10. Ofcials: The Technical Delegate, President of the Ground Jury, and Course Designer
must be stated in the Prize List for each competition. A competition may not be published or
posted if these officials are not named.
2023 POLICIES FOR RECOGNIZED COMPETITIONS
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 15
LEVELS OF COMPETITION
1. There is no restriction on the number of levels that may be held at any registered event.
However, organizers must use their judgment and not run more divisions or accept more
competitors than can be reasonably handled without adversely affecting the safety or the
quality of the event.
2. The USEF Eventing Sport Committee, or the USEA Executive Committee, in cases where
the event is not licensed by the Federation, reserves the right to restrict the number of
levels and/or competitors at any registered event, if this is deemed necessary in the interest
of the sport.
COMBINED TEST/EVENTING TESTS
1. Organizers may also offer “Tests” in conjunction with their horse trials. Refer to Sub-
Chapter EV-2 - Rules for Tests. USEA competition guidelines for combined tests are on
page 5 of this publication.
2a. Combined Tests: If a Combined Test offers the cross-country phase, qualifications to
compete are the same as for Horse Trials. USEA membership is not required for any level
of a Combined Test, but a $25 non-member fee must be collected. Combined Tests are
exempt from the Association fees (Starter and D&M).
2b. Eventing Tests: Eventing Tests are exempt from the Association fees (Starter & D&M),
except Future Event Horse are assessed a $10 USEA Starter Fee and Young Event Horse
Tests are assessed a $20 USEA Starter Fee.
GENERAL GUIDELINES
1. If schooling of any kind is permitted at the end of the scheduled day of competition,
the USEA highly recommends that these sessions are properly supervised, and adequate
insurance coverage is obtained by the organizer. The application for Educational Activity
insurance is available on www.useventing.com under Safety + Education - Educational
Activities.
2. Only stabling approved by the organizer is permitted. Stalls made from rope, string, or
wire is not permitted. Pipe corrals are acceptable.
2023 POLICIES FOR RECOGNIZED COMPETITIONS
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING16
2023 USEA CHAMPIONSHIPS
1. American Eventing Championships. The USEA Horse Trials Championship (AEC) will
recognize and reward the top horse/rider combinations from the Beginner Novice through
the Advanced levels. Horses and riders must qualify over a 14-month period. Refer to the
AEC information page on www.useventing.com/aec.
2. Adult Team Championships. The team championship to be held in conjunction with the
American Eventing Championship for the levels Beginner Novice, Novice, Training, and
Preliminary. Qualifying criteria and other eligibility requirements are found under the AEC
section of the USEA Website.
AREA CHAMPIONSHIPS
Area championships may be offered at any level. They may be restricted by age (Junior,
Young Rider, or Senior). A horse division may be offered, but must be listed in the division
section of the Prize List listing, for example: NH, TH. In principle, all area championships
shall be horse trials.
The Area Chair and Area Council shall determine qualifications for entry. The website will
publish general terms of the qualifications, but not the complete version. Specific details
of the area qualification criteria shall be published on the Area’s website and/or newsletter.
It is the responsibility of each competitor to read the criteria for participation published by
both the Area and the USEA, and to comply with the Area’s qualifications.
The Area Chair and the Area Council shall approve scheduling of all Area Championships.
Applications to host a championship shall be addressed to the council. Area
championships at the Beginner Novice, Novice, Training, Modified, and Preliminary
levels are an essential part of the framework of the sport. At the higher levels, Areas are
cautioned to consider the anticipated number and state of preparation of competitors
before scheduling a championship to ensure that these competitions are meaningful.
INTER-AREA CHAMPIONSHIPS
Inter-Area Championships may be offered at any level. They may be offered for teams or
individuals, but if offered for teams, individual prizes must also be awarded. They may
be restricted to Juniors, Young Riders, or Seniors. They may be horse trials or three-day
events. Qualifications for entry shall be determined by the Areas involved, and shall be
approved by the USEF Eventing Sport Committee. Scheduling of all inter-Area competitions
shall be coordinated by the Areas involved and approved by the USEF Eventing Sport
Committee.
Applications to host inter-Area competitions should be addressed to the Areas.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 17
USEA COMBINED TEST POLICY
DEFINITION
A USEA recognized combined test comprises two of the three tests of a horse trial and takes
place on one day, during which the competitor rides the same horse in both tests. Each
competitor’s scores from both tests are added together to determine the result. Riders may
compete with more than one horse in a combined test.
If a cross-country phase is offered, horse and rider qualifications shall be the same as the
qualifications to compete in a horse trial of the same level. There are no set qualifications if the
combined test consists of the dressage and show jumping phases
COMBINED TEST POLICY
A. For USEA recognition the dates and divisions must be approved by the area chairman and
the appropriate registration fee(s) paid to the USEA at the appropriate deadlines. All USEA
recognized competitions must submit all documents and fees due to the USEA Office within 10
working days of the competition.
B. USEA membership is not required for any level of a combined test, but a non-member fee of
$25 will be collected. USEA Starter, D&M fees do not apply.
C. A Federation licensed judge is required. If the combined test offers a cross-country phase
at the Intermediate or Advanced level, then the Federation Official must be selected from the
roster of “R” (intermediate) or “S” (advanced) registered Eventing Judges. Other judges may
be Federation Licensed Judges, participants or graduates of the USEA Training Program, or
knowledgeable horseman.
D. In both the cross-country and show jumping phases, timing is optional. If timing is used, it
must conform to US Equestrian Rules for Eventing appropriate to that phase.
E. If a combined test consists of the dressage and show jumping phases, a competitor may
enter the same horse in two consecutive levels.
F. The same horse may compete in both a horse trials and a combined test that is offered at a
competition provided the horse only competes over one cross-country course. The horse may
compete for placing in the final classification if the levels are the same or consecutive. If the
levels are not consecutive, the horse may compete, however, he may compete for final placing
in one level only and must ride the other level Hors Concours.
G. Schooling and warm-up areas should be supervised.
H. Whenever horses are tied in the final classification, the horse with the least number of faults
(jumping and time) in the show jumping or cross-country test shall be placed first. If still tied,
the best score of the collective marks of the dressage shall prevail. If still tied, placing’s and
awards are to be duplicated.
I. USEA combined tests shall conform to the current USEF Rules For Eventing.
Also refer to Sub-Chapter EV-3 - Rules for Tests.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING18
USEA CLASSIC SERIES GUIDELINES
BEGINNER NOVICE NOVICE TRAINING MODIFIED PRELIMINARY
DRESSAGE
USEF Eventing Tests
Novice A - Small Novice 3D - Standard
Training A - Small
Training 3D - Standard Modified A - Small
Modified B - Standard
Preliminary 3D - Standard
FEI Two-Star - Standard
PHASE A Distance 2200 – 3520m 2200 – 3520m 2200 – 3520m 2640 – 3960m 3520 – 4400m
PHASE A Speed 160 – 220 mpm 160 – 220 mpm 220 mpm 220 mpm 220 mpm
PHASE A Time 10-16 minutes 10-16 minutes 10-16 minutes 12-18 minutes 16-20 minutes
PHASE B Distance 800 – 1200m 940 – 1410m 1250 – 1560m 1650 – 1925m 1710 – 2240m
PHASE B Speed 400 mpm 470 mpm 500 – 520 mpm 550 mpm 570 – 640 mpm
PHASE B Speed Fault 470 mpm 540 mpm N/A N/A N/A
PHASE B Time 2-3 minutes 2-3 minutes 2.5 or 3 minutes 3 or 3.5 minutes 3 or 3.5 minutes
PHASE B
Jumping Efforts
PHASE B
Fixed part max. height
PHASE B
Total height including
brush
0 – 6 (Organizer may choose to
not offer jumping for this level).
2’ 6”
3’
3 – 6
2’ 7”
3’ 7”
4 – 6
3’11” maximum brush height
5 – 7
4’1” maximum brush height
5 – 7
4’3” maximum brush height
PHASE C Distance 2400 – 4480m 2400 – 5500m 2400 – 5500m 2880 – 6160m 3200 – 6600m
PHASE C Speed 160 or 220 mpm 160 or 220 mpm 160 or 220 mpm 160 or 220 mpm 160 or 220 mpm
PHASE C Time 15-28 minutes 15-34 minutes 15-25 minutes 18-28 minutes 20-30 minutes
PHASE D
Fence dimensions same as H.T.
level. Refer to Appendix 2
Fence dimensions same as H.T. level.
Refer to Appendix 2
XC heights & spreads - same
as H.T. level. Refer to Appendix 2
XC heights & spreads – same as
H.T. level. Refer to Appendix 2
XC heights & spreads - same as
H.T. level. Refer to Appendix 2
Distance 1625 – 2450m 1875 – 2800 m 2250 – 3150m at 450mpm
2350 – 3290m at 470mpm
2695 – 3675m 3120 – 4160m
Speed 325 or 350 mpm 375 or 400 mpm 490 mpm 520 mpm
Speed Fault 420 mpm 450 mpm 520 mpm N/A N/A
Time 5 - 7 minutes 5 - 7 minutes 5-7 minutes 5.5-7.5 minutes 6-8 minutes
Jumping Efforts 16 – 22
Not more than one effort per
100 meters commenced.
18 – 25
Not more than one effort per
100 meters commenced.
20 – 28
No more than one effort per
commenced 120m @ 470.
No more than one effort per
commenced 110m @ 450.
24 – 30
No more than one effort per com-
menced 130 meters.
24 – 32
No more than one effort per
commenced 130 meters.
SHOW JUMPING
Distance 600m 600m
600m 600m 600m
Speed 300 mpm 320 mpm 325 mpm 325 mpm 350 mpm
Jumping Efforts 9 – 11 9 – 11 10 – 12 10 – 13 11 – 13
Height .79m (2’7”) .90m (2’11”) 1.0m (‘3”3) 1.05m (3’5”) 1.10m (3”7”)
Overall Spread of Oxers 1.00m (3’3”) 1.10m (3’7”) 1.20m (3’11”) 1.25m (4’1”) 1.30m (4’3”)
Overall Spread of
Triple Bars
1.20m (3’11”) 1.30m (4’3”) 1.40m (4’7”) 1.45m (4’9”) 1.50m (4’11”)
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 19
USEA CLASSIC SERIES GUIDELINES
BEGINNER NOVICE NOVICE TRAINING MODIFIED PRELIMINARY
DRESSAGE
USEF Eventing Tests
Novice A - Small Novice 3D - Standard
Training A - Small
Training 3D - Standard Modified A - Small
Modified B - Standard
Preliminary 3D - Standard
FEI Two-Star - Standard
PHASE A Distance 2200 – 3520m 2200 – 3520m 2200 – 3520m 2640 – 3960m 3520 – 4400m
PHASE A Speed 160 – 220 mpm 160 – 220 mpm 220 mpm 220 mpm 220 mpm
PHASE A Time 10-16 minutes 10-16 minutes 10-16 minutes 12-18 minutes 16-20 minutes
PHASE B Distance 800 – 1200m 940 – 1410m 1250 – 1560m 1650 – 1925m 1710 – 2240m
PHASE B Speed 400 mpm 470 mpm 500 – 520 mpm 550 mpm 570 – 640 mpm
PHASE B Speed Fault 470 mpm 540 mpm N/A N/A N/A
PHASE B Time 2-3 minutes 2-3 minutes 2.5 or 3 minutes 3 or 3.5 minutes 3 or 3.5 minutes
PHASE B
Jumping Efforts
PHASE B
Fixed part max. height
PHASE B
Total height including
brush
0 – 6 (Organizer may choose to
not offer jumping for this level).
2’ 6”
3’
3 – 6
2’ 7”
3’ 7”
4 – 6
3’11” maximum brush height
5 – 7
4’1” maximum brush height
5 – 7
4’3” maximum brush height
PHASE C Distance 2400 – 4480m 2400 – 5500m 2400 – 5500m 2880 – 6160m 3200 – 6600m
PHASE C Speed 160 or 220 mpm 160 or 220 mpm 160 or 220 mpm 160 or 220 mpm 160 or 220 mpm
PHASE C Time 15-28 minutes 15-34 minutes 15-25 minutes 18-28 minutes 20-30 minutes
PHASE D
Fence dimensions same as H.T.
level. Refer to Appendix 2
Fence dimensions same as H.T. level.
Refer to Appendix 2
XC heights & spreads - same
as H.T. level. Refer to Appendix 2
XC heights & spreads – same as
H.T. level. Refer to Appendix 2
XC heights & spreads - same as
H.T. level. Refer to Appendix 2
Distance 1625 – 2450m 1875 – 2800 m 2250 – 3150m at 450mpm
2350 – 3290m at 470mpm
2695 – 3675m 3120 – 4160m
Speed 325 or 350 mpm 375 or 400 mpm 490 mpm 520 mpm
Speed Fault 420 mpm 450 mpm 520 mpm N/A N/A
Time 5 - 7 minutes 5 - 7 minutes 5-7 minutes 5.5-7.5 minutes 6-8 minutes
Jumping Efforts 16 – 22
Not more than one effort per
100 meters commenced.
18 – 25
Not more than one effort per
100 meters commenced.
20 – 28
No more than one effort per
commenced 120m @ 470.
No more than one effort per
commenced 110m @ 450.
24 – 30
No more than one effort per com-
menced 130 meters.
24 – 32
No more than one effort per
commenced 130 meters.
SHOW JUMPING
Distance 600m 600m
600m 600m 600m
Speed 300 mpm 320 mpm 325 mpm 325 mpm 350 mpm
Jumping Efforts 9 – 11 9 – 11 10 – 12 10 – 13 11 – 13
Height .79m (2’7”) .90m (2’11”) 1.0m (‘3”3) 1.05m (3’5”) 1.10m (3”7”)
Overall Spread of Oxers 1.00m (3’3”) 1.10m (3’7”) 1.20m (3’11”) 1.25m (4’1”) 1.30m (4’3”)
Overall Spread of
Triple Bars
1.20m (3’11”) 1.30m (4’3”) 1.40m (4’7”) 1.45m (4’9”) 1.50m (4’11”)
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING20
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 21
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING22
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 23
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING24
ST. LOUIS
Meet us in
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 25
Notes
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 27
25
2023
US EQUESTRIAN
RULES FOR EVENTING
COMPETITIONS
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING28
CHAPTER EV EVENTING DIVISION
SUBCHAPTER EV-1 GENERAL RULES FOR ALL EVENTING COMPETITIONS
EV101 Introduction
1. GENERAL. An Event includes one or more phases from: Dressage, Cross-Country, and
Show Jumping. The Federation and the United States Eventing Association (“USEA”)
recognize three types of Events: Tests (Individual or Combined), Horse Trials, and Classic
Three-Day Events.
a. TESTS. Tests consist of one or more Dressage, Cross-Country, or Show Jumping
phases. Tests may be offered as a separate Event or organized in conjunction with a
Federation licensed or endorsed Event.
b. HORSE TRIAL. Horse Trials are comprised of three phases: Dressage, Cross-Country,
and Show Jumping. Typical Horse Trials are held over one or two days, during which the
Athlete rides the same Horse throughout. The Dressage phase must be first. The Cross-
Country and Show Jumping phases may follow in either order. The following Federation
licensed and endorsed levels may be offered: Beginner Novice, Novice, Training, Modified,
Preliminary, Intermediate, and Advanced. There may be a team competition. Teams must
initially consist of three to four Athletes.
c. CLASSIC THREE-DAY EVENT. The Classic Three-Day Event is comprised of three phases,
taking place on separate days, during which the Athlete rides the same Horse throughout.
The Dressage phase is held over one or more consecutive days, depending on the number
of entries, followed by Cross-Country. Cross-Country is comprised of four phases: Phase
A and C (Roads and Tracks), Phase B (Steeplechase), Phase D (Cross-Country Obstacles).
Show Jumping is the last phase. The following levels are offered: Beginner Novice, Novice,
Training, Modified, and Preliminary.
2. RESPONSIBILITY. An Athlete is ultimately responsible for knowing these rules and
complying with them.
3. CIRCUMSTANCES NOT COVERED IN THESE RULES.
a. For any circumstances not specifically covered in these rules, reference must be made to
the following FEI publications:
1. Rules for Eventing;
2. Rules for Dressage;
3. Rules for Jumping.
b. Every eventuality cannot be provided for in these rules. In unforeseen or exceptional
circumstances, it
is the Ground Jury’s duty to make a decision in the best interest of the sport and closest to
the intention of these rules.
EV102 Eventing Showcases and Arena Eventing
These Events are conducted in accordance with the Federation Rules for Eventing. For
specifications, qualifications, and Licensed Official requirements, see Eventing Annex 3 at
the end of this Chapter.
EV103 National Championships
Refer to the Federation website for information on USEF Eventing National
Championships. The Qualifying Requirements and Selection Procedure documents are
updated and approved annually. BOD 6/20/22 Effective 12/1/22
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 29
EV104 Denitions
1. DRESSAGE. Dressage is the harmonious development of the physique and ability of the
Horse. As a result, it makes the Horse calm, supple, loose, and flexible, but also confident,
attentive, and keen, thus achieving perfect understanding with their Athlete. These qualities
are revealed by:
a. The freedom and regularity of the paces;
b. The harmony, lightness and ease of movements;
c. The lightness of the forehand and the engagement of the hind quarters, originating in a
lively impulsion;
d. The acceptance of the bridle, with submissiveness throughout and without any
tenseness or resistance.
2. CROSS-COUNTRY. The Cross-Country phase is to prove the speed, endurance, and
jumping ability of the Horse when it is well trained and conditioned. At the same time, it
demonstrates the Athlete’s knowledge of pace and the use of their Horse across country. It
consists of a course with Obstacles, carried out at an appropriate speed for the level.
3. SHOW JUMPING. The Show Jumping phase is similar to a Show Jumping competition
but without any attempt to find the winner of this phase on its own. The main objective
is to prove that the Horse and Athlete are well trained in the specialist discipline of Show
Jumping. The nature of the course, its length, the speed demanded, and the dimensions of
the Obstacles depend on the degree of difficulty for the whole Event.
4. UNAUTHORIZED ASSISTANCE. Any intervention by a third party, solicited or not, with
the object of facilitating the task of the Athlete or helping their Horse.
5. HORSE FALL. A Horse is considered to have fallen, when at the same time, both its
shoulder and quarters have touched either the ground or the Obstacle and the ground.
6. ATHLETE FALL.
a. Cross-Country: An Athlete is considered to have fallen when they have separated from
their Horse in such a way as to necessitate remounting or vaulting into the saddle.
b. Show Jumping: An Athlete is considered to have fallen when, either voluntarily or
involuntarily, they are separated from their Horse, which has not fallen, in such a way that
they touch the ground or find it necessary, in order to get back into the saddle, to use some
form of support or outside assistance. If it is not clear that the Athlete has used some form
of support or outside assistance to prevent their fall, the benefit of doubt must be given to
the Athlete.
7. OBSTACLE. An obstacle is considered as such if its boundaries are marked with a red
and white marker, or markers, and it is numbered.
8. ELIMINATION. Unless otherwise specified, Elimination means that the Athlete/Horse
combination in question may not continue to participate in the current Event.
9. DISQUALIFICATION. Disqualification means that an Athlete may not take further part in
the Event, with any Horse(s).
EV105 Disqualication Summary Table
1. The Ground Jury may disqualify an Athlete in the following cases when, in its discretion,
the conduct is determined to be unsportsmanlike or abusive:
Conduct Rule Reference
Allowing someone other than the Athlete to school their Horse EV111.1
Riding in the Dressage or Show Jumping arena or close to EV111.3
the Cross-Country Obstacles prior to the Event
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING30
Conduct Rule Reference
Jumping practice fences: EV111.5
• that are not marked
• in the wrong direction
• while they are being held
• that have been raised above the height or spread permitted
• at other time than those permitted by the Organizer
Inspecting Cross-Country Obstacles before they are open EV136.1a
Inspecting Show Jumping Obstacles when the arena is closed EV136.2
Abuse of Horse EV112.1
Exercising with improper saddlery Subchapter EV-10.1
Use of a radio or cellular phone while competing EV139
BOD 7/25/22 Effective 12/1/22
EV106 Breaking Ties
1. In the event of a tie between any two (2) or more Athletes for Horse Trials (EV117.5) and
Classic Three-Day Events (EV151.2b), the individual classification is decided by:
a. The lowest Cross-Country score including penalties for faults at Obstacles, time
penalties, and any other penalty incurred.
b. If there is still a tie, the classification is decided in favor of the Athlete whose Cross-
Country time was closest to the Optimum Time.
c. If there is still a tie, the classification is decided in favor of the Athlete with the lowest
Show Jumping score including time and Obstacle penalties.
d. If there is still a tie, the classification will be decided in favor of the Athlete with the
highest collective marks in the Dressage phase.
e. If there is still a tie, the tie will remain in the final classification.
2. In the event of a tie between any two (2) or more teams, the winning team will be that
whose third placed Athlete has the lowest score.
SUBCHAPTER EV-2 ATHLETE
EV107 Membership for Athletes
1. ATHLETES. Athletes entered in Horse Trials and Classic Three-Day Events must comply
with current Federation and USEA membership requirements. Athletes entered in Tests do
not need to be members of the Federation or the USEA.
2. HORSES. Horses entered in Horse Trials and Classic Three-Day Events must comply
with current USEA registration requirements and must be life recorded with the Federation
upon entering FEI level Events. Horses entered in Tests do not need to be registered with
the USEA.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 31
EV108 Participation
See also EV116 for Tests, Appendix 3 for Horse Trials, and Appendix 8 for Classic Three-
Day Events.
1. ATHLETES. Events are open to professional and amateur Athletes. The age of the Athlete
must comply with the specifications of the Event. For Events, the age of the Athlete is
determined by the birth year.
2. JUNIORS. An Organizer may offer a competition for Juniors at Tests, at Horse Trials
at the Beginner Novice through Preliminary levels, and at CCI1* and CCI2*. Athletes in
Beginner Novice, Novice, Training, and Modified Horse Trials and CCI1* will be considered
as Juniors until the end of the calendar year in which they reach the age of 18. Athletes
in Preliminary Horse Trials and CCI2* Events will be considered as Juniors from the
beginning of the calendar year in which they reach the age of 14 until the end of the
calendar year in which they reach the age of 18.
