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DRESSAGE

Dressage is a competitive equestrian sport where horse and rider work together to perform a series of prearranged movements from memory.

It’s often described as the pinnacle of horse training, with the goal of enhancing the horse’s natural athleticism and willingness to perform through a systematic training approach in this discipline.

Competitions are held at various levels, with each level designed to progressively develop the horse’s skills and potential as a riding horse.

Regulating Body: South African Dressage (SAD)
Website: www.dressagesa.com

EVENTING

Eventing, also known as Horse Trials, is a multi-discipline sport that tests the versatility, endurance, and skill of both horse and rider.

Originating from military requirements, Eventing includes three distinct phases: Dressage, Cross Country, and Show Jumping. Each phase challenges different aspects of the horse’s training, such as obedience, stamina, and agility.

The ultimate goal is to have the fewest combined penalties across all phases, making it an exciting and comprehensive test of equestrian ability.

Regulating Body: South African Eventing (SAE)
Website: www.eventingsa.co.za

SHOW JUMPING

Show Jumping is one of the most popular equestrian sports, involving riders guiding their horses over a course of obstacles that test their precision and agility. The obstacles, while appearing solid, are designed to be easily knocked down, which incurs penalties. The goal is to complete the course without faults and, in the case of a tie, to jump part of the course again, with the obstacles raised and the clock ticking. The winner is the rider who clears the course the fastest without errors.

This discipline is open to riders of all ages and skill levels, where men and women compete equally.

Regulating Body: South African Show Jumping (SASJ)
Website: www.sashowjumping.co.za

SHOWING

Showing is a discipline dedicated to presenting the most exemplary horse within a specific type or breed. Competitors must be adept at training and presenting their horse to highlight its conformation, movement, ability, and manners in the show ring. Showing provides riders with a strong foundation in horsemanship and ring craft, and many top riders in other disciplines began their careers in this field. The emphasis is on showcasing the horse in the best possible light, with both horse and rider working in harmony to achieve this goal.

Regulating Body: South African Showing Association (SASA)
Website: www.showingsa.co.za

EQUITATION

Equitation focuses on the art and practice of horse riding, emphasizing the rider’s technique and effectiveness. Introduced in South Africa in 1970, the aim of Equitation is to promote high standards of horsemanship by educating riders on correct riding techniques. Riders are judged on their position, control, and ability to effectively guide the horse, both on the ground and over fences. Good equitation not only improves the rider’s skills but also enhances the horse’s performance.

Regulating Body: SA Equitation Association
Website: www.equitationsa.co.za