This is the most popular question that we hear, and we get it, everyone wants to chase the adrenaline rush. However, the move-up process should be stress free and confident for both the horse and rider. Now, when to move up may not always be clear to parents and riders, but it is always clear to the instructor. This guide is here to help riders and parents get a clear understanding of what is expected at each level, and what is required when moving up.
When looking at a pair and questioning whether they are ready to move up, think about what they are schooling at home, how high the horse has ever competed, and what level the rider has schooled/competed. Each pair will have a different journey, and we need to think about the competency and preparation needed to go up a level.
In general, expect it to take a minimum of one season to gain confidence in a level. Sometimes it takes longer than one season, you should not be discouraged by this and it does not say anything bad about you or your horse.
So some things to remember…
It is your responsibility as a rider to make sure that both you and your horse have the confidence and time to be successful.
Moving up too quickly will always result in a loss of success.
Coming home safely and confidently for both rider and horse is the goal of Eventing, never leveling up.
Always talk to your instructor before signing up to ensure that you are in the best division for both horse and rider.
"When can I move up!"
General Requirements to Compete at Each Level:
Intro:
I. Dressage
A. Demonstrate ability to ride correct 20 meter circles at trot
B. Demonstrate ability to ride correct centerlines and changes of direction across the diagonal properly.
II. Cross Country
A. Successfully complete at least 2 XC clinics/lessons at the Intro level
B. Approval of instructor
III. Stadium
A. Able to trot a course of six 18″ jumps in the outdoor arena consistently in a safe manner.
Starter Level:
I. Dressage
A. Demonstrate ability to ride correct 20 meter circles at trot and canter
B. Consistently bend horse correctly for circles and turns
II. Cross Country
A. Successfully complete at least 3 XC clinics/lessons at Starter level, one of which must be off property.
B. Be able to trot all the way around the big cross country field in a controlled, balanced manner.
III. Stadium
A. Able to canter a course of at least 8 fences at 2’3″ in the outdoor arena consistently (balanced and on the correct lead) in a safe manner.
IV. Competition – Complete at least 2 events at the Intro level with
A. Dressage score of 45 or lower
B. Cross Country – Clear, no issues
C. Stadium – Clear – trotting or cantering the whole course in a controlled manner
Beginner Novice Level:
I. Dressage
A. Able to bend horse consistently in both directions
B. Able to consistently perform transitions between the gaits on command within three steps
C. Beginning to get the horse on the bit
II. Cross Country
A. Complete at least 3 XC clinics/lessons at the BN level (two must be off property)
B. Rider must demonstrate ability to attain a balanced 325 mpm canter from a working canter within five strides.
C. Rider must demonstrate ability to attain a balanced working canter from a 325 mpm canter within five strides
III. Stadium
A. Able to canter a course of at least 8 fences at 2’7″ in the outdoor arena consistently (balanced and on the correct lead) in a safe manner
IV. Competition – Complete at least 3 events at Starter level with
A. Dressage score 45 or lower
B. Cross Country – Clear no issues – All at canter unless footing or course necessitates trotting
C. Stadium – Clear no issues at the canter
Novice Level:
I. Dressage
A. Horse consistently on the bit for walk-trot-canter
B. Consistently perform prompt organized transitions
II. Cross Country
A. Successfully complete at least 3 XC clinics/lessons at the Novice level
III. Stadium
A. Canter courses at 2’11” in the outdoor arena consistently (balanced and on the correct lead) in a safe manner
IV. Competition – Complete at least 3 events at the BN level with
A. Dressage score 40 or below
B. Cross Country – Clear with no time faults
C. Stadium – Clear with no time faults
Training and above – Follow USEA guidelines
*Buffalo Run Farm horses do not go past Beginner Novice without a rider fully leasing them*