3. YOUNG RIDERS. An Organizer may offer a competition for Young Riders at Tests, at
Horse Trials at the Preliminary and Intermediate levels, and at CCI2* and CCI3* Events.
Athletes will be considered as Young Riders from the beginning of the calendar year in
which they reach the age of 16 until the end of the calendar year in which they reach the
age of 21.
4. HORSES. Events are open to stallions, mares, or geldings. The age of the Horse must
comply with the specifications of the Event. For Horse Trials and Classic Three-Day Events,
Horses may only compete once and must be ridden by the same Athlete throughout all
phases. At FEI Events running concurrently with a national Event, if a Horse is Eliminated
in the Dressage phase for reasons unrelated to horse welfare, the national Ground Jury,
in consultation with the Technical Delegate and the Organizer, may at their discretion,
permit the Horse to compete in the national Event at the same height level or below. As an
exception to GR841, a Horse is eligible for Events even though it has complete loss of sight
in one eye, provided sight in the other eye is normal and it meets the other requirements.
5. NUMBER OF HORSES PER ATHLETE. The number of Horses that an Athlete may enter
and ride is at the discretion of the Organizer.
EV109 Loss of Qualications
For certain levels, Horses and Athletes must meet qualifying requirements, which are
detailed in Appendix 3. Loss of these qualifications is outlined below and pertains to any
combination of Federation and FEI Events.
1. ESTABLISHMENT OF QUALIFICATION. When a Horse and/or Athlete obtains a Minimum
Eligibility Requirement (MER) at a level, they are “established” (i.e., qualified to compete)
at that level. This establishment does not expire; however, a Horse and/or Athlete who are
established at a level but who have not competed for over 12-months must achieve an MER
at the next lowest height level to renew their establishment at a level.
2. LOSS OF QUALIFICATION (Preliminary/CCI1* level and up)
Loss of qualification will occur when penalties have been assessed during the Cross-
Country phase of an Event as follows:
a. A Horse that is Eliminated, for Disobediences, three times within any 12-month period
will lose its qualification to compete at the highest level at which an Elimination occurs.
b. A Horse that Falls two times in any 12-month period will lose its qualification to compete
at the highest level at which a Fall occurs.
c. A Horse that incurs two consecutive Cross-Country Eliminations for Refusals, Dangerous
Riding, Horse Falls, or Athlete Falls will lose its qualification to compete at the highest level
at which an Elimination occurs.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING32
d. An Athlete who falls from the same Horse three times in any 12-month period will cause
the Horse to lose its qualification to compete at the highest level at which a Fall occurs.
e. Any combination of three total occurrences as outlined in a., b., c., or d. above will result
in loss of qualification.
f. Having lost qualification, a Horse may be re-qualified by achieving two MERs at the next
lower height level within any 6-month period and no sooner than 1-month following the
loss of qualification.
g. An Athlete who is penalized two times in any 12-month period for Dangerous Riding will
lose their qualification to compete at the highest level at which a penalty occurs.
h. Any combination of two total occurrences as outlined in e. and g. above will result in
loss of qualification for the Athlete.
i. Having lost qualification, an Athlete may be re-qualified by achieving two MERs at the
next lower height level within any 6-month period and no sooner than 10 days following
the loss of qualification. BOD 7/25/22 Effective 12/1/22
3. At the Advanced, CCI4* and CCI5* levels, Athletes subject to the provisions of this rule
may request, in writing, to have their or their Horse’s loss of qualifications reviewed by an
Ad Hoc of the Eventing Sport Committee.
EV110 Entries
See also GR909.
1. RESPONSIBILITY. It is the responsibility of the Athlete to enter a Horse at the level that
corresponds to its abilities. If the Athlete is a minor, a specified adult must accept this
responsibility by signing the entry form. If an Athlete starts an Event for which they are not
qualified, the Athlete may be fined up to $50 (payable to the Organizer), at the discretion of
the Ground Jury.
2. ENTRY FORMS.
a. Entry forms must be complete by the closing date. All entry and stabling fees must
accompany the entry form.
b. Mailed entries must be postmarked either on or after the opening date for entries and
mailed to the appropriate event secretary. Online entries must be time stamped by the
designated collection agent on or after the opening date in the time zone of the relevant
Event.
c. Entries that are incomplete, postmarked, or time stamped before the opening date, will
be returned to the Athlete or placed at the bottom of the list of entries.
d. Entries involving Athletes or Horses not yet qualified for the level, but which are
otherwise complete, will be accepted as complete pending qualification.
e. Entries must be received by the end of the day on the closing date. Qualifications must
be fulfilled at least 10 days before the Cross-Country phase of the Event for which it is
needed if the MER has been achieved at a Horse Trial or CCI-S, or at least 24 days if the
MER has been achieved at a CCI-L. For Modified, Preliminary, and Training Classic Three-
Day Events, qualifying Events must be completed within a 24-month period prior to the
start of the Event.
f. Accepted entries are specic to the Athlete and Horse named on the entry form and
may not be transferred to another party without the permission of the Organizer, except
as specied in EV110.9.
3. OPENING DATE. The opening date for national entries must be the Tuesday prior to
the date that falls 6 weeks before the first day of the Event. The opening date must be
published in the Omnibus for the Event.
4. CLOSING DATE. The closing date for entries must be four weeks after the opening date.
This date must be published in the Omnibus of the Event. In the case of insufficient entries,
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 33
the Organizer may accept entries after the closing date. If this is done, the Organizer may
charge an additional fee for the entries accepted after the original date, not to exceed an
amount equal to the original entry fee.
5. WAITING LISTS.
a. If space allows, Organizers will accept all entries postmarked or time stamped on the
opening date. In the event of over subscription at this stage, a draw will be made, and a
waiting list will be established.
b. Entries postmarked or time stamped after the opening date will be accepted or placed
chronologically on a waiting list.
c. At any time, Organizers may fill places that become available with entries from the
waiting list, provided the entries were received between the opening and closing dates.
d. Entries placed on the waiting list that do not compete must have the full amount of their
entry and stabling fees refunded.
6. “HORS CONCOURS” ENTRIES. Athletes may enter Horses “hors concours” with the
permission of the Organizer. They must pay the regular entry fee, be judged in the normal
manner, and must participate in accordance with these rules. “Hors Concours” entries will
not be counted in the final classification.
7. DOUBLE ENTRIES. Except where stated contrary in the Omnibus, an entry for two
Horses may be made for a division in which only one is to compete, with an office fee for
the second Horse. The Horse that will not compete must be declared when the Athlete
receives their number.
8. WITHDRAWALS. Notification of withdrawal must be given directly to the event secretary.
If the Horse is withdrawn prior to 9 p.m. on the closing date for entries, the entry and
stabling fees must be refunded, less an office fee, if applicable, not to exceed $25. If the
Horse is withdrawn after the closing date and time, the entry and stabling fees may be
refunded at the discretion of the Organizer. If the Horse is withdrawn after the closing date,
but before the start of the Event, the scheduled slot for that entry will be assigned by the
Organizer. If the Organizer has replaced the withdrawn Horse with one from the waiting
list, the entry fee less an office charge must be refunded. If stabling for the withdrawn
Horse is occupied by another Horse, the stabling fee must be refunded. The refund policy
must be clearly stated in the Omnibus for the Event.
9. SUBSTITUTIONS. Substitution of an eligible Horse is permitted after the closing date
for entries provided a complete entry form for the substituted Horse is given to the event
secretary before the Horse’s first phase. An eligible Athlete may be substituted after the
closing date for reasons of illness, injury, or the sale of the Horse. The event secretary
must be notified of the change before the Horse’s first phase. BOD 7/25/22 Effective
12/1/22
EV111 Restrictions on Schooling
1. It is prohibited, under penalty of Disqualification, for anyone other than the Athlete who
will ride the Horse in the Event to ride the Horse after 3 p.m. the day prior to the start of the
Horse’s Event.
2. A groom, while mounted, is permitted to walk the Horse or to trot it from one place to
another. A groom may also work the Horse in hand or on the lunge.
3. Riding close to Cross-Country Obstacles or riding in the Dressage or Show Jumping
arenas prior to the actual Event is prohibited, under penalty of Disqualification, unless
authorized by the Ground Jury.
4. The Cross-Country course will be closed to all Athletes on the same date. The course
closing date must be published in the Omnibus of the Event. The Dressage and Show
Jumping arena may not be used after it has been prepared for the Event and closed by
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING34
the Organizer. The Organizer must report any violation of this rule to the President of the
Ground Jury.
5. The only warmup fences Athletes may jump are marked fences provided by the
Organizer. No part of the fences may be held by anyone while a Horse is jumping. These
fences must not be raised more than 10 cm above the maximum height permitted for the
Event in progress (or about to begin). The oxer must not exceed the maximum height
permitted. Ground lines may be placed directly under, or up to 1 m in front of the fence.
Ground lines may not be placed on the landing side. Placement poles are not permitted
at national Horse Trials. The upper ends of crossed poles must be supported by cups. If a
horizontal pole is placed above crossed poles, it must be higher than the upper ends of the
crossed poles. Warmup fences must be jumped in the correct direction and only jumped
at times permitted by the Organizer. Violation of any of the above rules may result in
Disqualification, at the discretion of the Ground Jury.
EV112 Abuse of Horses
1. ABUSE. Any act or series of actions that, in the opinion of the Ground Jury, or in its
absence the Technical Delegate, can clearly and without doubt be defined as abuse of
Horses must be penalized by Disqualification. Such acts include, but are not limited to:
a. Riding an exhausted Horse;
b. Excessive pressing of a tired Horse;
c. Excessive use of whip and/or spurs, and/or bit;
d. Riding an obviously lame Horse.
2. RAPPING. As an exception to GR839, all rapping (poling) is prohibited, and must be
penalized by Disqualification.
3. WHIP. The use of the whip must be for a good reason, at an appropriate time, in the right
place, and with appropriate severity.
a. Reason: The whip must only be used as an aid to encourage the Horse forward, or as a
reprimand. It must never be used to vent an Athlete’s temper. Such use is always excessive.
b. Time: As an aid, the only appropriate time is when a Horse is reluctant to go forward
under normal aids of the seat and legs. As a reprimand, the only appropriate time is
immediately after a Horse has been disobedient, e.g., napping or refusing. Instances of
inappropriate use of the whip include the whip used after Elimination, after the last fence on
course, and/or multiple times between Obstacles.
c. Place: As an aid to go forward, the whip may be used down the shoulder or behind the
Athlete’s leg. As a reprimand, it must only be used behind the Athlete’s leg. It must never
be used overhand (e.g., a whip in the right hand being used on the left flank). The use of a
whip on a Horse’s head, neck, etc., is always excessive use.
d. Severity: As a reprimand only, a Horse may be hit hard. However, it should never be hit
more than two times for one incident. If a Horse’s skin is broken or has visible marks from
the use of the whip, that will be deemed excessive use.
4. SPURS: Spurs must not be used to reprimand a Horse. Such use is always excessive, as
is any use that results in a Horse’s skin being broken.
5. BIT. The bit must never be used to reprimand a Horse. Such use is always excessive.
6. REPORTING. Licensed Officials must report instances of abuse immediately to the
Ground Jury, supported by statements from witnesses, if possible.
7. GROUND JURY. If abuse is reported, the Ground Jury must evaluate the evidence to
determine if Disqualification is appropriate. If a member of the Ground Jury observes the
abuse, they must disqualify the Athlete. There is no appeal against a Ground Jury’s decision
in a case of abuse. The Ground Jury, the Technical Delegate, and the Course Designer for
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 35
the Event, when present solely in their role as Course Designer, have the authority to stop an
Athlete on the Cross-Country course for abuse.
EV113 Dangerous Riding
1. Danger Riding is considered any Athlete who rides in such a way as to constitute a hazard
to the safety or well-being of the Athlete, Horse, other Athletes, their Horses, spectators, or
others.
2. Dangerous Riding will be penalized accordingly, at the discretion of the Ground Jury.
Athletes who engage in Dangerous Riding must receive 25 penalties, be Eliminated, and/or
issued a Yellow Warning Card. The overall score for the Horse/Athlete combination must not
count as a qualifying MER.
3. If Dangerous Riding is reported, the Ground Jury must evaluate the evidence and
determine if a penalty is appropriate. If a member of the Ground Jury observes Dangerous
Riding, they may Eliminate or penalize the Athlete. There is no appeal against a Ground
Jury’s decision in a case of Dangerous Riding.
4. The Ground Jury, the Technical Delegate, and the Course Designer for the Event, when
present solely in their role as Course Designer, have the authority to stop an Athlete on the
Cross-Country course for Dangerous Riding.
5. The President of the Ground Jury may designate one or several deputies (i.e., Eventing
Licensed Officials up to the level for which they are licensed and not in an official function
at the Event, any Level IV or V USEA ECP Instructor or any Athlete who has represented the
USA in a World Championship, Olympic Games, or Pan American Games) for the Cross-
Country phase to advise the Ground Jury regarding any action described in 1 or 4 (above).
Deputies and fence judges will be provided with a red flag to be waved at the Athlete, at the
direction of Ground Jury, to stop the Athlete if the situation continues or for infringement of
the above. BOD 7/25/22 Effective 12/1/22
EV114 Medical Data
1.To ensure that vital information is available to medical personnel in the case of emergency,
Athletes must comply with the following:
a. It is mandatory for Athletes include the telephone number of an emergency contact on the
entry form.
b. Athletes must declare medical conditions that may be relevant in case of a medical
emergency and are responsible for wearing a medical data carrier (i.e., a small emblem or
tag worn on a bracelet, neck chain, or on the clothing, intended to alert medical personnel/
physicians that the wearer has an important medical condition) or a medical armband at
every Event while riding. Conditions that are relevant include recent head injury, serious past
injuries/surgeries, chronic health problems such as diabetes, long-term medications, and
allergies. If in doubt, the Athlete should discuss this with their treating physician.
EV115 Inquiries, Protests, and Appeals
1. INQUIRIES. The Athlete, a parent or guardian of an Athlete under 18 years old, the owner
of the Horse, or the owner’s agent, may inquire about any perceived irregularity or scoring
during the Event. Inquiries may be addressed to the Organizer, Ground Jury, or Technical
Delegate.
2. PROTESTS. The Athlete, a parent or guardian of an Athlete under 18 years old, the owner
of the Horse, or the owner’s agent authorized in writing, are entitled to lodge a protest.
Protests must be addressed to the President of the Ground Jury. Protests must be in writing,
signed, delivered to the event secretary, and accompanied by a fee made payable to the
Organizer, which will be refunded if the protest (or subsequent appeal) is upheld.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING36
3. TIME LIMITS FOR PROTESTS. Protests must be lodged within the following time limits:
Protest Time Limit
Eligibility of a Horse or Athlete Not later than one hour before the start
of the relevant Event
Condition of the Dressage arena Not later than one hour before the start
of the relevant phase
Cross-Country – Obstacle(s), Not later than 6 p.m. the day before the
course length, course condition, etc. start of the phase
Show Jumping – Obstacle(s), Not later than 15 minutes before the
course length, condition of arena, etc. start of the relevant phase
Incidents during the Event or scoring Not later than 30 minutes after the
(except errors as noted below) results of the relevant results are posted
Mathematical or transcription errors Not later than 3 p.m. the day following
the last day of the Event
4. APPEALS. An appeal against a ruling of the Ground Jury must be lodged within one
hour of the announcement of the Ground Jury’s determination. Appeals must be addressed
to the Organizer, in writing, signed, and delivered to the event secretary. BOD 7/25/22
Effective 12/1/22
SUBCHPATER EV-3 ATHLETE – RULES FOR TESTS
EV116 Rules for Tests
1. PARTICIPATION. A Horse may be ridden by more than one Athlete. An Athlete may ride
more than one Horse. The number of Horses that an Athlete may ride may be limited by the
Organizer. The number of times that a Horse may compete may be limited by the Organizer.
2. TESTS. Tests may be judged in the normal manner, as minimum percentage classes, as
clear round classes, on the honor system, purely on time or points, etc. Classification may
be individual, pairs, or teams.
SUBCHAPTER EV-4 ATHLETES – RULES FOR HORSE TRIALS
EV117 Classication
1. CLASSIFICATION IN THE THREE PHASES.
a. In the Dressage phase, each Athlete’s marks are converted into penalty points.
b. In the Cross-Country phase, each Athlete’s penalties for faults at Obstacles are added to
the penalties incurred for excess time.
c. In the Show Jumping phase, each Athlete’s penalties for faults at Obstacles are added to
the penalties incurred for excess time.
2. INDIVIDUAL FINAL CLASSIFICATION.
a. The winning individual is the Athlete with the lowest total of penalty points, after adding
the penalty points incurred in the three phases.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 37
3. TEAM FINAL CLASSIFICATION.
a. The winning team is that with the lowest total of penalty points, after adding the final
scores of the three highest placed Athletes of the team.
4. DISQUALIFICATION, ELIMINATION, WITHDRAWAL OR RETIRE.
a. Disqualification or Elimination from one of the phases is Disqualification or Elimination
from the final classification.
b. The Ground Jury, in consultation with the Organizer, may permit an Athlete who has been
Eliminated in an earlier phase to participate in the subsequent phase(s). After Elimination in
a previous phase, an Athlete who starts a subsequent phase without such permission may
be fined up to $100 payable to the Organizer.
c. An Athlete who withdraws or retires a Horse is considered to have withdrawn or retired
from the entire Event and will not be permitted to continue in subsequent phases with that
Horse, unless permitted by the Ground Jury.
5. BREAKING TIES. See EV106.
EV118 Dressage Phase Rules
1. All tests must be ridden from memory, and all movements must follow the order in the
test.
2. After the signal has been given by the Judge, the Athlete must enter the arena at A within
45 seconds.
3. A test begins once the Athlete and Horse enter at A and ends once the Horse moves
forward after the final salute. Any incidents before the beginning or after the end of the test
must have no effect on the marks.
4. The Athlete should leave the arena as indicated in the test.
5. Athletes must take the reins in one hand to salute.
6. When a movement must be carried out at a certain point of the arena, it should be done
when the Athlete’s body is above this point.
7. The use of voice or clicking the tongue is a serious fault and a deduction of at least two
marks from what would have been awarded for the movement where this occurred.
8. In the case of marked lameness, the Judge at C, after consultation with the other
Judge(s), if applicable, will inform the Athlete that they are Eliminated. There is no appeal
against this decision.
9. A Horse leaving the arena, with all four hooves, between the time of entry and the final
salute, must be Eliminated.
10. A Horse that resists performing the movements of the test for longer than 20 seconds
must be Eliminated.
11. ERRORS OF COURSE. If an Athlete makes an error of course (e.g., takes the wrong
turn, omits a movement, etc.) the Judge at C warns them by sounding the signal. The
Judge may tell the Athlete where to resume the test and the next movement to be executed.
a. If the Athlete makes a subsequent error of course, and the sounding of the signal would
unnecessarily impede the fluency of the test (e.g., if an Athlete makes a transition at V
instead of K), it is at the discretion of the Judge at C to sound the signal.
b. If the Athlete makes an error of course and the Judge does not sound the signal, the
Athlete may only be penalized if the movement is repeated, and the same error occurs.
c. An Athlete is not permitted to repeat a movement unless the Judge at C determines an
error of course and sounds the signal.
d. If the Athlete has started the execution of a movement and tries to do the same
movement again, the Judge(s) must consider the first movement shown only and penalize
for an error of course.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING38
12. ERRORS OF TEST. If an Athlete makes an error of test (e.g., rising trot instead of sitting
trot, does not salute with the reins in one hand, etc.) they must be penalized for an error of
test.
13. If there is more than one Judge, unless all Judges are in agreement on an error, the
Athlete receives the benefit of the doubt.
14. Unauthorized Assistance may be penalized by Elimination, at the discretion of the
Ground Jury.
15. When there are two or more Judges, one Horse and Athlete, who are not participating
in the Event, will perform the prescribed ride in order for the Judges to confer before the
Event begins.
16. The Judge at C may stop a test and/or allow an Athlete to restart a test from the
beginning or from any point in the test if a circumstance has occurred to interrupt a test.
17. Judges must be given at least a 30-minute lunch break and at least a 10-minute break
every two hours. A prior agreement should be made between the Judge and the Organizer
if a Judge will be required to officiate longer than eight hours in one day or be required to
be on the show grounds longer than 10 hours.
EV119 Dressage Phase Scoring
1. MARKING.
a. Judges will award marks from 0-10 for each movement and for each collective mark,
with 0 being the lowest mark and 10 being the highest. All half marks from 0.5 – 9.5 may
be used both for movements and collective marks, at the discretion of the Judge. Scores
given must be recorded with a decimal (e.g., 6.0 instead of 6).
b. Errors of Course or Test will be penalized as follows:
1. 1st Time by 2 points
2. 2nd Time by 4 points
3. 3rd Time by Elimination
2. The following are considered errors, and two points will be deducted per error, but they
are not cumulative and will not result in Elimination:
a. Entering the space around the arena with a whip (when whips are forbidden) or with
boots or bandages on the Horse’s legs or with a discrepancy in dress (e.g., lack of gloves
at the Intermediate and Advanced levels);
b. Entering the arena with a whip (when they are forbidden) or with boots or bandages and
starting before the discrepancy has been noticed. The Judge at C may stop the Athlete and
permit an assistant to enter the arena to remove the item(s). The Athlete may continue the
test, starting from the beginning (from inside the fence) or from the movement where they
were stopped. The marks given before they were stopped are not changed;
c. Entering the arena before the signal is given; Not entering the arena within 45 seconds
after the signal is given, but within 90 seconds is a two point penalty (not cumulative, not
counted as an error).
d. In the case of a Fall of a Horse and/or Athlete, the Athlete will not be Eliminated.
