About Eventing - Central States Dressage & Eventing Association

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Eventing
Three Phases. One Partnership. Endless Opportunity to Grow.

Eventing is often referred to as the ultimate test of a horse and rider's partnership, and for good reason. It asks both horse and rider to be adaptable, focused, and willing to grow across three very different but equally demanding phases: the precision and harmony of dressage, the boldness and stamina of cross-country, and the accuracy and rideability required in stadium jumping. Together, these phases create a sport that develops not only technical skill, but also confidence, resilience, and a deeper, more responsive partnership.

More than a horse trial, eventing is a training and preparation in motion. It teaches riders how to prepare with intention, ride with clarity, and problem-solve in real time. It develops horses that are athletic yet confident, and it challenges riders to become more thoughtful, balanced, and effective in every ride.

Because it brings together three distinct disciplines, eventing naturally creates growth opportunities at every level. Each phase requires thoughtful training, clear communication, and the ability to adapt—skills that carry directly into stronger riding, better decision-making, and a deep understanding of the horse. At its core, eventing is about building capable horses, confident riders, and strong partnerships rooted in communication, preparation, and horsemanship that extend far beyond the arena or cross-country course.

Whether you are just beginning your journey, stepping up through the levels, or refining your competitive edge, eventing offers a lifelong pathway of learning, progression, and connection with your horse at every stage.

What Is Eventing?

Eventing is a three-phase equestrian sport that combines:

Dressage
Cross-country
Stadium/show jumping

Each phase tests a different aspect of the horse and rider partnership, requiring competitors to balance precision, endurance, athleticism, and strategy throughout the competition. To be successful in eventing, riders must develop strong fundamentals, thoughtful training systems, and a deep understanding of their horse’s physical and mental needs. It’s a discipline that rewards patience, preparation, adaptability, and trust.

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Phase One:
Dressage

The first phase of eventing is dressage, where horse and rider perform a set series of movements inside an enclosed arena. Judges evaluate accuracy, balance, suppleness, rhythm, and overall harmony between horse and rider.

Beyond the competition arena, dressage plays an essential role in preparing the event horse physically and mentally. Through systematic training, horses develop strength, elasticity, balance, and responsiveness—qualities that become critical during the cross-country and jumping phases. The dressage phase showcases the foundation of training behind the partnership and demonstrates the rider’s ability to channel the horse’s energy into controlled, precise movement.

Phase Two:
Cross-Country

Cross-country is often considered the heart of eventing and the phase that draws riders and spectators alike. The course is run across varied terrain and this phase tests bravery, stamina, pace, conditioning, and partnership over a course of fixed obstacles.

Depending on the level, horses and riders may travel between one-and-a-half to three miles while negotiating combinations of natural fences, water crossings, banks, ditches, and technical questions that require boldness and smart decision-making. Cross-country riding asks riders to balance speed with control while maintaining trust and communication with their horse across changing terrain and challenging obstacles. It’s a true test of preparation, fitness, and horsemanship.

Phase Three:
Stadium Jumping

The final phase of eventing takes place in the stadium arena, where horse and rider navigate a course of colored jumps designed to test precision, rideability, balance, and recovery after the cross-country phase.

Stadium jumping requires careful riding and quick decision-making. Riders must accurately navigate tight turns, technical lines, and varying fence heights while maintaining rhythm and adjustability throughout the course. Often, just one rail can dramatically affect the final standings, making this phase both exciting and demanding for competitors and spectators alike. In smaller competitions or at the lower levels, this phase will sometimes be held after the dressage test.

A Sport Built on Preparation & Partnership

Eventing challenges riders to become students of every aspect of horsemanship. From conditioning and flatwork to strategy, fitness, and horse care, achieving success requires patience, discipline, adaptability, and a willingness to continue learning.

At every level, eventing encourages riders to strengthen communication with their horses while building confidence through progressive training and experience. It is a sport that rewards patience, adaptability, and dedication, creating partnerships that are capable, resilient, and prepared for whatever challenges lie ahead.

Whether you're preparing for your first horse trial, looking to gain experience at schooling shows, or continuing to advance your skills through clinics and educational opportunities, having access to quality events and learning experiences is an important part of the journey. Check out our opportunities below designed to help you gain experience, build confidence, and continue growing as a rider and horse person.

View Upcoming Schooling Shows

View Upcoming Recognized Shows

View Upcoming Clinics & Educational Events

How CSDEA Supports Eventing Riders

Eventing is a sport built on continual learning, meaningful connections, and opportunities to gain experience. Whether you're introducing a young horse to competition, preparing for your first horse trial, or pursuing long-term competitive goals, having access to education, resources, and a supportive community can make the journey more rewarding.

CSDEA is proud to support eventing riders throughout the Upper Midwest by helping create opportunities to learn, compete, connect, and grow within the sport. Through our programs and member benefits, riders have access to:

Educational clinics and schooling opportunities
Competitions and local events
Community support and rider connections
Scholarships and sponsorship opportunities
Resources for training and horse care
Recognition through awards and achievement programs

Our goal is to support riders at every stage of their eventing journey while helping strengthen the eventing community throughout the region. Whether you're taking your first steps into the sport or continuing to progress through the levels, CSDEA provides opportunities to stay engaged, continue learning, and connect with fellow riders who share your passion for horses and horsemanship.

Ready to take advantage of everything CSDEA has to offer? Become part of a community dedicated to supporting eventers across the Upper Midwest.

Learn More About Membership

Start Your Eventing Journey

Eventing is a sport that challenges you to grow as a rider and as a horseman. Along the way, you'll develop new skills, gain confidence, and build a stronger partnership with your horse through education, experience, and thoughtful training. While the sport may seem complex from the outside, no one progresses alone.

Behind every successful eventer is a support system of knowledgeable trainers, quality facilities, mentors, and a community that helps guide the journey. Whether you're taking your first lesson, introducing your horse to cross-country, or setting your sights on your next competitive goal, having the right resources can make all the difference. Finding a trainer who understands your goals and a facility that supports your development is often the first step toward a rewarding and successful eventing experience.

Explore Local Eventing Trainers & Barns

Eventing Three Phases. One Partnership. Endless Opportunity to Grow.