In a showjumping competition, horse and rider negotiate a twisting course with fifteen to twenty fences and walls, each up to six feet high. Together, they must leap over each obstacle at the proper speed, angle and height. Whenever a horse knocks down a rail, balks or falls, penalty points, referred to as “faults,” are accrued. The horse and rider with the fewest faults and fastest time are declared the winner. In the event of a tie, a jump-off on a reconfigured course is held to determine the winner.

Preparing for the competition
Prior to an event, each rider will walk the course to study it. A rider walks the line he or she intends to ride, pacing it off according to the length of the horse’s stride. Along the way, the rider will note the different types of fences, distances between them, the ground in front of them (called “footing”), and potential problem areas. He or she will also look for any points where a “tighter line” (riding closer to an obstacle) can shave time.

Then, about 20 minutes prior to competing, the rider will warm up the horse in the “schooling area.” The warm-up includes working the horse at a walk, trot and canter, trotting over low fences, and gradually increasing fence heights to simulate course conditions.

How the lineup is determined
The starting order is determined by a drawing, which gives each rider an equal chance of attaining a favorable position. Usually, it’s preferable for riders to go near the end, so they may enjoy the advantage of seeing how riders before them complete the course.