The Athlete will be penalized by the effect of the Fall on the execution of the movement
concerned and in the collective marks.
e. After Elimination, an Athlete may complete their test. The Judge must complete scoring
the test.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 39
EV120 Dressage Phase Elimination Summary Chart
Fault Penalty Applicable Level Reference
Unauthorized Assistance Elimination, at the discretion All EV118.14
of the Ground Jury
Performing the test in Elimination, at the discretion All Subchapter
incorrect dress of the Ground Jury EV-9.9
Not entering the arena Elimination All EV119.2c
within 90 seconds after the
signal from the Judge at C,
except for a valid reason
(losing shoe)
Performing the test with Elimination All Subchapter
improper saddlery, whip, EV-9 and
or spurs EV-10
Marked lameness Elimination All EV118.8
Leaving the arena between Elimination All EV118.9
the entry and final salute
Resistance Elimination All EV118.10
BOD 7/25/22 Effective 12/1/22
EV121 Cross-Country Phase Rules
1. STARTING.
a. Athletes must be directed by a starter at the start box. The Horse does not have to stand
immobile, but the Athlete must not gain an advantage from a “flying” start. Athletes should be
given reasonable warning before their start time, but it is ultimately the Athlete’s responsibility
to be ready.
b. An enclosure approximately 5 m by 5 m must be built at the start with an open front
through which Horses will start and a gap in one or both sides through which Horses may
enter. Athletes must start from within the enclosure and may move around and through the
enclosure. An attendant may lead the Horse into the enclosure and may hold the Horse until
the Horse leaves the enclosure. From that instant, the Athlete is on course and the time is
recorded from when the signal to start is given.
c. If an Athlete starts early, time will be recorded from the moment they crossed the start line.
d. Under exceptional circumstances, the Ground Jury may permit an Athlete to start at other
than their posted start time. The new, agreed upon start time will become the Athlete’s official
revised start time.
e. If an Athlete is not ready to start at their correct time (original or revised), they may be
permitted, at the discretion of the starter, to start when they are ready, subject to the following
conditions:
1. A late Athlete will not be permitted to start if there is any risk of interfering with the
subsequent Athlete.
2. Starting time will be recorded as if they had started at the correct time.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING40
2. TIME.
a. Optimum Time – The distance divided by the designated speed.
1. Completing the course in less than the Optimum Time results in zero time penalties.
2. An Athlete exceeding the Optimum Time will be penalized in accordance with EV123.1.
b. Speed Fault Time – The distance divided by the speed fault speed. Speed Fault Time is
applied at the Beginner Novice, Novice, and Training levels.
1. Completing the course in less than the Optimum Time is not penalized up to the Speed
Fault Time.
2. Completing the course in less than the Speed Fault Time will be penalized in accordance
with EV123.1.
c. Time Limit – Twice the Optimum Time.
1. An Athlete exceeding the Time Limit must be Eliminated.
d. Time is counted from when the starter gives the signal to start and runs until the
mounted Horse reaches the finish line.
1. When an electronic timer is used for the start, the starter must cut the beam with their
hand.
e. For the above, time is counted in whole seconds, parts of a second counting as the next
whole second (e.g., 30.25 seconds is recorded as 31 seconds).
3. ERRORS OF COURSE.
a. All compulsory passages and Obstacles, including all elements and/or options, must be
passed or jumped in order, under penalty of Elimination.
b. All red and white markers must be passed through correctly wherever they occur on the
course, under penalty of Elimination, except as provided for in EV122.5b.
c. Retaking an Obstacle already jumped is prohibited, under penalty of Elimination, except
as provided for in EV122.5a.
4. PACE AND DISMOUNTING. Between the start and finish lines, Athletes may choose
their own pace. They must be mounted to pass all red and white boundary markers.
Dismounting as a result of attempting an obstacle, whether voluntary or not, is penalized
in accordance with EV123.1. Elsewhere on the course, Athletes may dismount without
incurring a fault, other than possible penalties for exceeding the Optimum Time.
5. OVERTAKING.
a. Any Athlete who is about to be overtaken by a following Athlete must quickly clear the
way. An Athlete overtaking another Athlete must do so only at a safe and suitable place.
b. When the leading Athlete is before an Obstacle and about to be overtaken, they must
follow the
directions of the appointed personnel. When the leading Athlete is committed to jumping
an Obstacle, the following Athlete may jump that Obstacle only in such a way that will
cause no inconvenience or danger for either.
c. The penalty for willful obstruction of an overtaking Athlete, failure to follow the
instructions of the appointed personnel, or causing danger to another Athlete is
Elimination, at the discretion of the Ground Jury.
6. HORSES IN DIFFICULTY. If, in attempting to negotiate an Obstacle, a Horse becomes
trapped in such a way it is unable to proceed without assistance, the Horse must be retired
from the Event and the score posted as a Mandatory Retirement.
7. STOPPING ATHLETES.
a. If any part of an Obstacle is obstructed by a Horse or Athlete in difficulty, if any Obstacle
has been dismantled to release a fallen Horse, if an Obstacle has been broken and has
not yet been rebuilt, or in any similar circumstances, subsequent Athletes must be halted.
Athletes may be stopped at Obstacles or at stopping points on the course. In such a case,
an appointed personnel should be posted in the path of the oncoming Athlete. They should
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 41
wave a red flag, which indicates that the Athlete must stop. Failure to stop may be penalized
by Elimination, at the discretion of the Ground Jury.
b. The appointed personnel will stop Athletes only upon the instructions of the control center
or a Licensed Official, or during a rapidly developing emergency at their own Obstacle.
c. The time during which the Athlete was stopped, from the moment they passed the
stopping point until they re-passed the same point after being given the order to restart, will
be recorded. It will be deducted from the Athlete’s total time taken to complete the course.
Time must be taken as the Athlete gallops past the stopping point, not after they halt nor
after a start from the halt. Athletes must be informed of the stopping point.
8. UNAUTHORIZED ASSISTANCE.
a. The following instances of Unauthorized Assistance are prohibited:
1. To join another Athlete and to continue the course together;
2. To be followed, preceded or accompanied, on the course by any vehicle, bicycle,
pedestrian, or horseman;
3. To post people at certain points to call directions or make signals in passing;
4. To have someone at an Obstacle to encourage the Horse by any means;
5. To tamper with the Obstacles or any part of the course, including but not limited to,
markers, indicators, notices, ropes, trees, branches, wire or fences, whether temporary or
permanent.
b. Appointed personnel or spectators who draw the attention of an Athlete to a deviation
from the course may result in the Elimination of the Athlete.
c. Cases of Unauthorized Assistance and associated penalties will be decided by the Ground
Jury.
9. AUTHORIZED ASSISTANCE.
a. Whip, headgear, or spectacles may be handed to an Athlete at any time.
b. An Athlete may receive clarification of jumping penalties from appointed personnel (e.g.,
after jumping a marker at a corner, the appointed personnel may clarify whether it was a
run-out or not).
10. AFTER ELIMINATION. An Athlete who was Eliminated or has retired must leave the
course, mounted or dismounted, at the walk immediately, and may not continue. If the
Athlete continues after being Eliminated or retiring, they must be reported to the Ground
Jury. Violators must be warned or fined up to $100 (payable to the Organizer), at the
discretion of the Ground Jury.
EV122 Cross-Country Phase Denitions of Faults
See Appendix 7 for diagrams.
1. GENERAL. Faults (i.e., refusals, run-outs, circles, and Falls) must be penalized, unless in
the opinion of the appointed personnel, they are clearly not connected with the negotiation
or attempted negotiation of a numbered Obstacle or element. The negotiation or attempted
negotiation of an Obstacle commences with the presentation of the Horse to the Obstacle.
2. DISOBEDIENCES (REFUSALS and RUN-OUTS). a. Refusals.
1. At Obstacles or elements with height exceeding 30 cm, a Horse is considered to have
refused if it stops in front of the Obstacle to be jumped.
2. At all other Obstacles 30 cm or less in height, a stop followed immediately by a standing
jump must not be penalized. If the halt is sustained or in any way prolonged, it is considered
a refusal. The Horse may step sideways but if it steps back, even with one foot, it is
considered a refusal.
3. A second refusal is considered any attempt by the Athlete to reattempt the Obstacle or
element without success or if the Horse is represented at the Obstacle after stepping back,
stopping, or step backs again.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING42
b. Runouts. It is considered a Disobedience if a Horse runs-out, avoids the Obstacle or
element to be jumped in such a way that it must be represented. An Athlete is permitted to
change their mind as to where they jump an Obstacle or element at any time without penalty
for a run-out, including because of a mistake at a previous Obstacle or element.
c. At an Obstacle composed of several elements (e.g., A, B Obstacle), a Horse may be
Disobedient and refuse or run-out twice in all before being Eliminated.
3. CIRCLES.
a. At an Obstacle composed of several elements (e.g., A, B, C, etc.) a Horse must be
penalized once it has jumped the first element and before it has jumped the last if:
1. The Horse passes around the back of any element of the lettered combination that it
subsequently jumps.
2. The Horse crosses between the elements. See diagrams in Appendix 7. Also, see
EV145.1c for possible exceptions at options.
b. After being penalized for a refusal, run-out or circle, an Athlete is permitted to cross their
original track, without penalty, in order to make another attempt and may also circle one or
more times without penalty, until they represent their Horse at the Obstacle.
c. At separately numbered Obstacles, an Athlete may circle between or around the Obstacles,
without penalty, provided they have not represented their Horse at the second or subsequent
Obstacles.
4. FALLS.
a. For Athlete and Horse Fall definitions, see EV104.5 and EV104.6. A Fall must be penalized
when it occurs between the elements of an obstacle composed of several elements (e.g., A B
C etc.).
5. ADDITIONAL ATTEMPTS AT OBSTACLES COMPOSED OF SEVERAL ELEMENTS.
a. It is permitted, but not required, after a Disobedience at an Obstacle composed of several
elements for an Athlete to retake any element already jumped in order to complete the
negotiation of the Obstacle. The Athlete may be penalized for any additional fault even if it is
at an element previously jumped successfully.
b. After a Disobedience, when necessary to negotiate the next Obstacle, it is permitted for an
Athlete to pass through markers in the wrong direction.
6. WILLFUL DELAY. An Athlete is considered to have willfully delayed their finish if, between
the last fence and the finish line, the Horse halts, walks, circles, or serpentines. The Athlete
may be penalized for a Disobedience at the discretion of the Ground Jury.
7. RULE INTERPRETATION. If rule clarification is necessary for the judging of an Obstacle,
the Technical Delegate, as directed by the Ground Jury, must provide the clarification and
sketch, if necessary. This information must be shared with Athletes at the briefing or as soon
as possible.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 43
EV123 Cross-Country Phase Scoring
1. FAULTS AT OBSTACLES, DISOBEDIENCES AND FALLS. To facilitate accurate
administration of EV109.2 (Loss of Qualification) Athlete Falls will be denoted as “RF” on
official score sheets and results.
Fault Penalty Applicable Level Reference
First refusal, 20 penalties All EV122.2
run-out or circle & EV122.3
Second refusal, run-out or 40 penalties All EV122.2
circle at the same Obstacle & EV122.3
Third refusal, run-out or Elimination All EV122.2
circle at the same Obstacle & EV122.3
Third penalized Disobedience Elimination P, I, A EV122.2
on the entire course
Fourth penalized Elimination BN, N, T, M EV122.2
Disobedience on the
entire course
Activating a frangible 11 penalties All
Obstacle in the jumping
effort
Activating a frangible 0 penalties All
Obstacle as the result of a
Fall or Disobedience
First Athlete Fall in which 65 penalties BN, N
they land on their feet and
remain standing
Second Athlete Fall Elimination (RF) BN, N EV122.4
First Athlete Fall Elimination (RF) T, M, P, I, A EV122.4
First Horse Fall Mandatory Retirement (MR) All EV122.4
Willful Delay between the 19 penalties BN, N, T, M EV122.6
last fence and the finish line
Exceeding Optimum Time 0.4 penalty points per second All EV121.2a
Exceeding Time Limit Elimination All EV121.2c
Speed faults 0.4 penalty points per second BN, N, T EV121.2b
under Speed Fault Time
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING44
Fault Penalty Applicable Level Reference
Competing with Elimination All Subchapter
improper saddlery EV-10.3
Error of course not rectified Elimination All EV121.3
Omission of Obstacle or Elimination All EV121.3a
compulsory passage
Jumping an Obstacle in the Elimination All EV121.3b
wrong direction except
when EV122.5b applies
Retaking an Obstacle Elimination All EV121.3c
already jumped except
when EV122.5a applies
Jumping or attempting Elimination, at the All Subchapter
to jump any Obstacle discretion of the EV-9.1e
without headgear, or Ground Jury
with an unfastened
retention harness
Willful obstruction of Elimination, at the All EV121.5c
an overtaking Athlete, discretion of the
or failure to follow the Ground Jury
instructions of the
appointed personnel
while being overtaken
Causing danger to Elimination, at the All EV121.5c
another Athlete while discretion of the
overtaking that Athlete Ground Jury
Failure to stop Elimination, at the All EV121.7a
when signaled discretion of the
Ground Jury
Unauthorized Assistance Elimination, at the All EV121.8
discretion of the
Ground Jury
BOD 7/25/22 Effective 12/1/22
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 45
EV124 Show Jumping Phase Signal
1. An audible signal is used to communicate with the Athletes. The Licensed Official
responsible for judging Show Jumping is responsible for the signal and its use.
The signal is used:
a. To give permission to Athletes to enter the arena when the course is ready for their
inspection and to signal when the inspection time is over;
b. To give the signal to start and activate a 45 second countdown. 45 seconds is the time
an Athlete can spare before commencing their round. The Ground Jury may interrupt the
countdown for unforeseen circumstances. Disobediences, Falls, etc., occurring between the
signal to start and the Athlete crossing the start line in the correct direction, must not be
penalized. After the signal, crossing the start line in the correct direction for a second time
before jumping the first Obstacle is penalized as a Disobedience;
c. To stop an Athlete for any reason or following an unforeseen incident and to signal to them
to continue their round after an interruption (EV126.8a);
d. To indicate to an Athlete that an Obstacle knocked down, following a disobedience, has
been replaced (EV126.8a);
e. To indicate by prolonged and repeated ringing that the Athlete has been Eliminated.
2. If the Athlete does not obey the signal to stop, they may be Eliminated at the discretion of
the Ground Jury except where specifically provided for under EV126.8b.
3. If, after an interruption, the Athlete restarts and jumps or attempts to jump without waiting
for the signal, they will be Eliminated.
EV125 Show Jumping Phase Unauthorized Assistance
1. Unauthorized Assistance is any intervention by a third party with the object of helping
the Athlete or Horse, regardless if it is solicited, between crossing the start line to begin
the course and crossing the finish line after jumping the last Obstacle.
2. Unauthorized Assistance may be penalized by Elimination, at the discretion of the
Ground Jury.
a. If permitted by the Ground Jury, an Athlete may enter the arena on foot or with the help of
a groom without being penalized for Unauthorized Assistance.
b. Any help given to a mounted Athlete to adjust their saddlery or bridle or to hand them a
whip during the round must incur Elimination.
c. To hand a mounted Athlete their headgear and/or spectacles during their round must not
be penalized as Unauthorized Assistance.
d. Warning an Athlete of a deviation from the course must be penalized as Unauthorized
Assistance. The Athlete and/or the individual who have the warning may be Eliminated or
otherwise penalized, at the discretion of the Ground Jury.
EV126 Show Jumping Phase Time
1. The time of a round, recorded in seconds and in tenths of a second, with parts of a second
counting as the next whole second (e.g., 60.2 seconds is recorded as 61 seconds) plus any
time correction, is the time taken by an Athlete to complete their round (EV126.7).
a. After the 45 second countdown signal is given, the Athlete’s time on course starts the
moment they pass the start line in the correct direction or when the 45 second countdown
expires, whichever occurs first. Time is counted until the mounted Athlete jumps the last
Obstacle and crosses the finish line in the correct direction.
b. Electronic timing, supported by one manual timer, is strongly recommended.
c. If electronic timers are not used, two manual timers, one of which must be in line with
both the start and finish lines, and has direct contact with the Ground Jury, is required.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING46
2. TIME ALLOWED. The Time Allowed for a round is calculated using the length of the
course and the speeds outlined in Appendix 2.
a. Time Adjustment – The Time Allowed may be adjusted at the discretion of the Judge(s),
in consultation with the Course Designer and Technical Delegate, if they determine that an
error in the measurement of the course has been made. Adjustment of the Time Allowed
must be made no later than after the completion of three rounds without Disobedience. The
Time Allowed may never be lowered resulting in the awarding of time faults to any Athletes
having ridden prior to the change without Disobedience.
3. TIME LIMIT. The Time Limit is equal to twice the Time Allowed.
4. REFERENCE TIMES. The Time Allowed must be announced prior to the start of the
division. If there is no electronic score board, or it is not visible to Athletes in the in-gate
area, the reference times for all the Athletes in the division should be announced, along
with their score. If the time is adjusted in accordance with EV126.2a, the adjusted time will
then be announced.
5. INTERRUPTED TIME.
a. While the clock is stopped, an Athlete may move around until the signal to start is given.
The clock is restarted when the Athlete reaches the place where the clock was stopped.
Exception: In the case of a Disobedience with a knock down, EV126.8 applies.
b. The responsibility for the clock is the duty of the Licensed Official in charge of the signal,
not the timekeeper.
6. DISOBEDIENCES DURING INTERRUPTED TIME.
a. The time of a round may only be interrupted under the provisions of EV126.5. The clock
is not stopped due to a deviation from the course, run-out, or refusal.
b. Disobediences are not penalized during interrupted time, except for the second refusal
following a refusal with a knock down.
c. The provisions concerning Elimination remain in force during interrupted time.
7. TIME CORRECTIONS. If an Athlete displaces or knocks down any Obstacle as the result
of a Disobedience, the signal must be given. The clock is stopped until the Obstacle is
rebuilt. Once the Obstacle is rebuilt, the signal is given, and the Athlete may continue the
round. The Athlete must be penalized for a refusal and a time correction of 6 seconds is
added to the Athlete’s time. The clock is restarted:
a. For Preliminary, Intermediate, and Advanced when the Horse leaves the ground at the
Obstacle where the refusal occurred. If a Disobedience with a knock down occurs at the
second or subsequent part of a Combination, the clock is restarted when the Horse leaves
the ground at the first element of the Combination.
b. For the Modified level and below where a second refusal is allowed, the clock is restarted
when the Horse leaves the ground at the Obstacle where the refusal occurred or a second
Disobedience, without a knock down, occurs.
8. STOPPING DURING THE ROUND.
a. If an Athlete is unable to continue their round for any reason or there is an unforeseen
circumstance, the signal must be given to stop the Athlete. As soon as it is evident the
Athlete is stopping, the clock will be stopped. When the Athlete may resume their round,
the signal will be given, and the clock will be restarted when the Athlete reaches the place
where the clock was stopped.
b. If the Athlete does not stop when the signal is given, they continue at their own risk, and
the clock must not be stopped. The Ground Jury must determine whether the Athlete will
be Eliminated or allowed to continue for ignoring the order to stop, or whether, under the
circumstances, they should be allowed to continue. If the Athlete is permitted to continue,
their scores following the order to stop are judged in the normal manner.
c. If an Athlete stops voluntarily to signal to the Ground Jury that the Obstacle to be jumped
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 47
is built incorrectly or due to unforeseen circumstances beyond the control of the Athlete,
and they are unable to continue their round under normal circumstances, the clock must be
stopped immediately.
1. If the dimensions are correct and the obstacle in question has been properly built or if
the unforeseen circumstances are not determined by the Ground Jury to be an acceptable
reason for stopping, the Athlete must be penalized for stopping during the round
(EV127.7b) and six seconds will be added to the Athlete’s time.
2. If the Obstacle or part of the Obstacle needs to be rebuilt or if the unforeseen
circumstances are accepted by the Ground Jury, the Athlete must not be penalized. The
time of the interruption must be deducted, and the clock stopped until Athlete can continue
from the point where they stopped. Any delay must be taken into consideration and an
appropriate number of seconds must be deducted from the Athlete’s time.
EV127 Show Jumping Phase Penalties
1. During a round, penalties are incurred for the following:
a. Knocking down an Obstacle (EV127.2)
b. A Disobedience (EV127.3);
c. A deviation from the course (EV127.4);
d. A Fall of a Horse and/or Athlete (EV104.5, EV104.6b);
e. Unauthorized Assistance (EV125);
f. Exceeding the Time Allowed or the Time Limit (EV124.2, EV124.3);
g. 20 jump penalties (EV127.8) 2. KNOCK DOWN.
a. An Obstacle is considered to have been knocked down when an action of the Horse or
Athlete results in:
1. When a Vertical Obstacle or part of an Obstacle comprises two or several parts placed
one above the other and positioned in the same vertical plane, only the fall of the top part is
penalized, even if the part which falls is arrested in its fall by any other part of the Obstacle.
2. At least one of its ends no longer rests on any part of its support.
3. When a Spread Obstacle which requires only one effort comprises parts which are not
positioned in the same vertical plane, the fall of one or several top parts only counts as
one fault whatever the number and position of the parts which have fallen. Displacement of
trees, hedges etc. used as filling must not incur a penalty unless previously determined by
the Ground Jury.
b. Touches and displacements of any part of an Obstacle or its markers, in whatever
direction, while in the act of jumping, do not count as a knock down. If in doubt the Ground
Jury must decide in favor of the Athlete. The knock down or displacement of an Obstacle
as a result of a Disobedience is penalized as a refusal only. In the event of the displacement
of any part of an Obstacle (except the markers) as a result of a Disobedience, the signal
will be rung, and the clock stopped while the displacement is re-adjusted. This does not
count as a knock down and is only penalized as a Disobedience and corrected by time in
accordance with EV126.7.
c. If any part of an Obstacle which has been knocked down is likely to impede an Athlete in
jumping another Obstacle, the signal must be given, and the clock stopped while this part
is picked up and the track is cleared.
d. If an Athlete jumps an Obstacle correctly which has been improperly rebuilt, they will not
incur a penalty, but if they knock down this Obstacle they must be penalized.
