THREE-DAY Event Clinic &
COMPETITIONHosted by Ruth Allum & Mark Nelson
AUGUST rd th 23 –26 2018 OAKHURST FARM Ashton, Ontario, Canada Credit: LibertyCredit: Shots Welcome!
Oakhurst Farm near Ashton, Ontario, is thrilled to be once again hosting Eastern Canada’s only Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition for Training, Pre-Training and Entry level riders from August 23rd – 26th, 2018. “Changes over the years to event formats mean that many of our riders may never have the chance to compete in a traditional three-day event,” says Ruth Allum, Oakhurst Farm’s coach and the organizer of the event. “Consequently, these riders could lose a very important opportunity to learn about the importance of true horsemanship. At Oakhurst, we are committed to the physical and mental well-being of our riders and their horses, so we are very pleased to provide the opportunity for up to 60 riders who are at the beginning of their Eventing careers to experience a traditional, long format event clinic.” A traditional long format event is different than the popular short format events because it includes a full endurance day. The day begins with roads and tracks, where horse and rider teams ride over distance at a slower measured pace to warm up for the speed portion – steeplechase, where riders ride at a fast gallop and jump obstacles. That is followed by another slower speed, roads and tracks to cool down before presentation to a veterinarian to ensure the horse is fit enough to proceed to the cross-country portion of the endurance day. “The full endurance day will help these riders learn how to condition their horses, to help prevent eliminations and injuries when they ride at higher levels,” says Ruth Allum. “Our event clinic format will ensure that riders receive guidance from top level clinicians at every stage.” Credit: LibertyCredit: Shots
2 Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm Credit: LibertyCredit: Shots Oakhurst Farm Eastern Ontario’s Premiere Event Facility Located on 250 acres at 8249 Fernbank Road, Oakhurst Farm provides every possible amenity that riders and horses require. • Outdoor three season sand ring • Four season heated indoor arena (156’ X 72’) • Stalls are with automatic water bowls (10’x12’) • Full day turnout, either in groups or individually • Individual tack cupboards • Extra storage space and blanket racks (2nd floor) • Wash stall with rubber mats and hot and cold water
Most exciting of all, Oakhurst Farm has cross-country courses at the Pre-Entry, Entry, Pre- Training, Training and Preliminary levels, with a smattering of Intermediate-level jumps as well. In total, there are over a hundred fences, spread across the 250 acres, with plenty of room to gallop: an excellent facility for getting a horse fit, for schooling a wide variety of jumps, or for having a great time. There is also a water complex and several combination jumps.
Oakhurst Farm maintains an all-weather galloping track of almost one kilometer in length, and trails provide easy access to the Trans-Canada Trail for extended galloping.
Oakhurst Farm will host two recognized Horse Trials in 2018 - one in July and one in September – where well over 100 riders from across Ontario and Quebec compete from Pre-Entry to the Preliminary level.
Oakhurst Farm also hosts a series of derby format shows which combine cross-country and show jumping fences. These competitions begin in the outdoor sand ring and extend onto the cross-country course.
Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm 3 Program Overview Please note that the schedule below is subject to change. For the official schedule, please refer to the handout in your rider package or the schedule posted at the Secretary’s hut. Thursday, August 23rd, 2018 • Arrival, check-in • Welcome • First Horse Inspection • Competitor Meeting • Welcome Reception Friday, August 24th, 2018 • Dressage Day • Steeplechase practice sessions • Competitor briefing and cross-country course walks ~ Media tent interviews with Elizabeth Hay – top 3 in each division Saturday, August 25th, 2018 • Endurance Day • Competitor briefing and show jumping course walks • Competitors’ party ~ Riders, their grooms and the ‘All Access Pass’ participants receive one party ticket each. ~ Additional tickets are available for purchase at the secretary’s office Sunday, August 26th, 2018 • Third Horse Inspection • Show Jump Day! • Presentation of awards and prizes Credit: LibertyCredit: Shots
4 Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm Ruth Allum
Ruth is the head coach and trainer at Oakhurst Farm. Ruth is married to Mark Nelson; together they operate Oakhurst Farm, helped by their two children, Eric (2001) and Tatum (2005).
As a coach, Ruth’s commitment is to the total physical and mental preparation of both the rider and the horse in the sport of Eventing. She is dedicated to coaching her more than 60 students at Oakhurst Farm.
Having competed herself at the Preliminary level, Ruth combines her real-life experiences as an Eventer with formal training as an Equestrian Canada certified High Performance Coach; Level 1-10 EC Rider Level Evaluator; Coach Mentor and Coach
Developer/Evaluator for new coaches. LibertyCredit: Shots
Nationally, Ruth is proud to have been elected as Chair of the Canadian Eventing Committee and named to the Equestrian Canada National Coaching Technical Committee representing Certified Equestrian Eventing Coaches at the national level. Ruth also continues to actively promote the sport of Eventing in Eastern Ontario by serving on the National Capital Horse Trials Association board.
