AGAINST THE CLOCK

Probably the most famous of classes in a horse show. It enhances precision and speed. To win horse and rider have to complete their round with the lowest number of faults, usually none, and to cross the finishing line with the best time. “Speed and handiness” is a different version of it where the faults are changed into seconds and added to the total time.

TWO PHASES

This is a very lively competition for the judges. Horse and rider have to jump the first part of their round with no faults. If they do they have to face the second part of the course which is usually bigger and more difficult than the first one. The winner is the one who completes these two phases with the lowest number of faults and, in case of an ex-aequo, with the best time in the second part.

MIXED

This is a two rounds competition. Riders who have completed their first round with no faults (or with a minimum number of faults) jump a second course which is usually different from the first one. In case of an ex-aequo the winner is the pair with the best time.

NATIONS CUP

This is the most important class in the program of an Official International Show Jumping Competition. Only CSIOs can organize it. It is a team competition: each team has a minimum of three, usually four riders, representing their country. All the teams have to complete two identical rounds. The totals of the three best rounds of each team give the final result. In case of an ex-aequo, a jump-off against the time declares the winner (one rider for nation).

GRAND PRIX

This is the most important individual class in a show jumping competition. Riders try to complete their first round with no faults in order to enter the “selected group” that gain access to the second round, shorter but more difficult. In case of an ex-aequo, a jump-off against the time declares the winner.

PUISSANCE

This category enhances the physical power of horses. Competitors face a wall and a triple bar which are progressively increased and widened at every round. The winner is the horse who jumps the highest. This is a very spectacular class and it is probably one of the most appreciated by the audience.

SPEED AND HANDINESS

This is a special category based on speed and obedience. The course can be chosen by the rider. There can be natural obstacles such as ditches and it is judged on Table C.