Also known as the Three-Day Event, Horse Trials, or Combined Training.
Eventing is often described as the triathlon of equestrian sport. It tests the versatility, courage, and partnership of horse and rider across three distinct phases: dressage, cross-country, and show jumping. Together, these phases evaluate obedience, athleticism, endurance, and precision.
The dressage phase demonstrates the horse’s suppleness, rhythm, and obedience on the flat. The cross-country phase challenges the pair’s bravery, stamina, and control as they jump over solid, natural-type obstacles such as logs, ditches, banks, and water complexes—all while aiming to finish within the optimum time. The final show-jumping phase tests carefulness and agility after the exertion of cross-country, ensuring the horse remains balanced and attentive.
Historically, eventing included an additional steeplechase phase that emphasized speed and endurance. This phase has been removed from modern international and Olympic formats to enhance safety and align with current FEI standards. Today, eventing remains one of the most complete tests of horsemanship, demanding not only technical skill but also deep understanding of conditioning, veterinary management, and training ethics.