During her more than 20 years as a coach, Ruth has coached horse and rider teams to the Provincial Championships, the North American Junior/Young Rider Championships, the Canadian Eventing National Talent Squad as well as to a place on the Canadian Eventing Team Long List. Whether her students are competing at the Pre-Entry or Advanced level, they still receive the benefit of Ruth’s careful attention to detail in riding, conditioning, and building a strong horse and rider team. In 2011, Ruth was honoured to receive an award from Equestrian Canada as the High- Performance Coach Candidate of
Credit: LibertyCredit: Shots the Year.
Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm 5 Mark Nelson
Mark has a well-rounded sense of the horse and rider partnership required to excel at every level of equine sport. With a varied equestrian background (Pony Club, 4H member, Arabian circuit, show jumping and finally Three-Day Eventing for the past 20 years), Mark has been involved in many different scenes within the equine world and has a very developed and balanced view of the equine community.
Aside from his competitive career as an international Eventer, Mark has earned many qualifications over his years in the equine world. Along with being a certified farrier, Mark is an Equestrian Canada Level 2 Technical Delegate and a Recognized Cross Country Course Designer. Working on the Ontario Horse Trials Association Board as a Director for several years, Mark was deeply involved in the North American Junior/ Young Rider program. From helping provide education and competition opportunities to young Ontario riders to organizing and preparing a team for the annual trip to the Championships, Mark remains an active supporter of the program and continues to advise the current organizers. In 2015, Mark acted as Chef d’Equipe for Team Ontario (Show Jump, Reining and Dressage) at the Canadian Inter-Provincial Equestrian Championships (CIEC) at Wesley Clover Parks. At the competition, Team Ontario won many awards and experienced their most successful competition to date.
Mark actively promotes Eventing in Canada and is the President and Competitions Chair for the Ontario Equestrian Board of Directors. As second term Ontario Equestrian President, Mark is working to create a more cohesive and inclusive atmosphere, representative of the needs of the provincial membership. By promoting coaching, long term athlete development and growing the grassroots of Canadian Equestrian sport, Mark is focused on growing our sport and helping more Canadians recognize their love for all things equine than ever before.
For the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto, Canada, Mark was honoured to be chosen as Supervisor of Eventing. Working with the Pan American Games Committee, Mark organized and ran all 3 phases of the first Pan Am Games Eventing competition in Toronto held July 16-19, 2015. Hailed as one of the most successful Games in Pan Am history, Mark worked to ensure that the experience for the international athletes, coaches, officials and spectators was world-class.
Mark experienced his first taste of international success riding the ex-racehorse, Power of 2 (Dino). The pair enjoyed a 4th place finish at the Advanced Horse Trials at Morven Park, and were Long Listed with the Canadian Eventing Team in 2006. Mark operates Oakhurst Farm with his wife, Ruth Allum, who is also his coach. Together they have two children, Eric (2001) and Tatum (2005).
6 Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm Joan Allum
Joan and her late husband, Bob Allum, opened their beautiful equestrian home to the public in 1994 and as part of the family owned business created Eastern Ontario’s premiere Eventing facility.
Oakhurst Farm’s annual Horse Trials are held up amongst the most well-organized events in Ontario. The credit for that goes to Joan. She serves as secretary for the Oakhurst Horse Trials, derby shows and dressage shows and is the secretary for this Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition.
Joan rode and was an active Ottawa Valley Hunt member with her equine partner “Marty” (Debonair) who was also the family’s first horse. Joan enjoyed driving Phil the mini for many years.
Judges, Clinicians and Officials
What makes this event unique is the team of high level clinicians who are joining Ruth Allum and Mark Nelson in the instruction of riders throughout the course of the Oakhurst Three-Day Event clinic and competition. We are thrilled and pleased to welcome the following clinicians/judges to
Credit: LibertyCredit: Shots our clinic:
10 Minute Box, Grooms Mentor: Anne-Marie Duarte O’Hanlon Eventing
Having been with O’Hanlon Eventing (OHE) full time since 2008, Anne-Marie is an invaluable member of the team and as head groom she takes world class care of all the horses. As an international level groom Anne-Marie has groomed for Selena O’Hanlon at many Rolex 3 Day events and Badminton as well the Pan Am and World Games. Anne-Marie is accomplished in her own right, as a graduate of the Canadian Pony Club with her full “A”, and currently competes at the Preliminary level with Morag
O’Hanlon and Selena’s homebred Rather Boldly. LibertyCredit: Shots
Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm 7 Guest Speaker: Claire Smith Author of the book: Falling into Now
The author’s early life was dedicated to horses and competitive events. Through her skill and commitment, she became an internationally recognized rider, and a member of Canada’s National Team. She was selected to compete at the Atlanta Olympics in 1996. The sophisticated competitor not only loves her horses, who are such a critical element in the sport, but combines equestrian skill with courage in competitive performance.