3. DISOBEDIENCES.
a. The following are considered as Disobediences and are penalized as such (EV128.5):
1. A refusal;
2. A run-out;
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING48
3. A resistance;
4. A more or less regular circle or group of circles no matter where they occur on the
course or for any reason;
5. To circle around the last Obstacle jumped unless required by the track of the course.
b. It is not considered a Disobedience to circle for up to 45 seconds after a
run-out or a refusal (regardless if the Obstacle has to be rebuilt or not) to get into position
to jump an Obstacle.
4. DEVIATION FROM THE COURSE.
a. It is a deviation from the course when the Athlete:
1. Does not follow the course as set out on the published plan;
2. Does not cross the start or finish line between the markers in the correct direction;
3. Does not jump the Obstacles in the order or in the direction indicated on the plan;
4. Jumps or attempts to jump an Obstacle which does not form part of the course or
omits an Obstacle. The poles of Obstacles not included in the plan may be set in a crossed
position over the obstacle to indicate they are not part of the current course.
b. An uncorrected deviation from the course must incur Elimination (EV128.5).
5. REFUSAL.
a. It is considered a refusal when a Horse halts in front of an Obstacle which it must jump
regardless if the Horse knocks it down or displaces it.
b. Stopping in front of an Obstacle without moving backwards and without knocking it
down followed immediately by a standing jump must not be penalized.
c. If the halt is prolonged, if the horse steps back, even a single pace, it is a refusal.
d. If a Horse slides through an Obstacle, the Judge in charge of the signal must decide
immediately if it counts as a refusal or a knock down. If the Judge determines that it is a
refusal, the signal is given, and the Athlete must reattempt the Obstacle once it is rebuilt
(EV126.8.c2).
1. If the Judge decides that it is not a refusal, the signal is not given, and the Athlete must
continue their round. The Athlete must be penalized for a knock down.
2. If the signal has been given and the Athlete jumps subsequent elements of the
combination, they will not incur Elimination or penalties if elements are knocked down.
6. RUN-OUT.
a. It is considered a run-out when the Horse evades the control the Athlete and avoids an
Obstacle of the course.
b. When a Horse jumps an Obstacle between two red markers or between two white
markers the Obstacle has not been jumped correctly. The Athlete must be penalized for a
run-out and reattempt the Obstacle correctly.
c. It is considered a run-out and is penalized accordingly if a Horse or any part of the Horse
goes past the extended line of an Obstacle, or of an element to be jumped, or the finish line
after jumping the final Obstacle.
7. RESISTANCE.
a. It is considered resistance when the Horse refuses to go forward, halts, makes at least
one somewhat regular or complete half turns, rears, or steps back.
b. It is also considered resistance when the Athlete stops their Horse at any time, except in
the event of an incorrectly rebuilt obstacle or to indicate unforeseen circumstances to the
Ground Jury (EV126.8c2). Resistance is penalized as a refusal.
8. COMPULSORY RETIREMENT. An Athlete incurs 20 or more jump penalties at the Training
level or higher. Compulsory Retirement is enforced at the end of the round unless the
Athlete retires or is Eliminated.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 49
EV128 Show Jumping Phase Faults
1. Disobediences during the time when the round is interrupted (EV126.6b) must not be
penalized.
2. Disobediences, Falls, etc., occurring between the signal to start and crossing the start line
in the correct direction, must not be penalized.
3. Penalties for Disobediences accumulate, not just at the same Obstacle, but throughout the
entire round.
4. Compulsory Retirement is enforced at the end of the round, unless the Athlete retires or is
Eliminated.
5. Faults are penalized by penalty points, Elimination, or Compulsory Retirement in
accordance with this section.
Fault Penalty Applicable Level Reference
Obstacle knocked down 4 penalties All
while jumping
Going through the start line twice 4 penalties All
First Disobedience 4 penalties All EV127.3
Second Disobedience or other Elimination P, I, A EV127.3
Second Disobedience or other 8 penalties BN, N, T, M EV127.3
Third Disobedience or other Elimination BN, N, T, M EV127.3
Fall of Horse and/or Athlete Elimination All EV104.5,
EV104.6b
Exceeding the Time Limit Elimination All EV126.3
Exceeding the Time Allowed 0.4 penalties All EV126.2
per second over
20 or more (jump) penalties Compulsory T, M, P, I, A EV127.8
Retirement
Jumping or attempting to jump an Elimination All
Obstacle in the arena before the start
or after the completion of the round
Starting before the signal is given Elimination All EV124.1b
and jumping the first Obstacle
of the course
Taking more than 45 seconds to jump Elimination All EV124.1b
the first Obstacle after the time of the
round, exceptions: EV124.1b
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING50
Fault Penalty Applicable Level Reference
A Horse resisting more than Elimination All EV127
45 consecutive seconds during
the round
Taking more than 45 second to jump Elimination All
the next Obstacle, or to jump the last
Obstacle and cross the finish line
Jumping the first obstacle while Elimination All EV127.4.a2
omitting to cross the start line between
the markers in the correct direction
Attempting to or jumping an Obstacle Elimination All EV127.4.a4
which does not form part of the course
during the round
Omitting to jump an Obstacle of the Elimination All EV127.4.a4
course or after a run-out or refusal,
failing to reattempt to jump the Obstacle
where the fault was committed
Jumping an Obstacle in the Elimination All EV127.4.a3
wrong order
Jumping an Obstacle in the Elimination All EV127.4.a3
wrong direction
Following a refusal jumping or Elimination All
attempting to jump an Obstacle
which has been knocked down
before it is rebuilt
Jumping or attempting to jump an Elimination All EV124.3
Obstacle after an interruption
without waiting for the signal
Not jumping all the elements of a Elimination All EV150.10b
combination again after a refusal
or run-out
Not crossing the finishing line Elimination All EV127.4a.2
between the markers in the
correct direction after having
jumped the last obstacle
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 51
Fault Penalty Applicable Level Reference
Horse leaving the arena without Elimination All
Ground Jury permission, including
prior to starting
Accepting, while mounted, anything Elimination All EV125.2.c
besides headgear and/or spectacles
Using a whip longer than 75cm or Elimination All Subchapter
weighted at the end, using a whip EV-9.3
substitute
An accident which prevents the Elimination All
Athlete or Horse from completing
the Event
Not entering the arena when the Elimination, at the All
Athlete’s name or number is called discretion of the
Ground Jury
Not entering or leaving the Elimination, at the EV125.2a
arena mounted discretion of the
Ground Jury
All Unauthorized Assistance Elimination, at the EV125
except per EV125.2 discretion of the
Ground Jury
Not stopping when the signal Elimination, at the EV124.2
is rung during the round discretion of the
Ground Jury
Entering the arena without Elimination, at the Subchapter
permitted attire discretion of the EV-9
Ground Jury
Any reason the Horse or Athlete Elimination, at the
is unfit to continue the Event discretion of the
Ground Jury
BOD 7/25/22 Effective 12/1/22
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING52
SUBCHAPTER EV-5 ORGANIZER
EV129 Membership for Organizers
1. EVENTS.
a. Organizers of Horse Trials and Classic Three-Day Events must comply with current
Federation and USEA competition recognition requirements. Organizers of Tests do not need
to comply with current Federation or the USEA competition recognition requirements.
b. Organizers desiring to hold Events under the auspices of the Federation may do so by
applying for a competition license with the Federation as an Eventing Competition (see GR3).
c. Organizers desiring to hold Events under the auspices of the United States Eventing
Association may do so by registering with the USEA, 525 Old Waterford Road N.W.,
Leesburg, VA 22075.
EV130 Organizers’ Rights
Organizers have the right to cancel any Event or division (see GR310), divide any Event into
divisions or sections, alter the published schedule, or refuse any entry (see GR914). The
Organizer must state the refund policy in the Omnibus.
EV131 Omnibus
The USEA Omnibus constitutes the prize list for Events licensed and endorsed by the
Federation. If an Event is not listed in the Omnibus, its Omnibus must include the same
information as provided in the Omnibus and as required by GR9.
EV132 Competition Standards
The Eventing Competition Standards apply to all national levels of Eventing Competitions.
Refer to Annex 5 on the Federation Website for the USEF/USEA Eventing Competition
Standards.
EV133 Division of Entries
1. DIVISION OF ENTRIES.
a. If the number of entries in a division warrant, it may be divided by sections or draw. If
the number of entries in one division of Beginner Novice through Preliminary Horse Trial
exceeds 40, it must be divided. Entries in the Advanced and Intermediate divisions which
exceed 40 may be divided once, at the Organizer’s discretion. Championships and Federation
Selection Trials must not be divided.
b. An Organizer may offer a level under the conditions listed in Appendix 3.
c. An Organizer may divide a level into the sections noted in Appendix 3 (e.g., Junior
Training, Training, etc.). Further division must then be done by draw (e.g., Junior Training A,
Junior Training B, etc.).
d. An Organizer may offer a mixed level section that includes Dressage and Show Jumping
at a higher level and Cross-Country at the level below (e.g., Advanced Intermediate). For
purposes of qualifications and high score awards, these Events must be considered in
accordance with the level of the Cross-Country being run. BOD 7/25/22 Effective 12/1/22
EV134 Starting Order and Timetable
1. STARTING ORDER. If there are only individual Athletes participating, a draw will be
conducted by the Organizer to determine starting order. If an Athlete is riding more than one
Horse, the Organizer may adjust the starting order to allow sufficient time between rides but
must maintain the order of the Horses as drawn. If there are teams competing, the Organizer
may use its discretion to schedule the teams. If an Athlete rides more than one Horse, the
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 53
starting order of the Horses must be determined by a draw. If the third phase of a Horse Trial
is Show Jumping in the reverse order of placing, the drawn starting order must be replaced
for that phase. If the same Athlete has two Horses scheduled too close together, the order
must be adjusted so that there is a minimum of eight Horses, if available, separating them.
The lowest placed Horse will move up in the order as far as possible, before the higher
placed Horse is dropped down.
2. TIMETABLE. A timetable showing Athlete’s starting times must be prepared and
distributed by 7 p.m. the day before the relevant Event. If the third phase of a Horse Trial is
Show Jumping in the reverse order of placing, only the approximate start and finish times
for this phase must be published. If the Organizer of Tests permits entries on the day of the
Event, Athletes may sign up for starting times upon entering and only the approximate start
and finish times for the Events must be published.
EV135 Exercising and Warmup Areas
1. IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS. By 3 p.m. the day prior to the start of the entire Event, or
upon arrival if later, each Horse, including non-competing Horses, must be issued a number.
This number must be visibly worn at all times when the Horse is being ridden or exercised.
Failure to display the number must first incur a verbal warning. Repeated offenses may incur
a fine of $50 (payable to the Organizer), at the discretion of the Ground Jury.
2. EXERCISE AREAS.
a. Areas suitable for the general exercise of Horses must be made available during daylight
hours. The Organizer must inform Athletes of the areas that are available for this purpose.
Horses may only be exercised in these designated areas, or in the warmup areas for
Dressage and Show Jumping.
b. A Dressage warmup area must be provided at a convenient distance from the competition
arena. A practice Dressage arena should be at the disposal of the Athletes, if possible.
c. A warmup area with fences must be provided at a convenient distance from the start of
the Cross-Country and the Show Jumping arena.
d. The warmup area for Show Jumping must include at least two adjustable oxers and two
adjustable vertical practice fences.
e. The warmup area for Cross-Country must include at least three adjustable fences,
including at least one oxer and one solid Cross-Country type Obstacle. Where space or
materials are limited, and with the permission of the Technical Delegate, either or both areas
may contain at least three adjustable Obstacles including at least one oxer. Obstacles must
be marked with red and white markers (red on the right, white on the left).
3. SUPERVISORS. One or more supervisors may be appointed by the Organizer to ensure
that the rules regarding exercising and warming up are adhered to. A supervisor must be
present at times the Organizer has permitted warmup fences to be jumped.
EV136 Inspection of Courses
1. CROSS-COUNTRY COURSE.
a. Before the course has been opened, it is prohibited, under penalty of Disqualification, at
the discretion of the Ground Jury, to inspect the Obstacles or the course without permission
from the Organizer.
b. The Cross-Country course must be open for inspection by 3 p.m. the day before the start
of the Event. All obstacles and markers must be in position when the course is opened. In
the case of multiple courses running on the same track, a sign must be posted at Obstacle(s)
to be changed, indicating such change(s). This must include changes of markers or the
Obstacle(s). Obstacles and markers may not be moved or altered by Athletes, under penalty
of Disqualification.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING54
c. After the course has been opened, it may remain open during daylight hours.
2. SHOW JUMPING COURSE. The course for the Show Jumping phase will be opened
no less than 30-minutes before the start of the Show Jumping phase, and at convenient
intervals during the phase. Athletes on foot will be permitted to enter the arena by the
Ground Jury. An announcement must be made over the public address system to announce
when the course is open for walking. Unless permission has been given by the Ground
Jury, it is forbidden, under penalty of Disqualification, for Athletes to enter the arena on
foot once the phase has started.
EV137 Interruptions and Modications
The Ground Jury, or if the Ground Jury is unavailable, the Technical Delegate, must
determine whether to permit an Event to continue when weather or terrain conditions are
unfit for competition.
1. INTERRUPTIONS. The timetable may be interrupted due to dangerous conditions. If
necessary, the start of any phase may be moved up, postponed, or canceled. The decision
to interrupt or cancel a phase will be decided by the President of the Ground Jury, after
consultation with the Technical Delegate, if possible. As an exception to GR832, in the case
of an interruption the Event will resume as soon as possible from the point of interruption,
and all scores recorded prior to the interruption will stand. Every affected Athlete must
receive sufficient warning before the Event resumes.
2. MODIFICATIONS. After the courses have been opened, alterations to the course and/
or the Time Allowed may be made only when exceptional circumstances (e.g., changes
to footing or hot weather) make Obstacles or a phase unfit for competition. The decision
will be made by the President of the Ground Jury, after consultation with the Technical
Delegate, if possible. In such cases, every affected Athlete must be informed of the
alteration before the start of the phase concerned. Where appropriate, appointed personnel
must also be stationed at the place where the alteration or repairs have been made to warn
the Athlete.
EV138 Medical Requirements
1. ACCIDENTS INVOLVING ATHLETES.
a. In the event of an accident in which an Athlete may be injured or concussed, they must
be examined by designated medical personnel to determine if they may take part in another
phase, ride another Horse, or if they are capable of leaving the grounds. Refusal to be
examined may be penalized by a fine of $100 (payable to the Organizer, at the discretion of
the Ground Jury) and a mandatory Yellow Warning Card being issued.
b. The Ground Jury may direct Athletes who have a Fall, whether or not associated with
penalties, be examined as in paragraph a (above). If the Fall occurs on Cross-Country, the
Athlete’s time will be taken in accordance with EV121.7.
c. Athletes who fail or refuse to follow the advice of the medical personnel regarding
treatment following such a Fall may be subject to Disqualification at the discretion of the
Ground Jury.
2. In conjunction with GR849.6, the following apply in the case of a fall/accident or other
injury that may have caused a concussion (as determined by qualified medical personnel):
a. No loss of consciousness and no sign of concussion - no mandatory suspension;
b. No loss of consciousness but with brief symptoms of concussion e.g., confusion, loss
of memory, altered mental state (all symptoms of concussion must have resolved within 15
minutes both at rest and exercise) - minimum of seven days mandatory suspension. The
day of the injury counts as the first day of the suspension period;
c. Any loss of consciousness, however brief, or symptoms of concussion persisting after
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 55
15 minutes - minimum 21 days mandatory suspension. The day of the injury counts as the
first day of the suspension period.
d. Notwithstanding the above, Athletes who have established a baseline neurocognitive
skills level through a Federation approved testing program (e.g., IMPACT test) may return
to competition upon submission to the Federation a certification that they have passed an
exam establishing that they have suffered no impairment of that level. In addition, they must
submit clearance as required under GR849.6.
e. All other Athletes may, at the expiration of the mandatory suspension period, return to the
Event by complying with the requirements of GR849.6.
3. SAFETY COORDINATOR. See GR846.1.
4. MEDICAL PERSONNEL. See GR847.1.
5. ACCESS. The designated medical personnel must have the capability of rapid deployment
to any part of the arenas or courses, even in adverse conditions. Should this access not be
available, the Ground Jury, on the advice of the Technical Delegate and the Course Designer,
must consider alternatives including removal of the inaccessible portion. BOD 6/20/22
Effective 9/1/22
EV139 Radios and Cellular Phones
The use of a radio or cellular phone while competing is prohibited, under penalty of
Disqualification. The use of radio or cellular phone in Dressage warmup is permitted.
Any other use while on the Event grounds by Athletes, trainers, or members of the Athlete’s
support group, is subject to restriction by the Technical Delegate and the President of the
Ground Jury. The Event must provide adequate, functional radios for communication for
Event staff during an Event. BOD 7/25/22 Effective 12/1/22
EV140 Handling Protests and Appeals
1. HANDLING PROTESTS. The Ground Jury must make a determination, after an
investigation. The President of the Ground Jury must refer any protests which they
determine to be beyond their discretion to the Organizer. The event secretary must record all
protests, forward them to the Ground Jury, and record all determinations of the Ground Jury.
2. HANDLING APPEALS. In the event of an appeal, the Organizer must designate three or
more unconflicted individuals who are familiar with the Eventing rules to hear the appeal.
The event secretary must record all appeals, forward them to the appointed committee, and
record all determinations made by the committee. The committee will make a determination,
after an investigation. The veterinarian or Technical Delegate may be in attendance in an
advisory capacity.
3. To appeal a decision of the Appeal Committee to the Hearing Committee, the appeal must
be filed, in writing, with the Hearing Committee at the Federation’s office within 15 days of
the initial appeal.
EV141 Athlete Representative
1. Prior to opening the Cross-Country course, every Organizer must appoint, with consent,
one or more Athlete Representative(s) from the Athletes participating in the Event. The
Athlete Representative(s) acts as a channel of communication between the Athletes and the
Licensed Officials on any matter directly connected with the Event without removing the right
of an Athlete to speak to the Organizer or a Licensed Official. The Athletes must be notified of
the Athlete Representative(s)’s name and contact information which must also be posted on
the Event notice board.
2. Prior to 6 p.m. the day before Cross-Country, the Athlete Representative(s) may call
a meeting of the Athletes, to be attended by the Technical Delegate. The Ground Jury,
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING56
Organizer, or Course Designer may also attend if specifically requested by the Athlete
Representative(s). The purpose of this meeting is to discuss major issues concerning the
Obstacles on the course and/or the course distances. Any issues brought up during the
meeting must be recorded in writing (the Technical Delegate and Athlete Representative(s)
are responsible for this). The response of the Ground Jury must be in writing and signed by
the President of the Ground Jury and the Athlete Representative(s). This document must be
included with the Technical Delegate’s Report.
3. The Athletes may appoint two additional people (to join the already appointed Athlete
Representative(s)) as Athlete Representatives to facilitate discussion with the Licensed
Officials and the Organizer. These additional two people can be anyone the Athletes choose
and do not have to be competing at the Event.
SUBCHAPTER EV-6 ORGANIZER – RULES FOR HORSE TRIALS
EV142 Dressage Arenas
1. The Standard Arena must be 60 m long and 20 m wide. The Small Arena must be 40 m
long and 20 m wide. The arena used is dependent on the specifications for the test. The
measurements are for the interior of the enclosure. For diagrams, see Appendix 5.
a. The arena should be separated from the public by at least 15 m.
b. The enclosure should consist of a low fence, about 30 cm high.
c. It is recommended that the entrance at A be a minimum of 2 m and a maximum of
4 m wide.
d. Part of the fence at A should be easy to remove to allow access or it may be left open.
2. The letters should be placed outside the enclosure, about 50 cm from the fence. The
letter A should be a sufficient distance from the entrance to allow unobstructed entry. It
is recommended to place a special marker on the fence, level with, and in addition to the
letters.
3. The center line and the points along the center line, if described in the test to be used,
should be clearly and discreetly marked.
4. If there is only one Judge, they must be placed 5 m from the end of the arena, opposite
the letter C. When two Judges are used, one (the President) is placed at C and the other is
placed 5 m from the side of the arena, opposite the letter E or B. When three Judges are
used, one (the President) is placed at C, another (M or H) is placed at the end of the arena
on a line with the Judge at C, to their left or right, 2.5 m in from the long side of the arena,
and the third Judge is placed 5 m from the side of the arena, opposite either E or B.
5. A separate enclosure (e.g., tent, trailer, etc.) should be provided for each Judge and it
should be raised at least 0.5 m above the ground to provide the Judge a good view of the
arena.
EV143 Calculation of Dressage Scores
1. The marks from 0-10 awarded by each Judge for each numbered movement of the test
are totaled and added to the collective marks, any errors of course or test are deducted.
2. For each Judge, the percentage of maximum possible marks is calculated by dividing the
total marks received (minus any error of course or test) by the maximum possible marks
and then multiplying by 100 and rounding the result to two decimal digits. This value is the
individual mark for that Judge.
3. If there is more than one Judge, the average percentage for the Athlete is calculated by
adding the percentage for each Judge and dividing by the number of Judges, always round
the result to two decimal digits.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 57
4. To convert percentage into penalty points, subtract the percentage from 100 for one
Judge or the average percentages for two or more Judges. Round to one decimal digit.
EV144 Cross-Country Phase Courses
1. MARKING OF THE COURSE.
a. Red or White Boundary Markers - These must be used to mark the start and finish lines,
to mark compulsory passages, and to define Obstacles. Boundary markers must be placed
so the Athlete passes through with the red marker on their right and the white marker on
their left. In cases where courses for two or more levels are marked at the same time, only
markers which form the course for the relevant level are considered to be in effect at any
one time.
b. Yellow Directional Markers - These may be used to show the general direction of the
course. Where necessary, they may be superimposed with the first letter or color of the
level. Passing close to them is not required.
c. Numbers and Letters - Each Obstacle must be numbered. Obstacles with elements (see
EV145.1) must also be lettered (e.g., A, B, C, etc.). Compulsory passages must be marked
with the first letter of the level and numbered consecutively. If an Event is running FEI levels
and national levels of the same height level, the national level must be differentiated from
the FEI level(s).
d. Numbers and letters must be colored as follows:
1. Advanced - white letters, blue background;
2. Intermediate - white letters, red background;
3. Preliminary - white letters, green background;
4. Modified - orange letters, blue background;
5. Training - white letters, black background;
6. Novice - black letters, white background;
7. Beginner Novice - black letters, yellow background;
8. Or as designated by the Organizer and printed on the course map.
d. Start and Finish Signs - In addition to the red and white boundary markers, the start and
finish lines must also be marked by distinct signs.
e. Stopping Points - These must be marked by a peg painted in a vivid color, surveyor’s
markers, or by a sign.
