2025 AEC PROGRAM
49
SHOW JUMPING: The show
jumping phase ends the event. The
course is comprised of a series of
colorfully painted fences made up
of lightweight rails that are easily
knocked down. The courses are
designed to test the horse and
rider's ability to negotiate a variety
of fences that differ in height, width,
and appearance. This requires
very exact riding, and a horse that
is balanced and careful enough
to make tight turns, shorten or
lengthen his stride in an instant,
and tuck his knees up to his chin to
leave all the rails in their cups. For
spectators, this phase offers some
breathtaking moments, as just a
single dropped rail can change the
final standings dramatically.
