Cross Country Equestrian (CCE) Competition Specifics

Classes of Competition

Class determines the format of the competition - which Stages are included and their parameters. Classes have one, two or three Stages, and those competitions with multiple Stages have concurrent single Stage Classes.

Class A is the highest and regarded as the end-of season major competition goal. It has three stages that are run over three days and requires the most preparation and qualification.

Class C is the standard competition format with two Stages - the Cross Country Ride (CCR) and the Jump Off Ride (JOR). These may be run over one to two days and are the foundation of CCE.

Class E is a single stage CCR competition and Class F is a single Stage JOR competition. These can be run alone, or together within a Class C competition.

Several other lower Classes are versions with additional allowances creating more opportunities for competitors and the ability for organizers to optimize their competition.

Types of Obstacles

In the two primary Stages of CCE there are four basic categories of obstacles on each course.

Regular (RG) obstacles have dimensions and technical difficulty that is standard to the Level. Most obstacles on the course are RG obstacles. Regular obstacles can be attempted twice before a Mandatory Pass is required.

Challenge (CH) obstacles have size or difficulty of the next higher Level. Approximately 20% of obstacles on the CCR and JOR course are CH obstacles. Challenge obstacles may be attempted only once before a Mandatory Pass is required.

Knock Down (KD) obstacles have an upper element that can be dislodged. In most cases a “Captive Element” system is used to ensure safety. Approximately 20% of the obstacles on the CCR course are KD obstacles. On the JOR course approximately 50% are KD obstacles, with most being located in the arena setting. Knock Down obstacles may be attempted only once before a Mandatory Pass is required

Connected (CO) obstacles are two or more obstacles that are in such close proximity that it would be hazardous or impossible to jump only one, and not all. When a rider chooses to attempt a CO obstacle, they have elected to attempt the other CO obstacles and will be penalized if they fail to jump any.

Note: An obstacle that is both RG and KD is referred to as a KD obstacle. An obstacle that is both CH and KD is referred to as a CH obstacle. Specific rules pertain to each type of obstacle.

Scoring

CCE is a completely objectively scored sport - no subjective opinions. Points are scored for successfully jumping obstacles, and penalties incurred for mistakes or exceeding the course time.

POINTS:

  • Regular (RG) obstacles: 15 points
  • Challenge (CH) obstacles: 30 points

PENALTIES:

  • Refusal / Run-out 50 penalties
  • Knock Down 10 penalties (deducted from points scored)
  • Exceeding Time 1 penalty per second started
  • Passing Incorrectly 50 penalties

POINTS – PENALTIES = FINAL SCORE

There are additional situations that are scored relating to occurrences on the course, bad conduct at a competition, and a Bonus Point allocation that incentivizes actions such as the use or non-use of certain equipment. Scoring is the basis of Qualification and eligibility to Level-Up and Class-Up.

Attempt or Pass

Any obstacle on a CCE course can be Passed without penalty. The competitor simply rides past the obstacle on the correct side as indicated by flags and/or placard, or through a “Pass Gate” of flags nearby to the obstacle. Passing incorrectly incurs penalties which discourages taking a shortcut on the course. Competitors that have attempted obstacles and either decide to Pass or are required by a Mandatory Pass, can pass on any side as they have remained on the course proper.

Qualification and Eligibility

Qualification is generally required at all but the lowest Levels. Qualifying is simple and based on attaining threshold Qualifying Scores at CCE competitions

For a limited period during the launch of this new sport, eligibility to enter Levels that do require qualification will require a proof of experience record and/or a competency test prior to the competition. The test is a short course of obstacles that the competitor must complete before starting the CCE competition

Once proper competitions are underway the primary means to Level-Up and Class-Up will be via Q-Scores. Additional eligibility requirements provide a clear system for relegation situations and incentivize appropriate promotion situations.

Spectator and Public Appeal

CCE has been designed with the spectator and casual observer in mind too. A simple, objective and logical scoring structure that is easy to understand is essential. An approachable outward appearance that eliminates pretense and actively displays real concern for equine welfare is also important. A sport that is clearly accessible and inclusive opens the door for more participants, supporters and fans.

The format of the highest Class of CCE is designed around an engaging spectator experience, starting with a slowly building first stage, a dramatic and involved second stage, and a unpredictable and enthralling final stage.

The result is an equestrian sport with broad appeal - the most critical element for the success and sustainability of any sport.