2. DISTANCES AND SPEEDS. The distances and speeds are determined by the intended
difficulty of the whole phase. Within the limits outlined in Appendix 2, Course Designers
may choose the distances and speeds most suitable to the terrain and to the quality and
standard of preparation of the Athletes. The number of jumping efforts must not exceed an
average of 1 per every 100 m commenced and any portion thereof (e.g., a course that is
2,580 m may have 29 jumping efforts).
3. FINISH LINE. The last Obstacle of the course must be between 25 m and 75 m from the
finish line.
4. PLAN OF THE COURSE.
a. The following must also be available to Athletes by at least 3 p.m. the day before the
entire Event:
1. The plan showing the track of the course;
2. The position of the start and finish lines;
3. The numbered compulsory passages;
4. The numbered Obstacles;
5. The distance;
6. The Optimum Time;
7. The Time Limit.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING58
5. CROWD CONTROL. A plan must be in place prior to the start of the Event to ensure the
course track is kept clear of crowds to avoid obstruction of the Athletes on course.
EV145 Cross-Country Phase Obstacles
1. OBSTACLES WITH ELEMENTS OR OPTIONS.
a. All significant jumping efforts that the average Horse may be expected to attempt to
negotiate must be defined as an Obstacle or element and marked, numbered and/or lettered
accordingly.
b. Obstacles Composed of Several Elements. (See also Appendix 6)
1. If two or more jumping efforts, set closely together, are designed as one integral
question, they may be designated as elements of a single numbered Obstacle. Each
element must be marked with a different letter (e.g., A, B, C, etc.) and be negotiated in the
correct order.
2. Where two or more jumping efforts are set so closely together that after a refusal,
run out or fall, it would be unreasonably difficult to attempt to negotiate the second or
subsequent effort without retaking one or more earlier efforts, these jumping efforts must
be designated as one numbered Obstacle and lettered accordingly.
c. Obstacle with Options or Alternatives.
1. Where an Obstacle may be jumped in one effort but has options involving two or more
efforts, each of these options must be lettered as an element.
2. Alternative Obstacles or elements may be marked separately and must be identified by
the same number/letter as on the direct route. In this case, both sets of markers must
be marked with a black line. Such alternatives are to be judged as separate Obstacles or
elements, only one of which has to be jumped. An Athlete is permitted to change, without
penalty, from one option to another (e.g., jumping 6a left hand route then 6b right hand
route) provided they have not presented their Horse at the next element of the original line.
(See diagrams Appendix 7)
2. NATURE OF OBSTACLES.
a. The Obstacles must be fixed and imposing in shape and appearance. When natural
Obstacles are used, they should, if necessary, be reinforced so they remain in the same
state throughout the phase. All reasonable precautions must be taken to prevent the
possibility of an Athlete being able to pass mounted under an obstacle. Portable fences
must be secured to the ground in a way that the fence cannot move.
b. The Obstacles at which a Horse, in falling, is likely to be trapped or to injure itself, must
be built in such a way that part of the Obstacle can be quickly dismantled and quickly
rebuilt, exactly as before. The required construction must not detract from the solidity of
the Obstacle. Bullfinches must be constructed so the average Horse will be encouraged to
jump through it.
c. The use of motorized vehicles as the jumpable portion of an Obstacle is prohibited.
3. Safety Markers
a. The types of fences required to use safety markers include:
1. Corners;
2. Fences of less than 3 m jumpable width;
3. Related fences which because of their design offer a jumpable line of less than
3 m width;
4. Fences designed to be jumped on an angle where knocking a marker is a possibility.
b. The safety markers and poles on these fences must meet the following criteria:
1. The poles must be made of a material that cannot shatter, break, or splinter (e.g.,
suitable plastic, carbon fiber or any other appropriate materials);
2. Points anywhere on the poles are prohibited;
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 59
3. Sharp corners and/or edges on the markers must be rounded;
4. Markers must be secured in such a way that they release and/or move away from the
fence if struck by the Horse or Athlete to reduce the risk of injury.
5. All markers and poles must be approved by the Technical Delegate.
4. WATER CROSSINGS.
a. The bottom should be firm and consistent. Water crossing that which are considered to
be an Obstacle must be marked at the entrance.
b. The maximum depth of the water must not exceed 35 cm.
c. The minimum width of water must be 5 m.
d. In water crossings involving Obstacles, the minimum distance between obstacles must
be 9 meters. In all water-to-water Obstacles, there must be a minimum of 6 m of water
before the Obstacle.
e. At the Beginner Novice level, water crossing must be straightforward, Obstacles are not
permitted.
5. NUMBER OF JUMPING EFFORTS.
a. Within the limits outlined in Appendix 2, the total number of jumping efforts must be
related to the length of the course.
b. To calculate the number of jumping efforts, the efforts on the route expected to be taken
by the average Horse must be totaled.
c. At the Beginner Novice and Novice levels, water crossings must be marked, numbered,
and subject to penalties but must not be counted in the number of jumping efforts.
6. DIMENSIONS.
a. Within the limits outlined in Appendix 2, the dimensions of Obstacles should be related
to the quality and standard of preparation of the Athletes.
b. The fixed and solid part of an Obstacle must not exceed the specified height at any of the
points at which an Athlete might reasonably attempt to negotiate the Obstacle.
c. At Obstacles with spread only (e.g., dry or water filled ditch), a guard rail or hedge in
front which facilitates jumping is permitted. It may not exceed 50 cm in height and must be
included in the measurement of the spread.
d. Any roof, or other fixed and solid barrier over an obstacle, must be at least 3.36 m above
the ground.
7. MEASUREMENTS.
a. The height of an Obstacle is measured from the point where the average Horse would
take off. The spread of an open Obstacle (e.g., oxer or ditch) is measured from the outside
of the rails or other material making up the Obstacle on the line it is intended to be jumped.
The spread of a closed Obstacle with a solid top (e.g., table) is measured from the highest
point to the highest point on the line on which the Obstacle is intended to be jumped.
b. When the height of an Obstacle cannot be clearly defined (e.g., natural hedge or brush
fence), the height is measured from the fixed and solid part of the Obstacle.
c. The drop on the landing side of an Obstacle is measured from the highest part of the
Obstacle to the spot
where the average Horse would land.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING60
8. FRANGIBLE TECHNOLOGY.
a. Whenever possible, Obstacles for which frangible technology (e.g., frangible pins, MIM
Clips, or any other load relieving device) is appropriate must be constructed or retrofitted
with frangible technology for the Modified level and above.
b. The Technical Delegate must confirm with the Ground Jury and Course Designer that
the frangible technology employed is consistent with the USEA Cross-Country Obstacle
Design Guidelines. Frangible technology may only be installed by or under the supervision
of Course Designers or course builders who have attended a USEA Seminar on frangible
Obstacle construction.
c. At a minimum, frangible technology devices used at national and FEI Events must meet
the FEI Updated Standard for Frangible/Deformable Cross Country Fences Version 2 (April
6, 2020). As of January 1, 2021, all newly manufactured devices must be compliant with
Version2. Devices manufactured in accordance with Version 1, are no longer compliant as
of December 31, 2021.
EV146 Show Jumping Phase Arena
1. The arena must be enclosed. While a Horse is in the arena during an Event, all entrances
and exits must be physically closed.
2. If the arena is less than 5,000 square meters (i.e., approximately 90 m x 55 m) the
maximum speed to for any division is 350 m per minute. In arenas less than 2,300 square
meters (i.e., approximately 75 m x 30 m) the maximum speed is 325 meters per minute.
EV147 Show Jumping Phase Courses and Measuring
1. Within the limits shown in Appendix 2, the Course Designer may plan a track suitable
to the level of the Event. It is permitted, with the approval of the Technical Delegate and
Ground Jury, to add up to 10% of the maximum permitted distance.
2. The Technical Delegate and/or the Ground Jury must walk the course to inspect the
Obstacles before the start of the Event. The course is the track, the mounted Athlete must
follow from passing the start line in the correct direction up to the finish line. The length
must be measured accurately to the nearest meter. Turns and the normal line to be followed
by the Horse must be considered. The normal line must pass through the middle of the
Obstacles.
3. The start and finish lines must be between 6 m and 15 m from the first and last obstacle.
The start and finish lines must each be marked with a red marker on the right and a white
marker on the left.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 61
4. The round begins once the Athlete crosses the start line for the first time, in the correct
direction, after the signal has been given. The time starts running after crossing the start line
or after the 45 second countdown, whichever occurs first.
EV148 Show Jumping Phase Course Plan
1. An accurate plan of the course must be posted near the arena entrance at least 30 minutes
before the start of each division. An identical copy must be provided to the Ground Jury.
2. The plan must indicate the following:
a. The position of the start and finish lines;
b. The number, letter, and type (e.g., spread or vertical obstacle, triple bar) of Obstacles.
c. The track to be followed by Athletes marked by a series of arrows showing the direction in
which each Obstacle must be jumped.
d. The speed, Time Allowed, and Time Limit.
e. If modifications are made by the Ground Jury the course plan must be updated.
3. Obstacles must be numbered consecutively and in the order they must be jumped.
4. Combination Obstacles may be marked with only a single number. Distinguishing letters
must mark each element (e.g., 8A, 8B, 8C or 8A, B, C).
EV149 Show Jumping Phase Markers
1. Markers must mark the following details of the course:
a. The start and finish lines;
b. The boundaries of the Obstacles.
2. The red and white markers may be attached to the sides of the Obstacles or stand
independently. Vertical Obstacles must have one set of markers. Spread Obstacles must have
at least two red and two white markers to define the limits of the spread.
3. Red and white markers must also be used in the warmup areas to designate which
direction to jump the Obstacles.
4. Athletes must pass between the flags, with red on their right and white on their left, at the
start and finish lines and at Obstacles.
5. Knocking down a marker in the arena does not incur a penalty. If a marker designating
the limits of an Obstacle or the finish line has been knocked down following a Disobedience,
(without passing these lines) or as a result of unforeseen circumstances, the marker will
not be replaced immediately. The Athlete must continue their round and the Obstacle will
be judged as if the marker was in its original place. The marker must be replaced before the
next Athlete is given the signal to start.
EV150 Show Jumping Phase Obstacles
1. Obstacles must be inviting in their overall shape and appearance.
2. The Obstacles and their constituent parts must be such that they can be knocked down,
while not being so light that they fall at the slightest touch or so heavy that they may cause
Horses to fall or be injured.
3. The course should have a balance of vertical and spread Obstacles.
4. Closed combinations are not permitted.
5. A water jump is not permitted, however, a liverpool no wider than 1.8 m with rails over the
water is permitted.
6. Poles must be constructed of timber or have a solid wood core, and other parts of the
Obstacles are held up by supports (i.e., cups). The pole must be able to roll on its support.
The support for the top poles should have an ideal depth of 25 mm. The minimum depth
is 20 mm or a maximum depth of 30 mm. For planks, balustrades, barriers, gates, etc. the
supports must be more open or even flat, with a maximum depth of 13 mm.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING62
7. The minimum length of the jumpable face of an Obstacle is 2.45 m.
8. Within the limits outlined in Appendix 2, at least one third of the Obstacles must be
maximum height, except for the Beginner Novice and Novice levels where there is no
minimum requirements. The overall spread of an oxer may be no more than 20 cm
wider than the maximum height for that division. The overall spread of a triple bar may
be no more than 40 cm wider than the maximum height for that level. At Preliminary
Championship Events, one vertical and one ascending oxer, not part of a combination, and
preferably in the second part of the course, may be built 5 cm higher than the maximum
height allowed for that level.
9. If a maximum dimension has been marginally exceeded due to the material used
for construction and/or by the position of the Obstacle on the ground, the maximum
dimensions will not be considered as having been exceeded, provided every effort has been
made not to exceed the maximum dimensions with the material available. On Obstacles
with sloping rails, e.g., Swedish oxers, fans, etc. two thirds of the length of the top poles
must be within the maximum height for the level.
8. VERTICAL OBSTACLES. A vertical is defined as an Obstacle that has all its jumpable
parts in the same vertical line on the take-off side. If filler or decorations projects forward
of the vertical plane, the Ground Jury must determine before the start of the Event if this
is faultable. Filler or decoration may be deemed by the Ground Jury as decoration and not
faultable. The same Ground Jury determination applies to the front element of a spread
obstacle.
9. SPREAD OBSTACLES. A spread is defined as an Obstacle that requires an effort in both
spread and height, e.g., oxer or triple bar. Only one pole must be used on the back of any
spread obstacle. FEI approved safety cups must be used as support for the back pole of
all spread obstacles and in case of a triple-bar to support all center and back poles of the
Obstacle.
10. COMBINATIONS. Double or triple combinations are a group of two or more Obstacles,
with distances between the elements of 7 m minimum and 12 m maximum. The distance
is measured from the base of the Obstacle on the landing side to the base of the next
Obstacle on the take-off side.
a. In Combinations, each element of the group must be jumped separately and
consecutively, without circling around any element. Faults committed at any element of a
combination are penalized separately.
b. When there is a refusal or run-out, the Athlete must retake all the elements.
c. In a Combination Obstacle, a triple bar may only be used as the first element.
d. Penalties for faults made at each element and during different attempts, are counted
separately and added to the final score.
11. OPTIONS.
a. Options are permitted. Options must be marked on the course plan with the same
number and the word ‘Option’. The Athlete may jump either alternative.
b. If there is a refusal or run-out without a knock-down or displacing of the Obstacle, at the
next attempt the Athlete is not required to jump the Obstacle at which the Disobedience
occurred. They may jump the Obstacle of their choice.
c. If there is a Disobedience with a knock-down or displacing of the Obstacle, the Athlete
must only restart their round when the Obstacle knocked down or displaced has been
replaced and when the Ground Jury gives the signal to start. The Athlete may then jump the
Obstacle of their choice.
d. Red and white markers must be placed at each of the elements of options.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 63
EV151 Classic Three-Day Event Rules
1. CLASSIC THREE-DAY EVENTS. For circumstances not covered under Classic Three-Day
Event rules, refer to Horse Trial rules.
2. CLASSIFICATION.
a. The winning individual is the Athlete with the lowest total of penalty points.
b. For Tie Breaking, see EV106.
3. INSPECTION & EXAMINATION OF HORSES.
a. Examination of the Horses takes place after they arrive but prior to the first Horse
Inspection. The Inspection is performed by a veterinarian, appointed by the Organizer. The
object is to establish each Horse’s identity and state of health but not its soundness. The
Organizer must determine the place and timetable for this examination in consultation with
the veterinarian and inform the Athletes. Abnormal findings regarding the Horse’s identity
of state of health must be report to the Ground Jury as soon as practicable and before the
first Horse Inspection.
b. The first Horse Inspection takes place before the Dressage phase. It is conducted by
the Ground Jury and a veterinarian. The President of the Ground Jury in charge of this
committee. The Horses must be inspected in hand, at rest, and in movement on a firm,
level, and clean but not slippery surface. The committee must Eliminate any Horse they
judge is unfit, due to lameness, lack of condition, or for any other reason.
1. In a doubtful case the Ground Jury may put the Horse in question in a supervised
holding area for examination by a veterinarian. Any findings must be reported to the
Ground Jury and the head veterinarian prior to the horse being re-inspected by the
committee, should the Athlete decide to represent the Horse. Horses in the holding area
will be under the supervision and control of a veterinarian. In the event of a tied committee
vote, the President of the Ground Jury will have a second vote, and the decision will be
announced immediately.
c. The second Horse Inspection takes place after Phase C, during the 10-minute halt
before the start of Phase D. It is conducted by a Ground Jury member and a veterinarian.
Expedient but thorough inspections are ideal to allow Horses the maximum amount of time
for recuperation. The committee must Eliminate any lame or exhausted Horse. At least one
member of this committee should have participated at the first Horse Inspection. In the
event of a tied committee vote, a Ground Jury member will have a second vote.
d. Examination after the Cross-Country Obstacle phase takes place after the Athlete has
completed the course. The examination is performed by a veterinarian, appointed by the
Organizer. The veterinarian has no authority to Eliminate a Horse, but must report any
doubtful case to the Ground Jury and to the head veterinarian. In addition to carrying out
any immediate treatment required by an injured or exhausted Horse, the veterinarian will
determine if each Horse:
a. Is fit to return immediately unassisted to its own stable;
b. Should remain for further treatment before returning to its stable;
c. Should be transported by vehicle, which must be available, either directly to its stable or
to a veterinary hospital.
e. The third Horse Inspection takes place before the Show Jumping phase. It is conducted
by the same committee and under the same conditions as the first Horse Inspection.
f. APPEAL. At the three Inspections, there is no appeal against an Elimination determined
by the Ground Jury. If requested, the President of the Ground Jury must provide a reason
for the committee’s decision after the whole Inspection is completed. The veterinarian will
be a member of the committee present at these three Horse Inspections.
g. At times other than Inspections, a Ground Jury member may Eliminate a Horse, which in
their opinion is lame or unfit to continue.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING64
h. The Horse Inspections must be open to the public.
4. EXPLANATION OF PHASES.
a. Timekeeping for Phases A, B, C, and D is tracked independently. Loss of time in one cannot
be compensated for by gain of time in another.
b. The timetable for Phase B is scheduled to begin 1 minute after the Athlete is due to
complete Phase A.
1. If the Athlete is early or late finishing Phase A, the 1 minute break will be increased or
decreased accordingly (e.g., if an Athlete finishes Phase A 15 seconds early, their break will
be 1 minute 15 seconds; if the Athlete finishes Phase A 20 seconds late, their break will be 40
seconds).
2. If an Athlete is so late finishing Phase A that they cannot start Phase B on time, the Athlete
will be started on Phase B as soon as possible (allowances made for adjustments to saddlery,
etc. are not permitted). The Athlete’s time for Phase B will be recorded from the time the
starter starts the Athlete.
c. The finish time of Phase B is the start time of Phase C.
1. The Athlete’s time of Phase C is not affected by the gain or loss of time on Phase B.
2. The gaining of time on Phase B and/or Phase C will result in additional resting time added
to the 10 minute compulsory halt provided for the second Horse Inspection before the start
of Phase D.
3. The loss of time on Phase B and/or Phase C will not reduce the 10 minute compulsory halt
except as provided below. The Athlete’s starting time for Phase D must be adjusted.
d. It is possible that an Athlete might exceed the Optimum Time for one or more phases.
Normally, the starting time of Phase D will be delayed by the sum of any time lost less the
sum of any time gained. However, if this delay is small (i.e., the Athlete was only a few
seconds late finishing Phase C), the Athlete may be started on Phase D at their scheduled
time, in order not to interfere with the timetable.
5. TIME.
a. Time Limit – For Phases A and C, the Time Limit is one fifth more than the Optimum Time.
For Phase B, the Time Limit is twice the Optimum Time.
b. Time Faults:
1. Phases A and C, exceeding the Optimum Time is penalized 1 penalty point per second.
2. Phase B, exceeding the Optimum Time is penalized .8 penalty point per second.
3. Phase D, exceeding the Optimum Time is penalized by .4 penalty point per second.
4. Speed Faults (i.e., for each second under Optimum Time) is .4 penalty points per second.
6. PACE AND DISMOUNTING. Between the starts and finishes of Phases A and C, Athletes
may choose their own pace. They may dismount and proceed on foot beside their Horse,
including while negotiating compulsory passages. Athletes must be mounted to pass through
the start and finish flags of both Phases.
7. MARKING OF THE COURSE.
a. Compulsory passages for Phases A, B, and C must be numbered consecutively and with
the relevant phase letter from the start.
b. Kilometer Markers - The routes of Phases A and C will be marked at intervals of 1,000
meters by signs. The signs must include the distance from the phase start and the phase
letter.
8. FAULTS. Steeplechase faults must be scored in accordance with EV123. Exception: Speed
faults will not be recorded on Phase B for any Classic Three-Day level. Speed Faults for Phase
D will be assessed according to EV121.2b and Appendix 2.
9. ASSISTANCE. At the start of Phase B and of Phase D, and at any other point determined
and announced by the Organizer, it is permitted to assist the Athlete and to attend to their
horse (groom, water, etc.).
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 65
SUBCHAPTER EV-8 ORGANIZER - LICENSED OFFICIALS
EV152 Licensed Ofcials
Refer to the Federation Licensed Officials Policies and Procedures on the Federation website
for maintenance requirements for all licenses and certifications.
EV153 Licensed Ofcials for Horse Trials
1. The following Licensed Officials are the minimum required at Horse Trials. Higher
level Licensed Officials may serve in the roles listed below. A Second Eventing Technical
Delegate of any level is required if an Event has more than 300 entries, any day where
cross-country and show jumping phases will be running concurrently and the President of
the Ground Jury will not be present on the course during the Cross-Country phase. BOD
7/25/22 Effective 12/1/22
A. Beginner Novice, Novice, Training, Modified and Preliminary
1. Ground Jury: The Ground Jury must include at least one Federation licensed ‘r’ Eventing
judge, who may also serve as the President of the Ground Jury.
2. Additional Judges: Additional Judges for the Dressage phase must be Federation licensed
Eventing or Dressage Judges. Additional Judges for the Show Jumping phase must be
Federation licensed Eventing Judges, Jumper Judges, or Eventing Technical Delegates.
3. Technical Delegate: The Technical Delegate must be a Federation licensed ‘r’ Eventing
Technical Delegate.
4. Cross-Country Course Designer:
1. Beginner Novice, Novice, Training - The Cross-Country Course Designer must be a
Federation licensed Certified Cross-Country Course Designer.
