The Sport
What is Working Equitation?
A demonstration of the partnership between horse and rider, drawn from the traditions of working horsemen and judged across four phases.
Working Equitation tests the qualities a horse needed in a day's real work: obedience, agility, calmness, courage and the ability to respond to the lightest of aids. It has grown into an international sport with four phases, but the heart of it is unchanged — the honest, practical partnership between a rider and their horse.
Riders progress through levels, beginning with simple courses at walk and trot, and advancing towards one-handed riding at canter over technical obstacles. Every level is judged on the same principles, so the skills you build early never go to waste.
Phase 01
Dressage
Demonstrates harmony, balance and communication between horse and rider.
Ridden in a marked arena to a set test, the dressage phase rewards rhythm, suppleness and quiet, accurate riding. It forms the foundation every other phase is built on.
Phase 02
Ease of Handling
Technical obstacle course assessing precision and partnership.
Riders negotiate obstacles drawn from working traditions — gates, bridges, jugs, barrels, bull pen and garrocha pole — judged on style, accuracy and calm control.
Phase 03
Speed
The obstacle course completed against the clock.
The same obstacles ridden for time. Penalties apply for faults, so the fastest round is rarely the most rushed one — it is the most efficient.
Phase 04
Cattle
A team event demonstrating stock-handling ability and horsemanship.
Teams of riders draft a nominated beast from the herd and pen it, showcasing genuine working ability, teamwork and quiet stockmanship.
New to the sport?
Come and watch
Visit a club event as a spectator. Entry is free, the commentary explains each obstacle, and members are happy to talk you through it.
Book a clinic
Our clinics are built for first-timers. Small groups, plenty of repetition, and no pressure to do anything your horse is not ready for. To participate, membership is required.
Become a memberEnter your first class
Join the club, pick a grassroots class and enter online. You will be paired with a member who can help on the day.