Rolex Equestrian Commercial

The Rolex is one of the biggest Combined Training events so I thought I would put up this clip of the commercial. The Rolex will be April 27 for 2008.

To Be An Equestrian

I love this video because it captures all the elements it takes to succeed in any sport. It also give good examples of all three events of combined training (there are a few clips that are not combined training at the beginning, but it is still cool). Combined training is like a triathlon for horses. Dressage demonstrates the accuracy and the ability of the rider to have complete control while appearing to use little effort to complete the pattern. Cross-Country jumping shows the horse"s stamina. This event can be several miles long with multiple fixed obstacle to jump over.... including water, fences, and brush. The stadium jumping shows the ability of the horse to make tight turns and clear jumps at high speeds.
Eventing is so much fun, but it requires hard work and determination. this is why it is an Olympic sport.

Three Days on the Road to Glory!

Combined Training, also know as Eventing is a amazing sport to watch.  The three events are stadium jumping, cross country jumping and dressage.

Stadium jumping show the ability of the horse and rider to maneuver though a number of jumps without knocking down any polls.  If they make it to the second round it is based on speed and accuracy.  

Cross country jumping challenges the horse's endurance.  The course can be several miles long with 20 or more solid obstacles.  This is the phase of eventing that has a bad reputation for being dangerous...and yes it is dangerous if the horse and rider compete at a level higher then they are ready for or if the horse is not listening to the rider.

The third phase is Dressage is the most elegant part.  It judged on how well the horse and rider work together.  The horse must complete a series of movements with accuracy.  The horse must listen to the rider completely and to get the image of no effort from the rider.  

* photos from www.jumpswest.com, www.citrusoaksfarm.com, and www.localriding.com/dressage-training-tips.html