Wondering what the levels of eventing in the United States are? From the official recognition of the Starter level to the creation of the Modified division, there's a lot to talk about! Check out this full guide to understand all the options here in the US for eventing.
Eventing, often dubbed the "equestrian triathlon," is a thrilling sport that tests the skills and partnership between horse and rider across three disciplines: dressage, cross-country jumping, and show jumping. As riders progress through the levels, they face increasingly challenging courses and tests that demand precision, athleticism, and courage. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the levels of eventing in the United States, from Starter through Advanced, exploring what each level entails and what riders can expect as they climb the ranks.
Starter Level
Officially recognized by the USEA in 2023, Starter level is designed for novice riders and horses, providing an introduction to the sport in a supportive and encouraging environment. In dressage, tests are typically at the walk, trot, and canter, focusing on basic movements and transitions. Show jumping courses feature 8-10 jumps around 2’3”, with simple lines and straightforward turns. Cross-country courses include inviting fences no higher than 2’3”, with mostly logs and simple obstacles.
Starter Level Jump Height: 2'3"
Beginner Novice
Prior to 2023, Beginner Novice as the lowest recognized level of eventing in the United States. The level is designed to introduce horses and riders to the sport, and the goal for the experience should be educational to build confidence and a desire to progress. At this level, Competitors should be prepared to do a walk, trot, and canter dressage test with 20-meter figures and a halt. Show jumping courses are set at 2’7” with typically inviting and straightforward courses. Cross-country courses introduce jumps up 2’7”, including small ditches and banks.
Beginner Novice Jump Height: 2'7"
Novice
At the Novice level, intermediate riders and horses continue to progress up the ranks of lower level eventing. Dressage does not vary greatly from the Beginner Novice level, with both levels featuring tests that are remarkably similar to the USDF Training Level tests. Show jumping courses feature jumps at a height of 2’11”, with combinations and related distances to navigate. Cross-country courses include jumps up to 2’11” as well, with combinations and water obstacles to negotiate.
Novice Jump Height: 2'11"
Training
Training level competitions challenge experienced riders and horses with dressage tests demanding collection and precision in movements. Show jumping courses feature jumps at a height of 3’3”, with technical lines and challenging combinations. Cross-country courses include jumps up to 3’3” high, with more technical questions beginning to arise at this level.
Training Jump Height: 3'3"
Modified
The Modified level is for the Training level horse with the intent on progressing to the Preliminary or international One-Star level. The dressage test includes leg yield, medium gaits, and changes of lead through the trot. The maximum jump height is 3'5".
Modified Jump Height: 3'5"
Preliminary
Preliminary is the first of the “upper” levels of US Eventing, correlating with the international level of a one-star (*) event. Dressage tests will be comparable to a USDF first level test, and there is an increasing degree of technical questions in jumping courses with heights up to 3'7"
Preliminary Jump Height: 3'7"
Intermediate
Correlating with the international two-star (**) level of eventing, you can expect to see dressage tests comparable to USDF Second Level, and increasingly technical jump courses with heights up to 3'9".
Intermediate Jump Height: 3'9"
Advanced
At the Advanced level, elite riders and horses face dressage tests that push the boundaries of skill and precision. Advanced is the highest nationally recognized level of eventing in the United States and is comparable to the international three-star (***) level. Dressage tests may include half passes and flying lead changes, and jump heights are up to 3'11".
Advanced Jump Height: 3'11"
Conclusion
The levels of eventing in the United States offer riders a progressive pathway to develop their skills, challenge their abilities, and forge a strong partnership with their equine partners. From the introductory courses of Starter level events to the demanding challenges of the Advanced level, each step in the journey prepares riders for the exhilarating tests that await them in the arena and on the cross-country course. Whatever level riders aspire to reach, the sport of eventing offers endless opportunities for growth, learning, and unforgettable experiences in the world of equestrian sport.