The author, in outlining the history developed in the book, demonstrates that the sport requires commitment, courage and is dangerous – an enormous and powerful animal guided by a skilled rider. The most challenging and dangerous is the three-day event combining dressage, cross-country and show jumping.
The story has a dedicated, experienced and thoroughly committed athlete confronting her worst fears. In a cross-country event in England in 1997, her horse summersaulted over an early jump, unseating its rider, the author, and resulting in horrendous injury which permanently changed her life.
When Claire reflects on her life Now in the opening chapter, she mentions that her right leg is in a brace. Readers are left wondering what happened with Why is she grateful to be able to walk only a few steps? The answer is gradually revealed over the course of the memoir as Claire writes about her equestrian life and the years following its sudden end on September 13, 1997. While she chronicles her past, her story weaves into and out of the Now.
Although Claire feels that she will never completely let go of the successes—or of the crushing disappointments—that accentuated her time in the equestrian world, this memoir is about so much more. It’s about being driven to pursue a goal. It’s about life- changing loss. It’s about arduous recovery. It’s about a life evolving into something completely unexpected.
Media Relations & Interview Coaching: Elizabeth Hay
Elizabeth Hay is a retired journalist. She worked for 27 years in radio with the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. During her time with CBC she created the successful provincial current affairs program Ontario Today, as well as working on network shows like As It Happens, The Current and Sunday Edition. Besides working on producing programming, Elizabeth worked closely with many young associate
8 Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm producers and reporters developing their on-air presence and helping them become better journalist and program hosts.
Elizabeth is excited to work with grassroots equestrians to help them better prepare for media and sponsor interviews. Journalism was Elizabeth’s career but horses have been her life long passion. In her teens and early 20s she showed hunters and jumpers in the Ottawa area. She continues to ride and now owns three Off The Track Thoroughbreds that she cares for on her small hobby farm outside of Carleton Place.
Official Vet: Dr. J.D. Adams, DVM Russell Equine Veterinary Service
Dr. Adams graduated from the Ontario Veterinary College in 2006 and has been a member of Russell Equine since graduation. From Russell originally, Dr. Adams has a long history with equine sport disciplines and is certified as an FEI treating veterinarian.
Operating for the better part of 20 years as Dr. Garth Henry Equine Services, Russell Equine took its current name in 2007 after Dr Adams became partner. Recently, Russell Equine has expanded to include the practice formerly operated by Dr. Carole Michon. With this new union, Russell Equine has become the largest Equine-only veterinary clinic in Eastern Ontario and has ranked as one of the largest equine only clinics in Canada east of Toronto.
Show Jump Course Walk Clinician: Jeff McKessock EC Competition Coach Specialist – Show Jumping, EC High Performance 1 Coach – Eventing
Jeff was introduced to working horses as a boy on his family’s cattle farm near Owen Sound. His career in horses began in Ottawa in 1978, where he taught riding lessons, became involved in the Canadian Coaching Program in its infancy, and competed in eventing in Canada and the U.S. At the peak of his competitive career, Jeff was long-listed for the 1984 3-Day Eventing Olympic Team. A horse lameness prevented that from coming to fruition and his focus switched to jumper competition with the horse that had been his back-up partner. This brought Jeff and his future wife to start Westar Farms, a training facility with a large riding school as well as a hunter, jumper and equitation competitive program. Jeff still maintains his appreciation for the foundations of dressage and the thrill of galloping cross- country. Those who most influenced Jeff as mentors and friends include Marianne Laframboise and the entire Laframboise family, Pam & Joe Nuth, Cara Whitham, Ian Millar and Jill Henselwood.
Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm 9 Media Interviews: Jon Garner Equestrian Canada Director of Sport
Garner has a long history and proven track record in equestrian sport as an athlete, coach, and administrator. Originally from Great Britain, he started riding at the young age of seven, and later served as a member of the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery in the British Army. Garner attained both Military and Civilian Equestrian Instructor certificates before moving to Canada in 1991.
