Sports Activities

Eventing

Eventing is an Olympic discipline that comprises three distinct phases: dressage, cross country, and showjumping.

To qualify for a ranking, both horse and rider must successfully complete all three phases.

Dressage Phase

The dressage phase is the first part of eventing. It assesses the horse’s obedience and the rider’s control in executing a prescribed sequence of movements within a designated arena.

Unlike traditional dressage scoring, penalties are subtracted from a maximum score, with lower penalties indicating a higher ranking.

Cross Country Phase

Typically the second phase, cross country involves navigating a challenging outdoor course of solid fences at a fast canter or gallop.

The objective is to complete the course cleanly within a specified time frame. Penalties are incurred for refusals or run-outs at fences, monitored by fence stewards stationed along the course.

Showjumping Phase

The final phase of eventing, showjumping tests the horse and rider’s precision and agility over a series of fences in an arena setting.

The goal is to clear the jumps without incurring penalties, with faults for knocked-down rails or refusals.

What Opportunities Do I Have?

Eventing presents an opportunity for riders to showcase their courage, fitness, and riding skills across multiple disciplines. Pony Club® members can participate in eventing competitions at local, regional, national, and international levels.

This multifaceted sport fosters a strong partnership between horse and rider, emphasising both flatwork and jumping abilities. Many successful eventing athletes, including Olympic gold medalists, began their careers in Pony Club®, highlighting the sport’s developmental role in producing top-tier equestrians.

PCA Competitions & Events

Inter-Pacific Exchange

2025 National Championships

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Ready To Become a Member?

Start by contacting your chosen Pony Club or Accredited Riding Centre to express your interest.

Once you’ve agreed on next steps, return to the PCA website and create a profile on our JustGo membership portal. From there, select your club or centre, request to join, and once approved, select and purchase your membership.

Ready to buy your membership?

Register First.

Make sure you have registered with your local club or accredited riding centre on JustGo first, as your membership needs to be linked and approved by your club/centre.