Showjumping

Showjumping requires athleticism, control and accuracy from both horse and rider over a set course of knockable fences.

These  verticals, spreads, and double and triple combinations, with a variety of turns and changes of direction. The aim is to jump cleanly over the set course without knocking down the fences, refusing or running out.  For many classes, this must be achieved within an allotted time to go through to the next round, known as the ‘jump-off’. The jump-off is against the clock over a shortened course and determines the winner – the combination with the fastest time and the least amount of faults wins.

Time faults are accrued if you exceed the time allowed, along with jumping faults being awarded for any knock-downs or refusals. The height of the fences varies depending on the level you wish to compete at – at affiliated level this can range from 70cm to over 1.60m.

British Showjumping is the governing body in the UK and they formulate the rules and codes of practice under which all affiliated competitions are held. British Showjumping manage more than 3,000 shows each year providing in excess of 4,350 days of showjumping for members riding registered horses and ponies. They provide classes to cater for all levels of ability, whether you simply want to compete occasionally at weekends over a 70cm course or aim eventually for top class competitions at the Royal International Horse Show, Horse of the Year Show or Olympia.