In 1998, Garner joined internationally acclaimed Spruce Meadows first as a professional rider and then as the Manager, Competitions in 2004. During his tenure, Garner oversaw the delivery of numerous world-class equestrian competitions. For Equestrian Canada, Jon is working with key stakeholders (athletes, officials, owners, technical leads, OTP/ Sport Canada/COC) to further develop and refine Canada’s High Performance (HP) equestrian sport system. His duties at EC also include: • Developing a HP Major Games strategy towards 2020/2024 • Developing talent ID/development strategies with the technical discipline committees • Overseeing preparation and logistics for the Canadian Equestrian Team at all major games • Leading EC’s HP department
Jon will be conducting the Athlete and Coach live interviews on Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon. Credit: LibertyCredit: Shots
10 Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm Guest Speaker: Kara Glauser
Kara Glauser is an equine insurance broker for the Eastern Ontario region with BFL CANADA Risk and Insurance Services Inc. and is also a fellow Eventer having competed up to the Preliminary level.
Kara is an Equine Canada Certified Competition Coach, has an Honors Bachelor Degree specializing in Equine Management through the University of Guelph, and a Master’s degree in Education through the University of Western Ontario.
Stadium Jump Judge: Laura Kelland-May
Laura is a Sr. Judge in Hunter, Jumper, Hack and Equitation and founder of the Thistle Ridge Skill Builders Series© of Horse Show Clinics and Thistle Ridge Skill Builders©.
She is a well known judge in the Ottawa area and also does development clinics in the area.
Laura has over twenty years of experience as a coach and trainer; her services are in- demand both in person and in the online community. She has been featured guest with “How to Market Your Horse Business” (Facebook discussion) and a featured guest with “Horse Family Magazine” on #horsechat.
Laura is a mother, loves to ride and enjoys a quiet paddle down the river. She is also an avid bicyclist.
With 19 years of judging experience, you will get some tips to improve your placings and insight into common mistakes and things that you should NOT do in the ring. You can get the inside scoop on what judges think and what they want to see.
Pat McNeely – Official Farrier Pat’s Farrier Services
A graduate of Seneca College, Pat McNeely started Pat’s Farrier Services in 1992. Through his Merrickville, ON, based business he provides hot, cold and corrective shoeing services. Pat is also an elite athlete, and was a member of the Canadian National Triathlon team for three years. Pat is one of the few athletes who completed the grueling Hawaii Iron Man competition in 1998. Pat continues to compete in triathlon and marathon competitions. As an athlete himself, Pat understands the importance of strong feet – both human and equine! Pat will be joining teams in the 10 Minute Box area to assist with shoeing and corking issues on Endurance day and as needed throughout the competition.
Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm 11 Dressage Judge: Ron King
Ron has been riding for over 30 years and has been involved with horses for as long as he can remember. He began his competitive life as an Eventer, but soon after decided to specialize in Dressage.
Ron spent time living and training in Germany in the nineties with Dressage rider Herbert Naeher and Jumper rider Thomas Michel, where he furthered his knowledge of Dressage and gained experience training a variety of horses.
After moving back to Canada in 1998, Ron began coaching students from Training level to FEI. Shortly thereafter, he opened his own training and coaching business, Blueprint Farm.
Since 2001, Ron has been very active in starting young horses and preparing horses of all ages for the famous RCMP Auction that happens biannually, over the years having prepared over 100 horses. In addition, he has taught in the equine program at the former University of Guelph, Kemptville Campus, and helped several students work towards their Equestrian Canada Coaching Certification.
Ron has also been a long-time participant in the prestigious Young Dressage Horse Trainers Symposium hosted by Hassler Dressage in the USA, where he had the benefit of working with clinicians such as Steffen Peters, Michael Klimke, Ingo Pape, Ulf Mueller, Anne Gribbons and Scott Hassler.
Ron is an Equestrian Canada certified Judge and an Equestrian Canada High Performance Coach Candidate. Credit: LibertyCredit: Shots
12 Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm Show Jump Debrief: Selena O’Hanlon
Canadian Eventing Team Member, Olympic Games (2008), World Equestrian Games (2010) – Team Silver medalist, Pan American Games (2011) – Team Silver medalist
Selena is a long-standing member of the Canadian Eventing Team and has so far represented Canada at the Olympics, World Equestrian Games and Pan American Games.
As a lifelong equestrian and competitor, Selena has developed the ability to bring varying types of horses through the Eventing levels successfully. Selena is also a gifted clinician and coach, bringing her wealth of experience to every level she teaches.
Selena is a strong supporter of equestrian sport in her community. She donates her time to the Pony Club and Eventing Short Course associations near her home base of Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
As Selena always says: “Teamwork makes the dream the work!”