2. Modified and Preliminary - The Cross-Country Course Designer must be a Federation
licensed ‘r’ Eventing Course Designer.
5. Show Jumping Course Designer: Not applicable
B. Intermediate
1. Ground Jury: The Ground Jury must include at least one Federation licensed ‘R’ Eventing
Judge, who may also serve as the President of the Ground Jury.
2. Additional Judges: Additional Judges for the Dressage phase must be Federation licensed
‘R’ Eventing, ‘S’ Eventing, or ‘r’, ‘R’, or ‘S’ Dressage Judges. Additional Judges for the Show
Jumping phase must be Federation licensed Eventing Judges, Jumper Judges, or Eventing
Technical Delegates.
3. Technical Delegate: The Technical Delegate must be a Federation licensed ‘R’ or ‘S’
Eventing Technical Delegate.
4. Cross-Country Course Designer: The Cross-Country Course Designer must be a Federation
licensed ‘R’ or ‘S’ Eventing Course Designer.
5. Show Jumping Course Designer: Not applicable
C. Advanced
1. Ground Jury: The Ground Jury must include at least one Federation licensed ‘S’ Eventing
Judge, who may also serve as the President of the Ground Jury.
2. Additional Judges: If applicable, additional Judges for the Dressage phase must be
Federation licensed ‘S’ Eventing or ‘R’ or ‘S’ Dressage Judges. Additional Judges for the
Show Jumping phase may be Federation licensed Eventing Judges, Jumper Judges, or
Eventing Technical Delegates.
3. Technical Delegate: The Technical Delegate must be a Federation licensed ‘S’ Eventing
Technical Delegate.
4. Cross-Country Course Designer: The Cross-Country Course Designer must be a Federation
licensed ‘S’ Eventing Course Designer.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING66
5. Show Jumping Course Designer: The Show Jumping Course Designer must be a
Federation licensed ‘R’ Eventing Jumping Course Designer, Jumper Course Designer, or FEI
Jumping Course Designer.
EV154 Licensed Ofcials for Classic Three-Day Events
1. The following Licensed Officials are the minimum required at Classic Three-Day Events.
The Higher level Licensed Officials may serve in the roles listed below.
a. Ground Jury: The Ground jury must include at least two Federation Licensed Officials,
one of who may serve as the President of the Ground Jury.
1. If the Ground Jury consists of one Federation licensed ‘r’ Eventing judge, then the
President of the Ground Jury or the Technical Delegate must be a Federation licensed ‘R’ or
‘S’ Judge or Technical Delegate.
b. Technical Delegate: The Technical Delegate must be a Federation licensed ‘r’ or higher
Eventing Technical Delegate.
1. If the technical delegate is a Federation licensed ‘r’ Eventing technical delegate, the
President of the Ground Jury must be a Federation licensed ‘R’ or ‘S’ Eventing judge.
c. Cross-Country Course Designer: The Cross-Country Course Designer must be a
Federation licensed ‘r’ or higher Eventing Course Designer.
EV155 Licensed Ofcials for Tests
LICENSED OFFICIALS AND PERSONNEL. For Tests which include Dressage and Show
Jumping phases, a Federation licensed Eventing Judge is required. This Judge serves as
the Ground Jury and will perform the course evaluation functions of the Technical Delegate.
Other Judges may be Federation licensed Judges, participants, or graduates of the USEA
Training Program, or knowledgeable horse people. A veterinarian and qualified medical
personnel must be present on the grounds during any Cross-Country or Show Jumping
phases.
EV156 Ground Jury Qualications and Duties
1. QUALIFICATIONS.
a. An FEI Eventing Judge or an Eventing Judge from a National Federation may serve on the
Ground Jury for a specific Event. An individual licensed as an Eventing Judge by another
National Federation must obtain a Guest Card (GR1010.16).
b. The following individuals may not serve on the Ground Jury for a particular division:
1. The owner, or Family of the Owner, of a Horse entered in that division;
2. An Athlete, or Family of an Athlete, entered in that division;
3. Chefs d’Equipe whose teams are entered in that division;
4. Trainers or Coaches of Athletes entered in that division.
c. The following are barred from serving on the Ground Jury:
1. The Technical Delegate or the Course Designer of the Event;
2. The Organizer of the Event, or a member of the Organizer’s Family.
3. Family of the Cross-Country Course Designer or the Eventing Jumper Course Designer.
See GR123.
d. For additional restrictions, refer to GR1304, GR10, Sub-chapters 10-C and 10-H.
2. DUTIES:
a. The Ground Jury is ultimately responsible for judging the Event and for resolving or
referring to the Federation all issues that may arise. The Ground Jury, in consultation
with the Technical Delegate, Course Designer, and Organizer, is responsible for ensuring
that all arrangements for the Event, including but not limited to, the arenas, courses, and
Obstacles, including frangible Cross-Country Obstacles, meet the Competition Standards.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 67
The Ground Jury, in consultation with the Technical Delegate, is authorized to modify the
above if they do not meet the Competition Standards.
b. The Ground Jury:
1. Will Judge the Dressage phase. Additional Judges may be appointed by the Organizer, in
accordance with EV157, but the Ground Jury is responsible for all decisions.
2. Will be responsible for all arrangements made by the Organizer for the judging and
timekeeping of the Cross-Country phase. The Ground Jury or the Technical Delegate must
be available to adjudicate on unforeseen circumstances, inquiries, and protests.
3. Will be responsible for evaluating inquiries and protests on the Cross-Country phase.
The Ground Jury’s decision will supersede decisions rendered by a Licensed Official or
appointed personnel of the Event.
4. Will be responsible for judging the Show Jumping phase. This duty may be delegated to
an additional Judge, Technical Delegate, or a panel of Licensed Officials appointed by the
Organizer, in accordance with EV157.
5. Must Eliminate any Horse that is lame, sick, or exhausted; and any Athlete who is unfit to
continue. See also EV112, EV105. There is no appeal against a Ground Jury determination
for these circumstances.
6. At Classic Three-Day Events, the Ground Jury and the veterinarian will form the
committee for the first and third Horse Inspections.
7. At Classic Three-Day Events, the President of the Ground Jury will be based at the control
center (or elsewhere as decided by the President of the Ground Jury) to adjudicate any
unforeseen circumstances. Another Ground Jury member and the veterinarian will form the
Horse Inspection committee for the Inspection during the 10 minute halt.
8. For mixed level sections (EV133.1d), the Dressage Judge must be licensed to ofciate
at the level of the test for which they are responsible. BOD 7/25/22 Effective 12/1/22
3. JURISDICTION OF THE GROUND JURY:
a. At Horse Trials, the jurisdiction of the Ground Jury begins at 3 p.m. the day before the
start of the Event.
b. At Three-Day Events, the jurisdiction of the Ground Jury begins with the first Horse
Inspection.
c. The Ground Jury members are required to remain on the grounds until 30 minutes after
the results have been announced for each phase.
EV157 Additional Judges
1. In addition to the Ground Jury, the Organizer may appoint additional Judges to officiate
the Dressage or Show Jumping phases. These Judges are not required to remain on the
Ground after their duties are complete.
2. Additional Judges are subject to the same restrictions as Ground Jury member, see
EV156.1c, and EV156.1d. However, if an Eventing Course Designer and Show Jumping
Course Designer are different individuals, the Show Jumping Course Designer may also
serve as an additional Judge if they are licensed to do so.
3. Guest Cards (see GR1005).
4. The provisions of GR1304 notwithstanding, additional Judges may officiate at an Event
provided that they do not judge any Athlete(s) or Horse(s) listed in sections .2-.18 of that
rule. There are no restrictions on a Judge if a Athlete(s) or Horses(s) listed in GR1304.2-.18
participates in the Event HC.
EV158 Technical Delegate Qualications and Duties
1. QUALIFICATIONS.
a. The Technical Delegate must be a Federation licensed Eventing Technical Delegate.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING68
b. The following individuals may not serve as the Technical Delegate at an Event:
1. The owner, or Family of the Owner, of a Horse entered in the Event;
2. An Athlete, of Family of an Athlete, entered in the Event;
3. The Course Designer, or Family of the Athlete for the Event;
4. Chefs d’Equipe whose teams are entered in the competition;
5. Trainers or Coaches of Athletes entered in the Event;
6. A Ground Jury member, or a Dressage or Show Jumping Judge at the Event;
7. The Organizer of the Event, or a member of the Organizer’s Family.
c. For additional restrictions, refer to GR1304, Chapter GR10, Subchapters 10-C and
10-H.
2. DUTIES.
a. The Technical Delegate:
1. Is responsible for approving technical and administrative arrangements of the Event.
These arrangements include, but are not limited to, Horse examinations and Inspections,
Horse Accommodations, and assisting in the conducting of the Event.
2. Must inspect and approve the arenas and courses for all three phases. The type,
dimensions of the Obstacles, course lengths, and their suitability for the level of the Event
must be evaluated against the Competition Standards.
3. Must carry out inspections early enough to allow for modifications to be made.
4. May request one of more Horses to test any Obstacle, or any part of the arena or course.
5. Is responsible for the briefing and conduct of all appointed personnel for the Event.
6. Is responsible for investigating inquiries regarding scoring, including penalties awarded,
and report to the Ground Jury for a final determination. The Technical Delegate may advise
the Ground Jury on any decisions.
7. At Horse Trials, the Technical Delegate may serve in place of the Ground Jury during the
Cross-Country phase, see EV156.2.b2.
8. Must submit a Technical Delegate Report, including a record of any disputes and how
they were handled.
9. Must submit complete Eventing Fall Forms within 48 hours following the last day of
the Event.
10. Must submit Accident/Injury Reports in accordance with GR849.4e.
b. If a Federation Course Advisor has conducted an inspection, the Technical Delegate is
responsible for ensuring that the recommendations have been followed. Recommendations
denoted by the Course Advisor as essential must be made prior to the start of the Event. If
the essential recommendation is not complete, the Obstacle must be removed prior to the
start of the Event.
c. The Technical Delegate has absolute authority until they report to the Ground Jury they
are satisfied with the arrangements of the Event, unless superseded by a Course Advisor.
d. A Classic Three-Day Event may be held concurrently with other Events. The Technical
Delegate may be used for national and international Events held concurrently. The FEI
Technical Delegate may be used for the national Event provided they are licensed by
the Federation, otherwise a Federation licensed Technical Delegate must be appointed.
The same Ground Jury, Course Designer, and veterinarian may be used for both Events,
provided they are licensed to officiate at the applicable level.
e. For mixed level section (EV133.1d), the Technical Delegate must be licensed to
ofciate at the level of the Cross-Country phase being offered. BOD 7/25/22 Effective
12/1/22
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 69
EV159 Cross-Country Course Designer Qualications and Duties
1. QUALIFICATIONS.
a. The Cross-Country Course Designer must be a Federation licensed Eventing Course
Designer.
b. A currently licensed FEI Eventing Course Designer must be automatically eligible to
officiate at Federation licensed competitions in accordance with the rules below. There is no
limit on the number of times that such an individual may officiate.
1.Level 2 FEI Eventing Course Designers are eligible to officiate the Intermediate level.
2.Level 3 FEI Course Designers for Eventing are eligible to officiate the Intermediate and
Advanced levels.
c. Individuals residing in the United States and designing courses for national Horse Trials
must be a minimum of a USEF Certified Eventing Cross-Country Course Designer.
BOD 7/25/22 Effective 12/1/22
2. DUTIES.
a. The Cross-Country Course Designer:
1. Is responsible for the layout measurement, preparation, and marking of the route for the
Cross-Country phase of Horse Trials and Classic Three-Day Events, including Phases A, B,
and C.
2. Is responsible for the design and construction of all Obstacles used in the courses.
3. Must visit the site and review changes to the courses or Obstacles at least once within
12 months of the Event for which they are designing.
4. Should be present during the Event.
b. At the Intermediate level and below, the Course Designer is ultimately responsible for the
layout, design, and construction, of the Show Jumping phase. This duty may be delegated
to a Jumping Course Designer, but the Eventing Cross-Country Course Designer must
ensure that the course meets the Competition Standards.
EV160 Eventing Jumping Course Designer
A Federation licensed Eventing Jumping Course Designer or Jumper Course Designer
or a FEI licensed Jumping Course Designer is required to design Show Jumping at the
Advanced levels at Federation Licensed Events. For mixed level sections (EV133.1d), the
Eventing Jumping Course Designer must be licensed to ofciate at the level for which
they are responsible. BOD 7/25/22 Effective 12/1/22
SUBCHAPTER EV-8 ORGANIZER - PERSONNEL
EV161 Course Advisors
The Federation may appoint Course Advisors. Refer to the Federation website for the
Program Procedures.
EV162 Veterinarian Qualications and Duties
1. QUALIFICATIONS.
a. At Horse Trials, a veterinarian appointed by the Organizer must be present on the
grounds during the Cross-Country and Show Jumping phases. They must be a graduate
veterinarian who has experience treating Horses.
2. DUTIES:
a. Horse Trials - The veterinarian is responsible for the emergency care and treatment of
horses during the Cross-Country and Show Jumping phases.
b. The veterinarian may compete in Horse Trials at which they are serving. In that case, a
second, veterinarian must be available to treat Horses.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING70
EV163 Additional Personnel
1. APPOINTED PERSONNEL. Organizers should appoint an appropriate number of
personnel with distinctive badges to assist with the compliance and the operation of the
Event.
2. PERSONNEL AT OBSTACLES AND STOPPING POINTS. One or more appointed
personnel, who are responsible for scoring, pertinent rule enforcement, and emergencies at
their Obstacle(s), must be stationed near each Obstacle and compulsory passage. They may
be authorized to cover more than one Obstacle or compulsory passage, with the approval of
the Technical Delegate. If appropriate, stopping points may also be designated.
3. TIMEKEEPERS. Organizers must ensure that each Athlete’s start and finish times are
accurately taken and recorded by appointed personnel.
4. CONTROLLER. During the Cross-Country phase, there must be a controller. The
controller is responsible for the overall facilitation of the Cross-Country phase, and
including but not limited to, directing emergency response in the event of an accident of
disruption. The controller should have extensive knowledge of Eventing.
5. STARTER. The starter will dispatch Athletes on the course once permitted by the
controller.
6. FARRIER. At Horse Trials and Classic Three-Day Events offering the Preliminary and
Advanced levels, a farrier must be present on the grounds during the Cross-Country and
Show Jumping phases.
7. Appointed personnel should report to the Technical Delegate, who is responsible for
reporting to the Ground Jury.
SUBCHAPTER EV-9 DRESS
1. PROTECTIVE HEADGEAR.
a. At Federation licensed and endorsed Events, Athletes must wear headgear as follows,
except as may otherwise be mandated by local law (see also GR801):
b. Upon arrival, anyone riding a Horse must wear properly fitting protective headgear
which passes or surpasses ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials)/SEI (Safety
Equipment Institute) standards for equestrian use and carries the SEI tag. The harness
must be secured and properly fitted.
c. It is the responsibility of the Athlete, or the parent or guardian or trainer of the junior
Athlete to ensure that the headgear worn complies with appropriate safety standards for
protective headgear intended for equestrian use, is properly fitted, and in good condition.
The Federation, Organizer, and Licensed Officials are not required to verify compliance.
d. The Federation, Organizer, and Licensed Officials make no representation or warranty,
express or implied, about any protective headgear. Athletes are cautioned that death or
serious injury may result despite wearing such headgear as all equestrian sports involve
inherent dangerous risk. No helmet can protect against all foreseeable injuries.
e. Violation of this rule at any time, at the discretion of the Ground Jury, must be penalized
by issuance of a Yellow Warning Card or elimination.
2. PROTECTIVE VESTS.
a. A body protecting vest must be worn warming-up for and in the Cross-Country phase.
Stable, team or club colors are permitted. The Federation recommends that the vest should
pass or surpass the current ASTM standard F1937 or be certified by the Safety Equipment
Institute. Inflatable vests are permitted only when worn in addition to a body protecting vest
during the Dressage and Show Jumping phases.
b. Violation of this rule may be penalized at the discretion of the Ground Jury and may
result in elimination.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 71
3. WHIPS. One whip no longer than 120 cm (47.2”) including lash may be carried when
riding on the flat at any
time. One whip no longer than 120 cm (47.2”) may be carried during the Dressage phase
except in USEF/USEA Championships and USEA Championship divisions. As an exception,
Athletes competing sidesaddle may carry a whip in the Dressage phase at all Events,
including championships. A standard lunge whip may be used when lunging a Horse. If a
whip is carried in the Cross-Country and/or Show Jumping phase, or while jumping any
obstacle before these phases, it must not be weighted at the end or exceed 75 cm (30”) in
length. An adjustable-length whip may not be carried by a mounted Athlete.
4. SPURS.
a. Spurs are optional for all three phases. Spurs capable of wounding a Horse are prohibited.
Spurs must be made of smooth metal. If there is a shank, it must not be longer than 4 cm (1
9/16”, measured from the boot to the end of the spur) and must point only towards the rear.
If the shank is curved, the spurs must be worn only with the shank directed downwards.
Metal or plastic spurs with round hard plastic or metal knobs, i.e., “Impulse spurs” and
“Dummy spurs”, with no shank are permitted.
b. Rowel spurs - are permitted for all three phases and when practicing/warming up. If they
are used, rowels must be free to rotate, round, and smooth (tines are not permitted).
5. DRESSAGE PHASE.
a. Protective Headgear. Any color helmet is permitted. Tasteful and discreet accents, such as
a different color piping or crystal decorations are acceptable, including national flags.
b. Jackets. Beginner Novice through Preliminary - Any single-color jacket is permitted.
Tweeds, pinstripes, tasteful, and discreet accents such as such as a collar, cuff, lapel, piping,
of any color, or crystal decorations are acceptable. Tailcoats are not permitted. Athletes may
compete without a jacket. In such cases, a long or short sleeved shirt with collar and without
neckwear, any color and design; tasteful and discreet accents, such as a collar, cuff, piping,
is acceptable, neatly tucked into riding breeches is acceptable. Intermediate and Advanced -
Jackets are required. Tasteful and discreet accents, such as a different color piping or crystal
decorations are acceptable, including national flags. Tailcoats are permitted.
c. Shirts. Any color and design, tasteful and discreet accents, such as a collar, cuff, piping,
are acceptable with stock and pin, or choker, or tie.
d. Gloves. Beginner Novice through Preliminary – Gloves are optional and must be a dark
color, tan, beige or white. Intermediate and Advanced – Gloves are required.
e. Breeches or jodphurs. Light color or white is permitted.
f. Boots. Black, brown, or other dark hue, modest piping of a different color is permitted. Full
chaps are not permitted. Half-chaps must be black or brown and full grain, smooth leather
with matching leather boots.
g. Members of armed and police forces are permitted to wear service dress, with regulation
gloves, protective headgear and spurs, in accordance with Subchapter EV-9.1, is required.
6. CROSS-COUNTRY PHASE.
a. Protective Headgear. Any color helmet is permitted. Tasteful and discreet accents, such as
a different color piping or crystal decorations are acceptable, including national flags.
b. Shirts. Light-weight clothing is appropriate, a shirt (any color) with sleeves must be worn.
c. Gloves. Gloves are optional and may be any color.
d. Breeches or jodphurs. Any color is permitted.
e. Boots. Black, brown, or other dark hue, modest piping of a different color is permitted.
Full chaps are not permitted. Half-chaps must be black or brown and full grain, smooth
leather with matching leather boots.
7. SHOW JUMPING PHASE.
a. Protective headgear. Any color helmet is permitted. Tasteful and discreet accents, such as
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING72
a different color piping or crystal decorations are acceptable, including national flags.
b. Jackets. Any single-color jacket is permitted. Tweeds, pinstripes, tasteful, and discreet
accents such as such as a collar, cuff, lapel, piping, of any color, or crystal decorations
are acceptable. For Tests, Beginner Novice through Modified, at any Horse Trial format:
Athletes may compete without a jacket. In such cases, a shirt – long or short sleeved with a
collar and without neckwear, of any color and design; tasteful and discreet accents, such as
a collar, cuff, piping, is acceptable, neatly tucked into riding breeches is acceptable.
c. Shirts. Any color and design, tasteful and discreet accents, such as a collar, cuff, piping,
are acceptable with stock and pin, or choker, or tie.
d. Gloves. Gloves are optional and may be a dark color, tan, beige, or white.
e. Breeches or jodphurs. Light color or white is permitted.
f. Boots. Black, brown, or other dark hue, modest piping of a different color is permitted.
Full chaps are not permitted. Half-chaps must be black or brown and full grain, smooth
leather with matching leather boots.
8. At the Preliminary, Intermediate, and Advanced levels when all three phases of a Horse
Trials are run over one (1) day, Athletes may compete without a jacket. Protective headgear,
protective vests, and clothing as above.
9. INSPECTION OF DRESS. A supervisor should be appointed to inspect whips and spurs
before any phase. The supervisor has the authority to refuse permission for an Athlete to
start the phase whose whip or spurs are not permitted. The supervisor must immediately
report the circumstances to the Ground Jury, or Technical Delegate if the Ground Jury is
unavailable, for confirmation. An Athlete who competes with an illegal whip or spurs must
be eliminated. An Athlete who competes with prohibited dress may be eliminated, at the
discretion of the Ground Jury.
10. EXTREME WEATHER. At temperatures above 85°F, a heat index above 85°, or at the
discretion of the Ground Jury or the Organizer, Athletes competing at the Preliminary,
Intermediate, and Advanced levels may be permitted to compete without jackets, in the
Dressage and/or Show Jumping phases. In such cases, Athletes must wear a long or short
sleeved shirt of any color and design; tasteful and discreet accents, such as a collar, cuff,
piping is acceptable without neckwear. Members of the armed and police forces may ride
in their summer uniforms. In inclement weather, Athletes may wear a windbreaker jacket or
raincoat over their clothing; their number must be visible.
