Summary of Class Progression

For newcomers to outdoor Competition Carriage Driving with little or no prior experience, or those transitioning from indoor competitions. Completion of an Introductory Safety & Competence Assessment is required before attending the first event unless the competitor already has indoor experience.

For competitors advancing from Gateway classes, newcomers wishing to begin outdoor competition, or those new to outdoor events after competing indoors or in indoor/outdoor classes.
National Entry: Competitors must hold a BC competence certificate signed at two club events including a marathon.

For competitors progressing from Gateway or Pre-Novice classes, newcomers beginning outdoor competition, or those with prior indoor/indoor-outdoor experience.

Competitors may also enter with a young or inexperienced equine that has not competed above Novice. These competitors must return to Open Class at the end of the season in which they win their first event and are ineligible for the National Novice Championship.

National Entry: Competitors without prior National Pre-Novice experience must hold a BC competence certificate signed at two club events including a marathon.

For competitors who have won a National Novice class twice or the Novice National Championship.

Progression is also possible after completing two Open National Events without elimination, with a dressage score of 60 or less. Drivers of multiple turnouts may enter following an assessment and a minimum of two club-level events with the turnout.

For competitors aiming to compete at the highest national or international level. Progression requires completion of three Open National Events without elimination, with a dressage score of 60 or less at one of these events.

For turnouts 11hh (112cm) and under. Organisers will monitor carriage and driver/groom weight to ensure equine welfare.

For turnouts 12.2hh (127cm) and under. Organisers and judges will monitor carriage and driver/groom weight to ensure equine welfare.

For drivers classified under the Drivers with Disabilities Protocol (Grade 1 or 2).

Young Drivers compete in the BC class for which they are eligible, completing the dressage test required for that class. Optionally, they may also drive the Young Drivers FEI test at the end of the day.

• Children: Single pony, aged 12–14

• Juniors: Single horse & pony, aged 14–18; Horse pair, aged 16–18

• Under 25: Singles & horse pair, aged 16–25; Horse 4s, aged 18–25