Horse Driving Trials were initiated in this country in 1972. Most of their publicity has been derived from the passionate support and successful participation of H.R.H. The Duke of Edinburgh. Today there are around 20 National three-day events held across the country and Brighton is the opening event to the season. The competition is divided into three phases: Dressage, The Marathon and The Obstacle Course. This is a spectacular event to watch and when talking to a competitor you will be amazed by the time and commitment they put in throughout the year ensuring their horses are in tiptop condition for the events. Competitors are both male and female ageing between 14 - 70+ all competing on an equal footing.
The Presentation & Dressage Competitors in their finery reflecting traditions of their ancestors, perform the Dressage Test - a series of movements, attempting to display obedience, suppleness and balance of their horses, creating a picture of elegance, forward momentum and charisma. Competitors accrue penalty points from the judges depending on their performance.
The Marathon Man and Horse against time and the elements. Upwards of twenty miles, covering the most testing terrain, divided into three or five sections. The Driver and their navigator, map in hand, follow a course: trot and walk sections in specific times, culminating with the hazards - a series of man-made and natural elements to be driven as fast as nerve will allow. Failure to achieve correct times and every second spent negotiating the hazards accrue penalty points. Error on the course can lead to elimination.
The Obstacle Course The final nail-biting section - often the decider of a closely fought contest. Against the clock the the Driver tests his skills and his horses obedience and suppleness against the course designer’s challenging twisting obstacle course, incorporating bridges, zebra crossings, water etc. A small ball perches precariously on top of each cone - which if knocked down accrue five more penalty points. At the end of an exhausting but exciting competition, the competitor with the lowest penalty points is declared the Winner.

If you would like to find out more about the sport of Horse Driving Trials why not join a local driving club where you can get involved in activities without even owning your own horse.

Visit the site of your nearest Driving Club:

Mid Sussex/Surrey The Brockham Harness Club

East Sussex The Oak Driving club

If your area is not listed please visit The British Horse Driving Trials Association who have contact details for all driving clubs in the UK.