SUBCHAPTER EV-10 SADDLERY
1. EXERCISE AREAS. The following restrictions begin at 3:00 p.m. of the day prior to the
start of the entire competition and continue throughout the duration of the event. The
following are compulsory: an English type saddle and any form of bridle, including double
bridle, snaffle, gag or hackamores. Running martingales with rein stops, Irish martingales,
bit guards, boots, bandages, fly shields, nose covers, and seat covers are
permitted. Side reins are permitted only while lunging an unmounted horse, as are
running reins and chambons. Other martingales, any form of gadget (such as a bearing,
running or balancing reins, etc.) and any form of blinkers, are forbidden, under penalty of
disqualification.
2. DRESSAGE TEST.
a. The following are compulsory: an English type saddle and a permitted bridle.
b. A double bridle with cavesson noseband, i.e. bridoon and curb bits with curb chain
(made of metal or leather or a combination), is permitted for some tests. Cover for curb
chain can be made of leather, rubber or sheep skin.
1. Cavesson noseband may never be so tightly fastened as to harm the horse.
2. Lipstrap and rubber or leather covers for the curb chain are optional.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 73
3. Bridoon and curb must be made of metal or rigid plastic and may be covered with rubber/
latex (flexible rubber bridoons and/or curbs are not allowed).
4. The lever arm of the curb bit is limited to 10 cm (length below the mouth piece).
5. The upper cheek must not be longer than the lower cheek.
6. If the curb has a sliding mouthpiece, the lever arm of the curb bit below the mouthpiece
must not measure more than 10 cm when the mouthpiece is in the uppermost position.
7. The diameter of the ring of the bridoon and/or curb must be such as to not hurt the horse.
8. Minimum diameter of mouthpiece to be twelve millimeters (12mm) for the curb bit and ten
millimeters (10mm) for bridoon bit.
c. A rounded snaffle bit made of metal, leather, rubber, or plastic material is permitted for all
tests and may be covered with rubber/latex. The reins must be attached to the bit.
d. It may have a cavesson noseband, dropped noseband, crossed noseband, or flash
noseband.
1. The noseband must be made entirely of leather or leather like material, except for a small
disc of sheepskin, which may be used in the intersection of the two leather straps of a
crossed noseband.
e. A breast plate may be used. For drawings of permitted bits and nosebands see Annex
1on the Federation website for Approved Bits for National Competitions. Permitted bits for a
particular test are specified on each test.
f. Martingales, bit guards, any kind of gadgets (such as bearing, side, running or balancing
reins, etc.), reins with any loops or hand attachments, and any form of blinkers, including
earmuffs, earplugs, hoods, and seat covers are, under penalty of elimination, strictly
forbidden.
g. Any kind of boots or leg bandages are prohibited in the areas around the arena and inside
the arena.
The boots and/or bandages must be removed before entering the space around the
Competition arena or the Athlete will be penalized. See EV136.c.
h. Shoes (with or without cuffs) that are attached with nails or glue or wraps that do not
extend past the hair line of the hoof are permitted.
i. Ear hoods are permitted for all Tests and may also provide noise reduction. However, ear
hoods must allow for ears to move freely and must not cover the horse’s eyes and ear plugs
are not permitted (exception for prize giving ceremonies). The ear hoods should be discreet
in color and design. Ear hoods may not be attached to the noseband.
j. Nose nets are permitted under the following conditions:
1. The entry must be accompanied by a letter signed by the horse’s veterinarian on
letterhead, stating that the horse has been diagnosed with head shaking syndrome and that
the horse’s condition is improved with the use of a nose net.
2. The Nose net must be made of a transparent material and cover only the top half of the
muzzle, not the bit or the horse’s mouth.
k. A neck strap or pommel strap may be used. The strap must be made primarily of leather.
3. CROSS-COUNTRY TEST AND JUMPING TEST.
a. The following are compulsory: an English type saddle and bridle or hackamore. Any form
of blinkers are forbidden.
b. Only unrestricted running martingales with rein stops or Irish martingales are allowed.
Reins must be free of any loops or hand attachments and must be attached to the bit(s) or
directly to the bridle. Exception: u-shaped bit converters may be used so that a bit designed
for use with two reins may be controlled with a
single rein. Gags or hackamores are allowed. In the interest of safety, the stirrup iron and
stirrup leathers must hang free from the bar of the saddle and outside the flap. Any device or
gadget that does not allow an immediate and unrestricted separation of the Athlete from the
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING74
horse in case of a fall is forbidden. There must be no other restrictions or attachments of
any kind.
4. INSPECTION OF SADDLERY.
a. A steward should be appointed to check the saddlery of each horse before it enters the
arena or starts a Test.
b. In the Dressage Test, the checking of the bridle must be done with the greatest caution.
When bit inspections require actual contact with the inside of the horse’s mouth, the
inspector must use a clean protective glove for each horse. If the competitor so requests,
the bridle and bit may be checked immediately after the test has been completed. However,
should the bridle or bit in such a case be found not to be permitted, the competitor shall be
eliminated.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 75
APPENDICES
ANNEXES
APPENDIX 1 LEVELS OF HORSE TRIALS
APPENDIX 2 SPECIFICATIONS FOR HORSE TRIALS
APPENDIX 3 PARTICIPATION IN HORSE TRIALS
APPENDIX 4 EVENTING – PERMITTED SADDLERY FOR DRESSAGE
APPENDIX 5 EVENTING – DRESSAGE ARENAS
APPENDIX 6 EVENTING – CROSS-COUNTRY OBSTACLES
WITH SEVERAL ELEMENTS
APPENDIX 7 EVENTING – DIAGRAMS OF FAULTS AT
CROSS-COUNTRY OBSTACLES
APPENDIX 8 SPECIFICATIONS FOR THREE DAY EVENTS
APPENDIX 9 CONVERSION TABLES
ANNEX 1 BITS, SADDLERY, AND EQUIPMENT
ANNEX 3 EVENTING SHOWCASES AND ARENA EVENTING
ANNEX 5 USEA/USEF COMPETITION STANDARDS
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING76
APPENDIX 1 - LEVELS OF HORSE TRIALS
For an additional description of the types of obstacles that may be presented at a given level,
please refer to the USEA Cross-country Obstacle Design Guidelines, which are not specifically
incorporated by reference.
1. Beginner Novice—The Beginner Novice level is designed to introduce green horses and
riders to Horse Trials, combining dressage, cross-country and Beginner jumping tests. It is for
competitors and horses that have already had experience in schooling competitions in all three
disciplines. The goal for the experience should be educational to build confidence and a desire
to progress.
a. Dressage: Competitors should be prepared to do a walk, trot and canter dressage test with
20-meter figures and a halt.
b. Cross-Country: Obstacles, solid in appearance, with ground lines where appropriate to
enhance the fence profile.
1. There must be no jumps before or after a water crossing within 78 feet (25 meters) before
and 54 feet (16 meters) after.
2. A step up and down, but not in combination, may be included. Ditches must be riveted and
include a visible ground line that has rounded edges and is at least 6 inches (15 cm) above
grade.
3. The track of the course must avoid turns of less than a 20-meter radius.
4. The course may not include more than one combination composed of two elements, where
the fences must be a minimum of 33 feet apart or 54 feet after a ditch or step up.
c. Show Jumping: The jumping course should be inviting and straightforward, preferably with
lines of 82 feet or more and may include only one double set on two strides, a minimum of 34
feet, which may include only one oxer at the a) part of the combination.
2. Novice—The Novice Level is a continuing introduction to Horse Trials. It is designed for
competitors and horses with some experience at lower levels or for experienced riders and
horses new to the sport.
a. Dressage: The dressage will not differ greatly from Beginner Novice.
b. Cross-Country: Obstacles, solid in appearance, with ground lines where appropriate to
enhance the fence profile
1. obstacles in combinations should be a minimum of 33 feet apart, and an obstacle after a
ditch or step up at no less than 42 feet (apart).
2. Steps in combination may include: a step up followed by a step down at a minimum of 30
feet, two steps up at a minimum of 33 feet, or an obstacle after a step up of a minimum 30 feet.
3. Water obstacles may include a step or single fence out of water or a single fence 45 feet
before the water and a single fence 30 feet after water.
c. Show Jumping: The jumping course should be inviting and straightforward, preferably with
lines of 82 feet or more and shall include only one or two doubles, set on two strides of a mini
-
mum of 34 feet. Each combination may include only one oxer at the a) part of the combination.
3. Training—The Training Level is an elementary examination of competitors and horses with
some experience and training.
a. Dressage: The dressage test may ask for further development of the basic gaits, including
lengthening at the trot and canter, as well as 10-meter trot and 15-meter canter figures.
b. Cross-Country: The cross-country may include:
1. Combinations with upright obstacles a minimum of 24 feet from one another, and an ob
-
stacle before and/or after a ditch at a minimum of 30 feet.
2. Steps in combination may include: a step down followed by a step up at a minimum of 30
feet, two steps down a minimum of 18 feet, two steps up at a minimum of 18 feet, or obstacle
after a step up a minimum of18 feet.
3. Water may include a jump into water or a jump out of water or an obstacle jumped from
water to water.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 77
APPENDIX 1 - LEVELS OF HORSE TRIALS
c. Show Jumping: The jumping course must include either (i) two doubles; or (ii) simple
triple combination in the second part of the course with only one oxer.
1. If the oxer is at the “b” or “c” parts of any combination it should be set on two strides at a
minimum of 35 feet.
2. The course should introduce simple technical questions with some related jumps set at a
minimum of 70 feet.
3. If a liverpool is used it must be built as a vertical over the center of the liverpool tray and
a straight forward alternative jump must be offered.
4. MODIFIED: The Modified Level is for the training level horse with the intent on progress
-
ing to the FEI CCI1* and Preliminary level.
a. Dressage: The dressage may include medium paces at trot and canter, as well as the
introduction of leg yielding, and changes of lead through trot.
b. Cross-Country: The cross-country course should introduce tests of accuracy, agility and
boldness, control, judgment and jumping ability.
c. Show Jumping: The show jumping course shall include two doubles, or a double and a
triple combination.
1. If a triple combination is used, it should be in the second part of the course and with only
one oxer.
2. It should be more technical than the training level with any related jumps, set at a mini
-
mum of 70 feet.
5. Preliminary: The Preliminary Level is a moderate examination of competitors and horses
in a regular training program preparing for Two Star Events.
a. Dressage: The dressage test may include medium paces at the trot and canter, as well as
the introduction of leg yielding, shoulder in, rein back, and changes of lead through the trot.
b. Cross-Country: The cross-country should include tests of accuracy, agility, boldness, con
-
trol, judgment and jumping ability. Obstacles may be on a bounce distance.
c. Show Jumping: The jumping course must include either (i) two or three doubles; or (ii) a
double and a triple combination.
1. The jumping course should be more technical than the Training Level and may require
lengthening or shortening of stride.
6. Intermediate: The Intermediate Level is an examination of increasing technical difficulty,
preparing competitors and horses for Three Star Events.
a. Dressage: The dressage test may include canter to halt and walk to canter transitions, as
well as turns on the haunches, simple changes, counter canter and half pass.
b. Cross-Country: The cross-country should now combine in more elaborate settings the
tests introduced at the Preliminary Level, such as combinations with more than one ques
-
tion to be solved.
c. Show Jumping: The jumping course must include either (i) a double and a triple combina
-
tion; or (ii) three doubles, with more related distances, and technical questions than the
preliminary.
7. Advanced: The Advanced Level is the highest national level of Horse Trials. It offers tests
of significant difficulty designed to prepare competitors and horses for either Four or Five
Star Events.
a. Dressage: The dressage test may include extensions in all three paces, half pass at the
trot and/or canter, and single flying changes.
b. Cross-Country: The cross-country should be clearly a test of boldness and scope as it
now combines size with technical difficulty.
c. Show Jumping: The jumping course must include either (i) a double and a triple combina
-
tion; or (ii) three doubles. The jumping course must be the most technical Division of the
national competition.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING78
APPENDIX 2 - SPECIFICATIONS OF HORSE TRIALS
For other specifications, such as depth of water, widths of water crossings, etc., See EV140.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING
APPENDIX 2 - SPECIFICATIONS OF HORSE TRIALS
79
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING
APPENDIX 3 - PARTICIPATION IN HORSE TRIALS
All Minimum Eligibility Requirements (MER), except Classic Three-day Events, must
be obtained within a 4-year period. One MER must be obtained within 12 weeks of the
Event for which it is needed when moving from one level to the next.
Classic Three-Day Events at the Preliminary, Modified, and Training levels, qualifying
competitions must be completed within a 24-month period of the start of the competition.
A competitor and/or a horse may be entered in a Horse Trial without having fulfilled the
qualifications noted below, provided the qualifications have been fulfilled at least 10 days
before the Cross-Country Test of the competition for which it is needed if the MER has
been achieved at a Horse Trial or CCI-S or at least 24 days if the MER has been achieved at
a CCI-L.
At the CCI* level and above, at least one MER must be obtained in the twelve month period
prior to the competition. e.g. a horse and/or rider who have achieved a MER at a CCI4*
level of competition and who have not competed for over twelve months must first achieve
a MER at the next lowest height level.
1. SECTIONS
1.1 JUNIOR (J) - For the purpose of competing in National Horse Trials competitors may
compete as Juniors through the end of the calendar year of their 18th birthday.
1.2 YOUNG RIDER (YR) - Open to competitors from the beginning of the calendar year of
their 16th birthday through the end of the calendar year of their 21st birthday.
1.3 AMATEUR (A) The following may participate in Eventing competitions as an Amateur
Any competitor in possession of a valid Amateur card issued by the Federation; or Any
Senior USEA member who competes in the Training, Novice or Beginner Novice Level who
meets the requirements of Federation GR1306. Individuals declaring such status must
present, upon demand, an audited financial statement in support of the claim of eligibility;
failure to do so will be deemed a violation. Misrepresentation of eligibility under this
provision will subject an individual to disciplinary action under GR1307.6, GR1307.8, and
GR1308.3. Amateur certification under this provision is valid for Eventing competitions
only and does not confer Amateur status for participation in any other Breed or Discipline.
1.4 For the purposes of this rule, in differentiating eligibility for Horse and Rider sections,
FEI divisions are considered to be one level higher than the equivalent National division,
e.g. FEI Two Star is one level higher than a Preliminary Horse Trial. A rider who has
completed an event at the Advanced Level is not eligible to compete as an Intermediate
rider.
1.5 RIDER (R) - Open to competitors who have not completed an event above the next
highest level in the 5 years preceding the date of the competition, e.g. a Novice Rider may
have completed an event at Training level, but not Modified or Preliminary level or higher
in the 5 years preceding the date of the competition; a Training Rider may have completed
an event at Modified or Preliminary level, but not Intermediate level or higher in the 5 years
preceding the date of the competition.
1.6 HORSE (H) - Open to competitors of any age, horse may not have completed an event
above the next highest level. e.g. a Novice Horse may have completed an event at Training
level, but not Modified or Preliminary level or higher; a Training Horse may have completed
an event at Modified or Preliminary level, but not Intermediate level or higher.
1.7 YOUNG HORSE (YH) - Open to competitors of any age, horse may not have competed
above the level and meets the following age restrictions:
a. Novice - four or five years of age.
b. Training - four or five years of age.
80 US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 81
c. Modified - five or six years of age.
d. Preliminary - five or six years of age.
e. Intermediate - six or seven years of age.
f. Advanced - six or seven years of age.
1.8 OPEN (O) - Both horse and rider may have competed at any level.
1.9 CHAMPIONSHIP (CH) - open to all qualified riders on qualified horses.
1.10 OTHER - Restricted by breed or other designation as defined by Organizing
Committee, approved by the Federation/USEA, and designated in the Omnibus listing.
2. DEFINITIONS
2.1 Completion: means having completed the entire Horse Trial with a numerical score.
2.2 Minimum Eligibility Requirement
2.2.1 When achieved at a National Horse Trials an MER is achieved by completing the entire
Horse Trial and scoring. -not more than 45 penalty points in the Dressage Test; and - No
jumping penalties at obstacles on the Cross Country Test unless specified otherwise, and
not more than 75 seconds (30 penalty points) exceeding the optimum time; and - not
more than 16 penalties at obstacles in the Jumping Test. -25 penalty points received
for Dangerous Riding will not achieve a National Qualifying result. Exceptions to the
qualifications noted below may only be approved by the Credentials Committee.
2.2.2 When achieved at an FEI Competition an MER is achieved by completing the entire
Horse Trial and scoring. -not more than 45 penalty points in the Dressage Test; and - No
jumping penalties at obstacles on the Cross Country Test unless specified otherwise, and
not more than 75 seconds (30 penalty points) exceeding the optimum time for one, two,
three, and four star competitions and 100 seconds (40 penalty points) exceeding the
optimum time for five star competitions; and - not more than 16 penalties at obstacles in
the Jumping Test (see Article 517 of the FEI Eventing Rules).
2.3 Uncategorized Rider: Riders who have not been categorized through proven
competence at certain levels of competition i.e. A rider, B riders, etc. by the FEI per
Article 520 of the FEI Eventing Rules for the purpose of determining rider eligibility for
International Horse Trials and Events. All requirements of the FEI must be achieved as a
combination. When multiple Minimum Eligibility Requirements are required, one of the
Minimum Eligibility Requirements can be achieved incurring 20 penalties at the obstacles
of the Cross Country Test. All Federation requirements do not need to be achieved as a
combination.
2.4 Categorized Riders: Riders who have been categorized through proven competence
at certain levels of competition A riders, B riders, etc. by the FEI per Article 520 of the FEI
Eventing Rules for the purpose of determining rider eligibility for International Horse Trials
and Events. When multiple Minimum Eligibility Requirements are required, one of the
Minimum Eligibility Requirements can be achieved incurring 20 penalties at the obstacles
of the Cross Country Test. All Federation requirements do not need to be achieved as a
combination.
3. LEVELS OF HORSE TRIALS AND EVENTS
All MER requirements for Modied, Preliminary, Intermediate, and Advanced levels
(except Classic Three-day Events), are required for Horses and Athletes to move from
one level to the next. After obtaining an MER at the Intro level or above horses and
riders are established at the level. Horses and athletes having achieved an MER at the
level and have not competed at the level over twelve-months must achieve a MER at the
next lowest height level – see EV105.1.
APPENDIX 3 - PARTICIPATION IN HORSE TRIALS
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING82
3.1 BEGINNER NOVICE (B) - Open to competitors of any age, on horses four years of age
and older.
3.2 NOVICE (N) - Open to competitors of any age, on horses four years of age or older.
3.3 TRAINING (T) - Open to competitors of any age, on horses four years of age or older.
3.4 MODIFIED (M) – Open to competitors of any age, on horses four years of age or older.
The competitor must have obtained an MER at two Horse Trials at the Training Level or
higher.
3.5 PRELIMINARY (P) - Open to competitors from the beginning of the calendar year of
their 14th birthday, on horses five years of age or older. The competitor must have obtained
an MER at six Horse Trials at the Training Level or higher. The Horse must have obtained
an MER at four Horse Trials at the Training Level or higher: One of the four MERs must
be as a combination. Athletes with more than 10 MERs at the Preliminary Level or
higher are exempt from one MER in combination.
3.6 TRAINING CLASSIC THREE-DAY EVENT- Open to competitors of any age, on horses
four years of age or older. Both the competitor and the horse as a combination must have
obtained MER’s at three Horse Trials at the Training Level or higher, plus an additional MER
at the Training Level or higher with no more than 20 jumping penalties at obstacles on the
Cross Country test. A competitor established at the Preliminary Level may compete on a
horse which has obtained 2 MER’s at the Training Level or higher. Qualifying Events must
be completed within a 24 month period of the start of the Classic Competition.
3.7 MODIFIED THREE-DAY EVENT- Open to competitors of any age, on horses five years
of age or older. Both the competitor and the horse as a combination must have obtained
MER’s at three Horse Trials at the Training Level or higher, plus an additional MER at
Modified Level or higher with no jumping penalties at obstacles on the Cross-Country test.
A competitor established at the Preliminary Level may compete on a horse which has
obtained two MERs at the Training Level or higher. Qualifying competitions must be
completed within a 24 month period of the start of the Classic Competition.
3.8 PRELIMINARY CLASSIC THREE-DAY EVENT- Open to competitors beginning the
calendar year of their 14th birthday, on horses five years of age or older. Both the
competitor and the horse as a combination, must have obtained an MER at three Horse
Trials at the Preliminary Level or higher, plus an additional MER at the Preliminary Level
or higher with no more than 20 Jumping Penalties at obstacles on the Cross Country test.
Qualifying Events must be completed within a 24 month period of the start of the Classic
Competition.
3.9 INTERMEDIATE (I) - Open to competitors from the beginning of the calendar year of
their 16th birthday, on horses six years of age or older. The Athlete must have obtained
an MER at six Horse Trials at the Preliminary Level or higher. The horse must have
obtained an MER at four Horse Trials at the Preliminary Level or higher: One of the
four MERs must be as a combination. Competitors with more than 10 MERs at the
Intermediate Level or higher are exempt from one MER in combination.
3.10 ADVANCED (A) - Open to competitors from the beginning of the calendar year of their
18th birthday, on horses six years of age or older. The Athlete must have obtained an MER
at six Horse Trials at the Intermediate Level or higher. The Horse must have obtained an
MER at four Horse Trials at the Intermediate Level or higher: One of the four MERs must
be as a combination. Athletes with more than 10 MERs at the Advanced Level or higher
are exempt from one MER in combination. BOD 7/25/22 Effective 12/1/22
APPENDIX 3 - PARTICIPATION IN HORSE TRIALS
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 83
4. LEVELS OF INTERNATIONAL HORSE TRIALS AND EVENTS
4.1 UNCATEGORIZED RIDERS Listed below are the Federation requirements to compete in
an FEI Competition. Additionally, all horses and riders must meet the minimum eligibility
requirements (MER) published by the FEI which must be achieved by competitor and
horse as a combination. Where FEI requirements refer to a “CCI” this may be satisfied by
achieving an MER at a CCI-L or CCI-S of the level stated. When multiple MERs are required,
one of the Minimum Eligibility Requirements can be achieved incurring 20 penalties at the
obstacles of the Cross Country Test. All Federation requirements do not need to be achieved
as a combination. At the CCI1* level and above, at least one MER must be obtained in the
twelvemonth period prior to the competition. e.g. a horse and/or rider who have achieved
a MER at a CCI4* level of competition and who have not competed for over twelve months
must first achieve a MER at the next lowest height level.