Selena will be assisting our competitors at the Show Jumping phase – analyzing each round and providing feedback to competitors as they exit the Show Jump ring. Credit: LibertyCredit: Shots
Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm 13 Sponsors We could not do this without our sponsors! We acknowledge and thank the following sponsors for their generous support of the Oakhurst Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition.
Brown’s
Pat’s Farrier Service Credit: LibertyCredit: Shots
14 Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm Official Photographer
Official Photographer: Heather Swan
The Oakhurst Three-Day Event is excited to welcome Heather Swan of Liberty Shots as the Official Photographer of our event!
Liberty Shots specializes in Equestrian Photography. We are also available to cover events that are non- horse related. Heather Swan is an experienced professional photographer. Heather will typically go to your stable or farm for the photo session. Having said that, if you have a beautiful spot in mind and a trailer—anything is possible! Her approach is: it has to be fun!
Heather is passionate about family, horses and photography. She lives on a hobby farm with three horses, three ponies and two terriers. She has an amazing talent for taking relaxed portraits that capture the connection between you and your horse—your relationship. You will end up with images that you will treasure for a lifetime.
Heather has worked on commission and on contract. She has experience with commercial and architectural as well as professional business portraits.
Visit Heather’s website at www.libertyshots.com and check out the Galleries. Credit: LibertyCredit: Shots
Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm 15 Registrants Entry Level Rider Horse Lindsay Brown Redemption Stephanie Calvert Jeremy Kieryn Davison Donatello Megan Jenner Rockin’ Rosie Megan Quinn King Stag Jenna Richards Rebellious Love Zoe Richardson Talk O’The Town Michelle Smith Lollipop Rebecca Walker Rookie Rebecca Walker Conquering Babylon
Pre-Training Rider Horse Avery Brennan Vanity Fair Kenzi Mitchell Sinatra R Danielle Semel Believe It Or Not Shauna Thompson MacIntosh
Training Rider Name Horse Name Jason Baillargeon Realeza Escondida Tim Bramble Celtic Riot Lauren Cook Northern Jazz Taya Davison Tatti Arla Day Zara Jacqueline Whalen Molinaro Duchessa
16 Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm
Welcome to Oakhurst Farm
Show Jump
Hospitality Area
Oakhurst Farm
8249 Fernbank Road Fernbank Road
Team Competition
Three horse and rider combinations compete together to win the Team Competition. If a team member is eliminated, they incur a score of 1000 for that phase. The fi ve teams with the lowest overall score will receive ribbons and prizes!
Teams must be declared before the start of all dressage – so get your teams formed!
Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm 17 Ground Rules
One person in the wrong place can present a safety hazard and inadvertently sabotage months and years of hard work for a competitor. Please take a moment to familiarize yourself with the guidelines for the safety of you, your family and our competitors – and to keep the competition fair. Here at Oakhurst
Horses Always Have the Right of Way Please keep your eyes and ears open for horses and riders and stay out of the way everywhere on the grounds. If you are on the cross-country course, look both ways and stay alert for directions from officials and volunteers.
Observe the Crowd Control Markers Spectator areas are well marked. You must stay at least 15 meters away from the dressage rings. For your own safety and that of the riders, stay behind marked barriers and ropes and keep clear of the area around cross-country fences. You may cross the cross-country course but always make sure that a horse is not coming and heed the directions of volunteers and judges.
Be Still When in the Line of Sight of An Approaching Horse Sudden movements of umbrellas, strollers or a crowd can be distracting. An innocent movement can affect the outcome of the competition or cause an accident. Horses startle easily and can be frightened of things they don’t expect.
Quiet Please! Spectator etiquette at equestrian competitions closely parallels that of major golf tournaments. Noise can distract horses and riders and affect the outcome of the competition or cause an accident. Remember to hold your applause until after a competitor exits the dressage ring, completes a cross-country fence or finishes the show jump course.
Do Not Assist a Competitor During the Competition Aiding a rider during competition outside designated areas, whether solicited or not, is forbidden, and can result in the elimination of the competitor. Please do not shout out directions or advice during tests or give directions in any way. You would not want to be responsible for the elimination of a competitor.
Keep a Close Watch on Children Children are not always aware of the danger that horses present. Please keep your children in your sight and under control always.
18 Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm Credit: LibertyCredit: Shots
Dogs Must be Leashed All dogs must be on a leash attached to a person. No loose dogs are permitted and will be removed from the competition area until their owner can be located.
Be Considerate of Our Farm We are very proud of our farm and our home and have worked very hard to make it the beautiful setting that it is. We are glad to share it with you today, but please give it the respect it deserves. Please use the trash containers provided and respect our gardens.
