Eventing is often described as the biggest challenge for horse and rider. Certainly on paper it seems as if you’re asking the impossible to find a horse who can do three different disciplines well.
What the experts look for in an Eventer
Mark Todd
“These days with the shorter format you need to have a horse that can really gallop and move across the ground. The horse also needs to be scopey, brave, but also careful and trainable”.
Zara Phillips
“They have to move well, jump well, be naturally athletic and, perhaps most importantly, they have to enjoy what they do. It certainly helps if they’re trainable too”.
What temperament should you look for in an eventer?
International event rider and trainer Kate Walls is on hand with advice on how to buy an
eventer.
Temperament
Temperament and the willingness to be trained are vital in eventing at all levels and should be your first priority when choosing a horse. Look for one with a kind eye and who is alert and interested in his surroundings. Watch him being led from the stable – is he keen and raring to go or sluggish and uninterested? If it’s the latter, there’s a chance this will translate into his ridden work.
Next article: What to look for in an event horse - conformation and movement
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