4.1.1 CCI1* Both the competitor and the horse, though not necessarily as a combination,
must have achieved 1 MER at the Modified level or higher.
FEI Requirements Federation Requirements
CCI1* 1 Modified or higher (MER)
4.1.2 CCI2*-S Both the competitor and the horse, though not necessarily as a combination,
must have achieved 1 MER at the Preliminary level or higher.
FEI Requirements Federation Requirements
CCI2*-S 1 Preliminary or higher (MER)
4.1.3 CCI3*-S Having met the minimum requirements (MER) of the FEI, both the competitor
and the horse, though not necessarily as a combination, must have achieved 2 MERs at the
Preliminary level or higher plus an additional MER at the Preliminary level or higher with no
more than 20 Jumping Penalties at obstacles on the Cross Country test, plus 1 MER at the
Intermediate level or higher.
FEI Requirements Federation Requirements
CCI3*-S 1 CCI2*-S
2 Preliminary or higher (MER) +
1 Preliminary or higher (MER) with
no more than 20 Jumping Penalties at
obstacles on the Cross Country test +
1 Intermediate or higher (MER)
APPENDIX 3 - PARTICIPATION IN HORSE TRIALS
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING84
4.1.4 CCI4*-S Having met the minimum eligibility requirements (MER) of the FEI, both the
competitor and the horse, though not necessarily as a combination, must have achieved 2
MERs at the Intermediate level or higher.
FEI Requirements Federation Requirements
CCI4*-S 3 CCI3* 2 Intermediate or higher (MER)
4.1.5 CCI2*-L Both the competitor and the horse, though not necessarily as a combination,
must have achieved 3 MERs at the Preliminary level or higher plus and additional MER
at the Preliminary level or higher with no more than 20 Jumping Penalties on the Cross
Country test.
FEI Requirements Federation Requirements
CCI2*-L
3 Preliminary or higher (MER)
1 Preliminary or higher (MER) with
no more than 20 Jumping Penalties at
obstacles on the Cross Country test
4.1.6 CCI3*-L
4.1.6.1 UNCATEGORIZED RIDERS
Having met the minimum eligibility requirements (MER) of the FEI, both the competitor
and the horse, though not necessarily as a combination, must have achieved 2 MERs at the
Intermediate level or higher.
FEI Requirements Federation Requirements
CCI3*-L
2 CCI3*-S and (1 CCI2*-L
or 1 CCI3*-S)
2 Intermediate or higher (MER)
4.1.6.2 “D” CATEGORIZED RIDERS
Having met the minimum eligibility requirements (MER) of the FEI as a combination,
both the competitor and the horse, though not necessarily as a combination, must have
achieved 2 MERs at the Intermediate level or higher.
FEI Requirements Federation Requirements
CCI3*-L
1 CCI2*-L or
1 CCI3*-S
2 Intermediate or higher
(MER)
APPENDIX 3 - PARTICIPATION IN HORSE TRIALS
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING
85
4.1.7.1 UNCATEGORIZED RIDERS
CCI4*-L Having met the minimum eligibility requirements (MER) of the FEI, both the
competitor and the horse, though not necessarily as a combination, must have achieved one
MER at the Advanced level or higher.
FEI Requirements Federation Requirements
CCI4*-L
2 CCI3*-L +
1 CCI4*-S or 1 CCI3* -L
and 2 CCI4*-S
1 Advanced HT or higher (MER)
4.1.8 CCI5*-L
4.1.8.1 UNCATEGORIZED OR “D” OR “C” RIDERS
Both the competitor and the horse must have met the minimum eligibility requirements
(MER) of the FEI.
Rider Category FEI Requirements
Federation
Requirements
CCI5*-L C-D
2 CCI4*-L +
3 CCI4*-S
The competitor and
horse must have met
the minimum
eligibility requirements
(MER) of the FEI
4.1.8.2 CATEGORIZED RIDERS
Both the competitor and the horse must have met the minimum eligibility requirements
(MER) of the FEI.
Rider Category FEI Requirements
Federation
Requirements
CCI5*-L B
1 CCI4*-L +
3 CCI4*
The competitor and
horse must have met
the minimum eligibility
requirments (MER) of
the FEI
4.2 CATEGORIZED RIDERS
Listed below are the USEF requirements to compete in an FEI Competition. Additionally, all
horses and riders must meet the minimum eligibility requirements (MER) published by the
FEI. When multiple Minimum Eligibility Requirements are required, one of the Minimum
Eligibility Requirements can be achieved incurring 20 penalties at the obstacles of the
Cross Country Test. All USEF requirements do not need to be achieved as a combination.
At the CCI1* level and above, at least one Qualifying Result must be obtained in the twelve-
APPENDIX 3 - PARTICIPATION IN HORSE TRIALS
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING86
month period prior to the competition. e.g. a horse and/or rider who have achieved a QR at
a CCI4* level of competition and who have not competed for over twelve months must first
achieve a QR at the next lowest height level.
4.2.1 CCI1*. There are no requirements for horses ridden by categorized riders at this level.
4.2.2 CCI2*-S There are no requirements for horses ridden by categorized riders at this
level.
4.2.3 CCI3*-S The horse must have achieved 3 MERs at the Preliminary level or higher
plus an additional MER at the Preliminary level or higher with no more than 20 Jumping
Penalties at obstacles on the Cross Country test.
Rider Category Federation Requirements
CCI3*-S A-B-C -D
3 Preliminary or higher (MER) +
1 Preliminary or higher (MER) with no
more than 20 Jumping Penalties at ob-
stacles on the Cross Country test.
4.2.4 CCI4*-S All “C” & “D” categorized riders must use the eligibility requirements for
uncategorized riders. The Horse must have achieved 2 MERs at the Intermediate level or
higher.
Rider Category FEI Requirements
Federation
Requirements
CCI4*-S A-B 1 CCI3*
2 Intermediate or
higher (MER)
4.2.5 CCI2*-L The horse must have achieved 3 MERs at the Preliminary level or higher
plus an additional MER at the Preliminary level or higher with no more than 20 Jumping
Penalties at obstacles on the Cross Country test.
Rider Category FEI Requirements
Federation
Requirements
CCI2*-L A-B-C-D 3 Preliminary or
higher (MER) +
1 Preliminary or
higher (MER) with
no more than 20
Jumping Penalties
at obstacles on the
Cross Country test.
APPENDIX 3 - PARTICIPATION IN HORSE TRIALS
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 87
4.2.6 CCI3*-L All “D” categorized riders must meet the eligibility requirements set forth in
Section 4.1.5.2 above. For “A, B & C” categorized riders, the horse must have achieved 2
MERs at the Intermediate level or higher
Rider Category FEI Requirements
Federation
Requirements
CCI3*-L A-B-C (1 CCI2*-L or 1
CCI3*-S) (Horse
Only)
2 Intermediate or
higher (MER)
4.2.7 CCI4*-L All “C & D” categorized riders must use the eligibility requirements for
uncategorized riders. The horse must have achieved 1 MER with no more than 20 Jumping
Penalties at obstacles on the Cross Country test at a CCI4*-S or higher.
Rider Category FEI Requirements
Federation
Requirements
CCI4*-L A-B
1 CCI3*-L (Horse
Only)
1 CCI4*-S or higher
with no more than
20 Jumping
Penalties at
obstacles on the
Cross Country test.
4.2.8 CCI5*-L Both the competitor and the horse, as a combination must have met the
minimum eligibility requirements of the FEI.
Rider Category FEI Requirements
Federation
Requirements
CCI5*-L A (with Horses
which have not
achieved a MER at
CCI5*-L)
1 CCI4*-L
(as a combination)
The competitor and
horse must have
met the minimum
eligibility require-
ments (MER) of
the FEI
1 Advanced Horse
Trial or higher
CCI5*-L A (with horses
which have achieved
a MER at a CCI5*-L)
*2 CCI4*-S
(as a combination)
*The competitor
and horse must
have met the
minimum eligibilty
requirements (MR)
of the FEI
*1 Advanced
Horse Trial or higher
APPENDIX 3 - PARTICIPATION IN HORSE TRIALS
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING88
APPENDIX 4 - EVENTING—PERMITTED SADDLERY FOR DRESSAGE
PERMITTED NOSEBANDS:
SEE ANNEX 1 ON THE FEDERATION WEBSITE FOR
APPROVED BITS FOR NATIONAL COMPETITIONS
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 89
APPENDIX 4 - EVENTING—PERMITTED SADDLERY FOR DRESSAGE
PERMITTED NOSEBANDS:
Stotztem
(combined noseband - no throught lash)
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING90
APPENDIX 5 - EVENTING - DRESSAGE ARENAS
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 91
APPENDIX 6 - EVENTING - CROSS-COUNTRY
Obstacles with several elements:
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING92
APPENDIX 7 - EVENTING - DIAGRAMS OF FAULTS AT CROSS-COUNTRY OBSTACLES
DIAGRAMS OF CROSS-COUNTRY OBSTACLES AND FAULTS:
The following Diagrams are non-exhaustive examples for reference.
The wording of the respective rules will prevail.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 93
APPENDIX 7 - EVENTING - DIAGRAMS OF FAULTS AT CROSS-COUNTRY OBSTACLES
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING94
APPENDIX 7 - EVENTING - DIAGRAMS OF FAULTS AT CROSS-COUNTRY OBSTACLES
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 95
APPENDIX 7 - EVENTING - DIAGRAMS OF FAULTS AT CROSS-COUNTRY OBSTACLES
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING96
APPENDIX 7 - EVENTING - DIAGRAMS OF FAULTS AT CROSS-COUNTRY OBSTACLES
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 97
APPENDIX 7 - EVENTING - DIAGRAMS OF FAULTS AT CROSS-COUNTRY OBSTACLES
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING98
APPENDIX 7 - EVENTING - DIAGRAMS OF FAULTS AT CROSS-COUNTRY OBSTACLES
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 99
APPENDIX 7 - EVENTING - DIAGRAMS OF FAULTS AT CROSS-COUNTRY OBSTACLES
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING100
APPENDIX 7 - EVENTING - DIAGRAMS OF FAULTS AT CROSS-COUNTRY OBSTACLES
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 101
Notes
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING102
APPENDIX 8 - SPECIFICATIONS FOR THREE-DAY EVENTS
1. Objective- Three-Day Events provide experience for competitors and horses in the four-
phase cross-country test.
2. Participation-A horse may be entered in a Three Day Event without having fulfilled the
qualifications noted in Appendix 3 provided the qualifications have been fulfilled by the
closing date for entries.
3. Tables of Speeds, Times, Distances and Jumping Efforts -
4. Dimensions—For cross-country and jumping obstacles - see Appendix 2. The height of
the fixed part of steeplechase obstacles shall not exceed 1 meter (3’3”).
TRAINING MODIFIED CCN2*
PRELIMINARY
DRESSAGE
USEF Eventing
Tests
Training 3D - Standard Modified 3D test to be
written and approved
Preliminary 3D -
Standard
FEI Two-Star - Standard
Phase A:
Distance 2200-3520m 2640-3960m 3520-4400m
Speed 220 mpm 220 mpm 220 mpm
Time 10-16 minutes 12-18 minutes 16-20 minutes
Phase B:
Distance 1250-1560m 1650-1925m 1710-2240m
Speed 500-520 mpm 550 mpm 570-640 mpm
Time Fault 600 mpm N/A N/A
Time 2.5 or 3 minutes 3 or 3.5 minutes 3 or 3.5 minutes
Jumping Efforts 4-6 5-7 5-7
Maximum Brush
Height
3’11” 4’1” 4’3”
Phase C:
Distance 2400-5500m 2800-6160m 3200-6600m
Speed 160 or 220 mpm 160 or 220 mpm 160 or 220 mpm
Time 15-25 minutes 18-28 minutes 20-30 minutes
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 103
TRAINING MODIFIED CCN2*
PRELIMINARY
Phase D:
Distance 2250-3150m @ 450
mpm
or 2350-3290m @ 470
mpm
2695-3675m 3120-4160m
Speed 450 mpm or 470 mpm 490 mpm 520 mpm
Speed Fault 520 mpm N/A N/A
Time 5-7 minutes 5.5-7.5 minutes 6-8 minutes
Jumping Efforts 20-28
No more than one effort
per commenced 120m @
470 mpm. No more than
one effort per com-
menced 110m @ 450
mpm.
24-30
No more than one effort
per commenced 130m.
24-32
No more than one effort
per commenced 130m.
XC Heights and
Spreads
Same as H.T. level. Refer
to Appendix 2.
Same as H.T. level. Refer
to Appendix 2.
Same as H.T. level. Refer
to Appendix 2.
Show Jumping:
Distance 600m 600m 600m
Speed 325 mpm 325 mpm 350 mpm
Jumping Efforts 10-12 10-13 11-13
Height 1.0m (3’3”) 1.05 (3’5”) 1.10 (3’7”)
Overall Spread
of Oxers
1.20m (3’11”) 1.25m (4’1”) 1.30m (4’3”)
Overall Spread
of Triple
Bars
1.40m (4’7”) 1.45m (4’9”) 1.50m (4’11”)
APPENDIX 8 - SPECIFICATIONS FOR THREE-DAY EVENTS
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING104
APPENDIX 9 - CONVERSION TABLES
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 105
Notes
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING106
ANNEX 1 - BITS, SADDLERY, AND EQUIPMENT
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 107
ANNEX 1 - BITS, SADDLERY, AND EQUIPMENT
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING108
ANNEX 1 - BITS, SADDLERY, AND EQUIPMENT
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 109
ANNEX 1 - BITS, SADDLERY, AND EQUIPMENT
*Photos and illustrations courtesy of the FEI
1. Action of Bits
a. Snaffle bits work on the corners, tongue and bars of the mouth depending on their shape
and the rein effect produced by the Athlete
b. Single joined bits may also work on the roof of the mouth if not fitted and used correctly.
c. Straight bar snaffles cause more tongue pressure
d. Double jointed snaffles conform to the shape of the mouth and tongue creating more
event pressure
e. Rounded or moving centerpieces encourage movement of the tongue and salivation
f. Curved mouthpieces with joints and Mullen mouth bits conform to the shape of the
tongue and mouth.
Cheek Pieces
a. Full cheek, egg butt and D ring snaffles are more stable and also work on the sides of
the mouth
b. Loose ring snaffles have a more moveable mouthpiece to encourage mouthing of the
bit and salivation
c. Hanging cheek snaffles have a slight leverage action and work more on the corners of
the mouth and poll.
2. Material:
a. Durable enough to be safe
b. Must keep smooth and solid surface, not to be altered by the chewing of the horse in
order to prevent horse from injuries
c. Not health-damaging
d. Snaffles: can be made of metal, flexible rubber or synthetic, or plastic or leather material
e. Bridoon and curb: must be made of metal and/or rigid plastic and may be covered with
rubber/latex.
3. Permitted Snafes (see diagrams)
a. May have one or two joints
b. May be double-jointed with rounded or rotating mouthpiece allowing for better fit
and comfort.
c. May have a slightly curved port, allowing more room for the tongue. The maximum
height is 30mm from the lower part of the side of the tongue to the highest point of the
deviation.
d. Wavy bits are allowed.
e. A bushing or coupling is permitted as the center link and must be solid with no moveable
parts other than a roller.
f. The center link must be smooth and rounded
g. The diameter of the mouthpiece must be a minimum of 10mm at the rings or cheeks.
4. Illegal Bits
a. Any single or double jointed cable bits (may cause pinching of the tongue or cheeks)
b. Bits which place mechanical restraint on tongue (large immovable center link causes
excessive pressure on tongue).
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING110
ANNEX 3 - EVENTING SHOWCASES AND ARENA EVENTING
Purpose:To promote the sport of Eventing in a different environment and take it to a new
and diverse audience.
Note: Competitions must be licensed per USEF Rules for Competition Licensing as they
pertain to Eventing competitions.
SPECIFICATIONS FOR EVENTING SHOWCASES AND ARENA EVENTING DIMENSIONS
Cross-Country Fences: as per USEF Rules for Eventing at each level
Show Jumping Fences: as per USEF Rules for Eventing at each level
Note: For Eventing Showcases, it is at the Organizer’s discretion whether whips may be
carried for Dressage.
EVENTING SHOWCASES (OUTDOORS ONLY)
Showcase Events may consist of:
- 3 phases or
- 2 phases including Dressage and Cross-Country or Show Jumping & Cross Country
MINIMUM ELIGIBILTY REQUIREMENTS – EVENTING SHOWCASES: All Athletes and
Horses, though not necessarily as a combination, must be qualified per USEF Eventing
Rules (Appendix 3) to compete in a CCI-L of the same height level e.g. Preliminary Eventing
Showcase: 3 Preliminary or higher (MER) plus 1 Preliminary or higher (MER) with not
more than 20 Jumping Penalties at obstacles on the Cross-Country Course. In all cases
one MER must be obtained in the twelve month period prior to the competition. USEF MER
Requirements apply to all U.S. and foreign athletes.
PRELIMINARY INTERMEDIATE ADVANCED
Dressage
USEF Eventing
Dressage Tests
Preliminary A or B
Intermediate A or B
or C
Advanced A or B,
Freestyle which must
include required move-
ments from Advanced
tests or an Advanced, or
4* or 5* test approved
by the Eventing Sport
Committee.
Show Jumping
1.10m 1.15m 1.25m after XC
1.30m after XC
Cross-Country
Fixed Height 1.10m 1.15m 1.20m
Distances 750-1250m 1000-1750m 1500-2500m
Efforts 30-50 mpe 50-80 mpe 80-100 mpe
Speeds 420-470 mpm 450-500 mpm 500-535 mpm
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING
ANNEX 3 - EVENTING SHOWCASES AND ARENA EVENTING
ARENA EVENTING
Arena Eventing competitions can include two rounds. It is suggested that the first round
have an optimum time and the second, for all combinations with clear rounds or a number
to be determined by the Organizer e.g. top 25% or top 10 from the first round.
Arena Eventing courses must be comprised of a minimum of 50% Cross Country fences. It
is suggested that the course starts and finishes with two or three Show Jumping obstacles.
Additional Show Jumping obstacles may be added in the middle section of the course.
Details regarding the competition format must be included in the prize list.
MINIMUM ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS – ARENA EVENTING
Eventing competitors: Both Athlete and Horse, though not necessarily as a combination,
must have obtained two MERs at the applicable level in the twelve-month period prior to
the competition.
Jumping Competitors: Both Athlete and Horse, though not necessarily as a combination,
must have completed two Jumper classes with no more than 4 jumping faults, 15cm above
the fixed height of Cross Country jumps for the applicable division (or higher) in the six
month period prior to the competition in question e.g.
Intermediate Eventing Competition: a 1.30 Jumper Class with no more than 4 Jumping
faults.
Arena Eventing Scoring
Scoring of knock downs and time per USEF Eventing Show Jumping rules.
PRELIMINARY INTERMEDIATE ADVANCED
(Indoors, Outdoors or
Indoors/Outdoors)
Cross-Country
Fixed Height 1.10m 1.15m 1.20m
Distances 750-1000m 750-1250m 1000-2000m
Efforts (Minimum) 30-50 mpe 40-60 mpe 50-75 mpe
Speeds 375-425 mpm 400-475 mpm 450-550 mpm
It is at the discretion of the Course Designer, in consultation with the Technical
Delegate, to design to the specications appropriate for the venue.
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING112
ANNEX 3 - EVENTING SHOWCASES AND ARENA EVENTING
Showcases PRELIMINARY INTERMEDIATE ADVANCED
Ground Jury President minimum
USEF “R” Eventing
or equivalent foreign
license with a Guest
Card
President USEF “S”
Eventing or equiva-
lent foreign license
with a Guest Card
President USEF “S”
Eventing or equiva-
lent foreign license
with a Guest Card
Additional Judges
(Optional)
Dressage: Judge
must be either “R”
Eventing or “r”
Dressage Judge
Jumping: Must be
selected from the
current roster of
Eventing, Jumping
or Eventing Techni-
cal Delegates
Dressage: Judge
must be either “S”
Eventing or “R”
Dressage Judge
Jumping: Must be
selected from the
current roster of
Eventing, Jumping
or Eventing Techni-
cal Delegates
Dressage: Judge
must be either
“S” Eventing or “R”
Dressage Judge
Jumping: Must be
selected from the
current roster of
Eventing, Jumping
or Eventing Techni-
cal Delegates
Technical Delegate Minimum USEF “R” USEF “S” USEF “S”
Course Designer Minimum USEF
“R” Eventing CD or
equivalent foreign
license
USEF “S” Eventing
CD or equivalent
foreign license
USEF “S” Eventing
CD or equivalent
foreign license
SJ Course Designer N/A EVJCD or SJCD EVJCD or SJCD
Additional
Requirements
Either President or
TD must be USEF
“S” Eventing or “S”
Technical Delegate
Arena Eventing PRELIMINARY INTERMEDIATE ADVANCED
Technical Delegate Minimum USEF “R” USEF “S” USEF “S”
Course Designer Minimum USEF
“R” Eventing CD or
equivalent foreign
license
USEF “S” Eventing
CD or equivalent
foreign license
USEF “S” Eventing
CD or equivalent
foreign license
The competition will be judged by:
• Technical Delegate or Licensed Jumper Judge.
• A Judge with a FEI Eventing or Jumper License
• A judge with a USEF Eventing or Jumper License
Officials permitted for Eventing Showcases and Arena Eventing
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 113
ANNEX 5 - USEF/USEA EVENTING COMPETITION STANDARDS
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ANNEX 5 - USEF/USEA EVENTING COMPETITION STANDARDS
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 115
ANNEX 5 - USEF/USEA EVENTING COMPETITION STANDARDS
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING116
ANNEX 5 - USEF/USEA EVENTING COMPETITION STANDARDS
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 117
Notes
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Notes
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING 119
Notes
US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING120
Notes
2023 US EQUESTRIAN RULES FOR EVENTING