Do Not Hesitate to Ask Questions Our volunteers are here to make this event a success. If you are unsure of the rules or if you just have questions, they will be happy to help. Look for the people wearing red event t-shirts!
Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm 19 Good to Know Maps: Maps are included in the rider package and in the centre of this program.
Toilets: Portable toilets can be found placed at busier points around the farm.
Garbage Disposal: Garbage cans and recycling bins are available around the farm for spectator waste.
Shavings: Initial bedding is included in stall rental. Additional bedding may be purchased at the secretary’s office by the dressage warm-up area.
Parking: Follow the signs for parking and take the first right off the main laneway. Do *not* park in the laneway. Continue to the trailer and spectator parking area. We suggest that spectators park along the fence on the west side of the field.
Restaurants: The closest restaurant is Ashton Brew Pub, about 5 minutes away. Restaurants are also available in Munster Hamlet – 5 minutes away – as well as Carleton Place and Stittsville, both about a 10-minute drive.
SUPPLIES: Brown’s Your Independent Grocer in Stittsville is supplying ice for the horses for the clinic endurance day. Should you require ice and grocery items at other times, we encourage purchasing from Brown’s!
Rider Hospitality: The competitors and declared grooms are provided with lunch and beverages. Find these at the small cabin by the dressage rings.
Dogs: Well behaved dogs on leashes are welcome. Leave noisy and anxious dogs at home please.
A Brief History of Eventing The origins of Eventing go back to the cavalry where tests of skill were developed to test the cavalry pairs on their fitness and suitability, including dressage, cross-country and show jumping. The combination of the three tests challenges the horse and rider pair more than any other equestrian competition.
Dressage, a required parade ground skill, follows a sequence of movements on flat ground, with the focus on obedience, grace and fluidity. Cross-country tests bravery and fitness over solid obstacles and challenging terrain, important to show fitness for long marches and dispatches requiring speedy delivery. Lastly, show jumping tests for precision over a tight course with delicate jumps.
20 Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm Originally, the first Olympic competition for Eventing in 1912 was only open to active duty male military officers, on military horses. It focused more strongly on endurance, with a 33 mile cross-country test!
By 1924, the basic form of what we see today was in place, though the teams were provided by the army. The exact format continues to be tweaked even today for safety and audience engagement reasons.
Understanding the Three-Day Event
A Three-Day Event is comprised of three distinct Tests, taking place on separate days, during which the competitor rides the same horse throughout. The Tests are as follows:
Dressage Test The first Test of the Three-Day Event. Competitors are expected to ride through the test assigned to their level and are evaluated on their accuracy and the quality of each movement presented. The horse should appear supple, rhythmic, balanced, and obedient.
Cross-Country Test This Test is comprised of four distinct Phases, all of which are timed. Competitors are penalized for any issues incurred at obstacles as well as failure to complete each Phase within the optimum time. • Phase A (Roads and Tracks) is intended to be used as a warm-up for the subsequent Phases and takes place over marked trails. Competitors are required to pass through numbered gates in the correct order and direction. • Phase B (Steeplechase) requires the competitor to gallop around an oval course over several brush fences in numerical order. These brush fences act as warm-up jumps for Phase D. • Phase C (Roads and Tracks) is designed to be a cool-down from the Steeplechase and requires the competitor to pass through numbered gates in the correct order. There is a compulsory ten-minute halt at the end of this Phase where the horse’s health and soundness will be evaluated by a veterinarian. The horse must be cleared by the veterinarian prior to beginning the final Phase. • Phase D (Cross-Country Obstacles) resembles the cross-country portion of a Horse Trial. There can be another veterinary examination at the end of this Phase.
Jumping Test The final Test of the Three-Day Event resembles the show jumping portion of a Horse Trial. This Test is also timed, and competitors are penalized for exceeding the time allowed in addition to any issues at obstacles.
Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm 21 Rules This clinic will be conducted in accordance with the 2018 Equestrian Canada Rules, Section D: Eventing. Emphasis at all levels will be placed on the education of horse and rider, including the opportunity for supervised schooling over parts of the course prior to the start of the Test.
Individual and Team Classification The winning individual is the competitor with the lowest total of penalty points after all three Tests have been combined.
The winning team is the one with the lowest combined total of penalty points after all three Tests have been combined for each team member. There is no drop score.
Inspection and Examination of Horses: The Examination upon Arrival takes place when the horse arrives at the stables of the event. It is performed by a qualified Veterinary Official or Delegate, and the purpose is to establish each horse’s identity and its state of health (but not its soundness).
The First Horse Inspection takes place before the Dressage Test, normally the day before. It is conducted by the Ground Jury and the Veterinary Official or Delegate acting together as a committee. Each horse must be inspected in hand, at rest and in movement on a firm, level, and clean surface. The committee has the right and the duty to eliminate any horse that they judge to be unfit, whether for lameness, lack of condition or for any other reason.
