“Eventing” is the equine equivalent of the triathlon — which combines the disciplines of dressage, show jumping and cross-country. Eventing is perhaps the most dangerous sport in the Summer Olympics—where Eventing has claimed a spot since 1912. The Dressage phase begins every eventing competition. Originally designed to show the horse’s ability to perform intricate movements on the parade involved with reviewing troops, today the dressage test comprises a set series of movements performed in an enclosed arena. Precision, smoothness, suppleness and complete obedience show off the horse’s responsiveness. The Cross-Country test takes place on the second day of competition. The object of this test is to prove the partnership of the horse and rider, and the horse’s courage, speed, endurance, and jumping ability over varied terrain, through water and over obstacles such as logs, stone walls or hedges. This is gruelling as they gallop to complete the course in a required time. The third and final test takes place in the show jumping arena. A show jumping course comprises a series of coloured fences made up of rails that are easily knocked down. This final phase tests the stamina and recovery of the horse after the Cross Country phase and shows the precision and jumping ability of the partnership.