know where each movement is to be
performed. Each test takes approx. 7 ½
minutes. The letters H, C, B above refer
to the position of each judge, ie that
they are sitting close to that particular
letter that marks a spot around the
dressage arena.
Phase 2. Cross Country (Saturday)
The Cross Country Test is the most
physically demanding and exciting
phase of the competition. There are
about 45 “Jumping Efforts” on the
course. Penalty marks are added at the
rate of 0.4 for every second exceeding
the optimum time which is deliberately
difficult to achieve. A time limit of
twice the optimum time is also
imposed. Exceeding this time limit
carries automatic elimination. Penalty
points accrued during the cross country
test are designed to have the greatest
influence on the overall competition. It
must be completed at an average speed
of 570 metres per minute as laid down
in the Rules. This calculated with the
length of the course provides the
optimum time. Penalty marks are
added for each second over the
optimum time.
Phase 3: Jumping Test (Sunday)
After the physical demands of cross
country day, horses and riders must
then demonstrate speed, accuracy and
agility in the jumping test by
completing a course of show jumps up
to 1.30m high and as wide as 2.30m.
This requires both horse and rider to
be extremely fit and calm. Many events
are won and lost on the final day when
the pressure is on in front of the 16,000
or so spectators filling the arena.
Further penalties can be picked up for
knocking down the delicately balanced
fences or not completing within the
optimum time. SATURDAY 25
SUNDAY 12 FRIDAY 31
Spanish Grand Prix, Barcelona The Oaks, Epsom
Berlin
THURSDAY 16 – SUNDAY 19
US PGA Championship, Bethpage, New
York
THURSDAY 30 – JUNE 2
US Women's Open, South Carolina
SUNDAY 26
Monaco Grand Prix, Monaco
Formula E
SATURDAY 11 SUNDAY 26 – JUNE 9
Monaco French Open, Paris
36