The Second Horse Inspection takes place after Phase C, during the ten-minute compulsory halt. It is conducted by a member of the Ground Jury and by the Veterinary Official or Delegate. The inspection must be performed carefully but also as rapidly as possible to allow each horse as much time as possible for rest and recuperation. The committee has the right and the duty to eliminate any lame or exhausted horse.
The Examination after the Cross-Country Obstacle Test takes place after the competitor has completed Phase D. It is conducted by a qualified veterinarian appointed by the Organizing Committee in agreement with the Veterinary Official or Delegate. This veterinarian is responsible for carrying out any immediate treatment required by an injured or exhausted horse, as well as deciding if and when the horse is fit to return to the stables on foot. This veterinarian does not have the ability to eliminate a competitor, but they are required to report any findings to the Veterinary Official or Delegate and the Ground Jury.
The Third Horse Inspection takes place before the Jumping Test by the same committee and under the same conditions as the First Horse Inspection. The committee has the right to eliminate any horse they deem unfit to continue.
22 Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm Independence of Phases The four Phases of the Cross-Country Test (Phases A, B, C & D) are independent of one another regarding timekeeping. Loss of time in one Phase cannot be compensated for by gain of time in another.
Authorized Assistance At the start of Phase B and in the ten-minute box, and at any other point determined and announced by the Organizing Committee, it is permitted to assist the competitor and to attend to the horse. Scoring and Penalties Dressage Each movement in the test is awarded a mark from 0-10, with 0 being the lowest mark and 10 being the highest. Each Error of Test incurs a penalty of 2 points, while Errors of Course are cumulative, and competitors are penalized as follows: • First time by 2 points; • Second time by 4 points; and • Third time by elimination.
A percentage of the total possible score is calculated and then errors removed. The score is then inverted to determine the penalties awarded. For example, if a rider earns 75% of the possible marks for their dressage test, they will have 25.0 penalties heading into the Endurance phase. Cross-Country An optimum time is determined based on the length of the course and the average speed of travel for the level of competition. Competitors must come below (faster) than the optimum time to avoid incurring any time penalties. The speed fault time is determined by calculating the time in which the course would be completed if the competitor travelled at an average speed greater than the next highest level of competition. For example, an Entry level competitor travelling at an average speed greater than 400 mpm would incur speed fault penalties.
Faults at Obstacles: Disobediences: • First disobedience = 20 penalties • Second disobedience at same obstacle = 40 penalties • Third disobedience at same obstacle = Elimination (E) • Fourth disobedience on entire course = Elimination (E) Falls: • Fall of rider = Elimination (RF) • Fall of horse = Mandatory Retirement (MR)
Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm 23 Willful Delay: • Between the final fence and the finish line = 20 penalties
Frangible Devices: • Deployment of frangible device = 11 penalties
Time and Speed Faults: Time Faults: • Exceeding optimum time = 0.4 penalty point per second • Exceeding time limit = Elimination (E)
Speed Faults: • For each second under Speed Fault Time = 1 penalty point per second
Other Reasons for Elimination: • Omission of an obstacle or compulsory passage (TE) • Jumping an obstacle or passing through a compulsory passage in the wrong order or direction (TE) • Retaking an obstacle already jumped (TE)
Additional reasons for elimination can be found in the 2018 EC Rules, Section D: Eventing document.
Show Jumping
Faults at Obstacles: Fallen obstacles/disobediences… • Knocking down an obstacle = 4 penalty points • First disobedience = 4 penalty points • Second disobedience anywhere on course = 8 penalty points • Third disobedience anywhere on course = Elimination (E)
Falls: • Fall of rider = Elimination (RF) • Fall of horse = Mandatory Retirement (MR)
Time Faults: • Exceeding the time allowed = 0.25 penalty point per second • Exceeding time limit = Elimination (E)
Other Reasons for Elimination: • Jumping an obstacle in the wrong order or direction (TE)
24 Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm • Omitting to cross the starting line before jumping the first obstacle (TE) • Failure to cross the finishing line after having jumped the last obstacle before leaving the arena (TE)
Additional reasons for elimination can be found in the 2018 EC Rules, Section D: Eventing document. Lingo Are you new to Eventing? Here are some of the words and phrases you may hear while you are at our event.
Aids – This is a term used to describe the almost imperceptible signals given by a rider to the horse via seat, hand or leg movements.
Canadian Eventing – is the national governing body for the Olympic sport of Eventing.
Clean Round – means that the horse/rider team completed a course with no jump penalties.
