Eventing: A Beginner's Guide

The Complete Equestrian Competition (CCE) is a set of three events. These events include dressing, cross-country, and show jumping. It is an important equestrian discipline. It is also known as the “modern pentathlon.” We will see this at the Paris Olympic Games in 2024. At first, CCE may seem difficult. But this guide will teach you the basics of this beautiful adventure.

Main Lessons to Remember

• The Complete Equestrian Competition is an Olympic discipline combining three distinct events.
• The three disciplines of CCE are dressing, cross-country, and show jumping.
• CCE is a high-level event that requires extensive training and preparation.
• The Club and Pony events offer beginners a gradual introduction to this exciting discipline.
• With practice and determination, it is possible to progress to the most prestigious CCE events.

What is the complete equestrian competition?

The complete equestrian competition is a major equestrian competition. It excites fans of equestrian sports. This complex challenge consists of three events where riders and horses work closely together.

The three disciplines of the complete competition

Each event of the complete competition has its own challenge. They are:

• The dressing, the first part, requires riders to show how they guide their horse precisely and gracefully.
• The cross-country tests coordination and strength. Riders and horses together overcome various natural obstacles within a limited time.
• The show jumping is a test of speed and dexterity. Riders guide their horse through a series of obstacles.

An Olympic event

The complete equestrian competition is part of equestrian sports at the Olympic Games. It is a globally recognized discipline, alongside dressing and show jumping. In 2024, the Paris Games will highlight this major event.

Complete equestrian competition: Club events

The complete equestrian competition, also known as CCE, is an exciting sport for horse enthusiasts. More and more beginners are getting interested in it. Especially through the Club events, a good introduction to this sport.

Participation requirements for Club events

For the Club competition of CCE, one must be at least Gallop 2. And have a Club license. Horses and ponies, aged at least 4 years (5 for Elite Club), can participate.

Course standards in Club events

• The cross courses range from 600 to 1800 meters and are up to 90 cm high.
• The show jumping courses have a maximum of 10 obstacles, reaching 90 cm high.

For beginners in CCE, the Club events offer an ideal introduction. It is a great way to start in this sport. They can train and progress while discovering CCE.

Pony events

The pony complete competition is very popular in France. It attracts many junior riders. These events are aimed at young people under 18 years old with a license. They give them the chance to compete against each other in competition conditions.

Competing ponies must be at least 4 years old. They cannot measure more than 1.48m in height (1.49m if shod). The cross courses range from 600 to 1400 meters. Their height does not exceed 80 cm. The show jumping courses have up to 10 obstacles. The maximum height is 95 cm.

The pony CCE events help junior riders improve their skills. They learn technique, how to control a horse, and gain confidence. Participating in these events is a very enriching sporting experience.

Some do it for fun, others to be the best in competition. In any case, the pony complete competition is an excellent way to introduce young people to Olympic equestrianism.

Complete equestrian competition at the Amateur level

The Amateur complete competition is a significant challenge. It attracts experienced riders. These riders must have Gallop 7 and an Amateur license. They participate in events combining dressing, cross, and show jumping.

Course standards in Amateur events

For Amateur events, ponies and horses aged 4 years are eligible (5 years for levels 3 and 2, 6 years for levels 1 and Elite). The cross courses measure between 1400 and 3400 meters. They peak at 115 cm. The show jumps have up to 12 obstacles of 115 cm. Sometimes, a river crosses them.

Those who enjoy technical and physical challenges will find their happiness. Whether novice or expert, the Amateur complete competition is an opportunity to grow. It allows improvement in this demanding discipline.

The highest level: Pro events

The Pro events are the most difficult of the complete competition. Only the best riders can participate. They compete to represent France at the Olympic and World Games. To do this, they must have Gallop 7 and a Pro license.

Ponies and horses aged 5 years and older can be entered. The cross circuits measure from 2000 to 4200 meters. They must not exceed 120 cm in height. The show jumps include up to 12 obstacles up to 115 cm high with a river.

Course standards in Pro events

Participants in the Pro events must face significant challenges. These obstacles and jumps test their skills. Here’s what they must overcome:

• Cross: 2000 to 4200 meters, with a maximum height of 120 cm
• Show jumping: up to 12 obstacles, maximum height of 115 cm, with a river

Only the most talented gain access to the French team through these events. They must be very strong, both mentally and physically. It is a great pride to represent France all over the world.

Conclusion

The complete equestrian competition combines dressing, cross, and show jumping. It is suitable for every rider, from beginner to expert. Participating in this competition is a unique adventure.

This sport can be practiced regardless of our level: in Club, Pony, Amateur or Pro. Thanks to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, this discipline will be even more exciting.

Participating in the complete competition means experiencing unforgettable moments. You will develop your equestrian skills while taking part in challenging challenges. The atmosphere of competition and friendship always prevails.