SportsDirect.com Takes a Look at the Badminton Horse Trials

NOTTINGHAM, England, April 30, 2014 /PRNewswire/ --

On the 7^th May this year's Badminton Horse Trials begin, an event in which riders and their horses take part in three phases of the competition including cross country, dressage and show jumping. The event begins on Wednesday 7^th May with the first inspection, followed by two days of dressage, a cross country test and finishing on the final day with the jumping test.

The first inspection involves all horses being checked over by a vet to ensure they are fit and healthy enough to take part. The first phase of the competition is the dressage, which takes place over two days. Dressage involves a test of 26 movements each worth a maximum of 10 marks. Additional marks are also awarded for submission, rider, paces and impulsion bringing the top score to 300. Penalties can also be added if movements are not performed correctly.

The second phase of the competition is the cross country test, the most physically demanding part of the event. There are around 45 jumps to be made throughout the test and there is a set time limit in which to complete each jump. Failure to do so in the set time will result in a penalty.

After the second phase horses are taken for a final inspection to ensure they are still fit and healthy after the cross country test has been completed. Once they have passed the inspection they are then able to complete the final phase of the event: show jumping. Horses and riders must demonstrate speed, accuracy and agility in this test by completing a course of show jumps. Jumps can be up to 1.30m high and 2.30m wide. This test requires fitness from both the horse and rider and penalties can be added if fences are knocked down.

At the end of the event there will be a presentation of prizes to the winners. The whole event takes place over 5 days and tickets can be purchased separately for each day, or one ticket for the whole event.

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SOURCE SportsDirect.com