Disobediences – Stops or run-outs at a jump.
Double Clean – means that the team has had no jump or time penalties.
EC – Equestrian Canada – is the National Sport Organization (NSO), the national governing body of equestrian sports in Canada. EC certifies instructors and coaches and represents the Canadian equestrian community nationally and internationally.
Error of Test – an error that is not related to the sequence of movements; – for example, entering the arena before the start signal is given. These errors are not cumulative.
Error of Course – an error related to the defined movements of the test; – for example, taking a wrong turn or omitting a movement. These errors are cumulative and could therefore result in elimination.
Farrier – is the person who cares for horses’ feet. A farrier is on hand at this event and can be seen replacing lost horse shoes near the main barn.
Faults – are penalties assessed for missing optimum time (time faults), for stops or run-outs at jumps, and in the show jumping phase for rails that are knocked down (jump faults).
Figures – a term used to describe movements made by horses and riders in dressage.
Gait – the movement of a horse’s feet in going, such as walk, trot, canter or gallop. In the steeplechase and often in the cross-country phases, horses are galloping.
Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm 25 Inspections/Examinations – a process whereby each horse is examined and assessed to determine their ability to proceed in the competition. The Examination upon Arrival, also called the “in barn inspection” or “arrival exam”, establishes the horse’s identity and provides a baseline of health. The First Horse Inspection occurs prior to the Dressage Test and assesses each horse’s soundness and fitness to begin the competition. The Second Horse Inspection takes place inside the ten-minute box between Phase C and Phase D, and once again serves to assess each horse’s soundness and fitness to continue. The Third Horse Inspection occurs before the Jumping Test to confirm the horse’s ability to proceed in the competition.
Levels of Competition – in Canada, there are several levels of competition, from Pre- Entry to Advanced. As the levels increase, a horse must jump higher, run faster and trust its rider more than it does at the lower levels. As the levels increase, the challenges of all the phases of the event get more technical.
OE – Ontario Equestrian is the Provincial/Territorial Sport Organization (PSO). The OE oversees equestrian activities in Ontario, organizes and hosts clinics and professional development activities for coaches, instructors and riders.
OHTA – the Ontario Horse Trials Association is the provincial body that oversees Eventing in Ontario.
On the Flat – a term to describe when a horse is performing only on the ground – no jumping is involved.
Optimum Time – Excluding dressage, there is an optimum time to complete each phase of the event. Penalties are assessed for completion times that exceed the optimum time, and for cross-country, there is a speed fault window below the optimum time in which no penalties are assessed.
Sound(ness) – a term used to describe the fitness of a horse’s legs. They must be free from flaw, injury or defect. All horses are watched for any signs of being “unsound”. A horse that is not sound may not compete. Credit: LibertyCredit: Shots
26 Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm We Love Our Volunteers! We could not run a clinic and competition of this caliber without our fabulous volunteers. They carry out of a myriad of activities, from advanced planning and preparation for many months in the lead-up, to day-of support. Advanced Planning Awards/Prize Committee Program Committee • Helen Richardson* • Dawn Shappert* • Sylvain Jobidon • Jenna Mayhew Sponsorship Development Committee Volunteer Coordination Committee • Helen Richardson • Barb Roadhouse Bresnahan* • Mark Nelson • Keely Davison • Ruth Allum* • Diane Kissick (*) Denotes Committee Chair
Day of Event Volunteers In addition to the above, we have many volunteers that come in to help during the actual event. They fulfill many roles including: • Grounds guidance (parking, security, fielding general information questions from riders and spectators) • Scoring support – secretaries, runners, scribes, timers • Rider support – whipper in, control, hospitality tent, vet assistants, 10 minute box teams, tack check, media relations • Grounds support – jump crew, cross-country jump judges We can’t easily put names to the day-of volunteers as in many cases they are identified after our cut-off date for the program. We do want to give them a huge shout out to say thank you! We could not run the event without the day-of volunteers who help everything run smoothly. You are amazing! Please feel free to join us for our Saturday night’s competitor dinner! Thank you!
The Oakhurst 3 Day Organizing Committees express their thanks to: • Graphic Design by Billie MacDonald • All of our fabulous clinicians, judges and the non-clinician support d e s i g n roles who make this event possible • And of course all of the coaches and riders – especially those who travelled from beyond the Ottawa area! We welcome you!
Three-Day Event Clinic and Competition – Oakhurst Farm 27 Oakhurst Farm 8249 Fernbank Road, R.R. 4 Ashton, ON K0A 1B0, Canada www.oakhurstfarm.com 28 Three-Day Event Clinic and CompetitionCredit: Liberty – Oakhurst Shots Farm