Start at Grassroots Level

Many clubs run:

• Pre-season training days
• Indoor training events
• Friendly, grass-roots competitions

These are ideal for complete beginners. They allow you to gain experience in a supportive environment before entering larger club competitions.

We strongly recommend:

• Attending training events
• Seeking guidance from an experienced competitor
• Taking professional lessons before your first competition

Understanding the rules

Driving Trials rules are detailed and should be studied carefully before entering your first event.
The official rule book (available online and in print via the British Carriagedriving website) applies to National competitions and is based on international FEI standards. Most clubs follow the same structure but often include relaxations for newcomers.
If you are unsure about any rule, ask an experienced driver or contact the event organiser before entering.

What is a Driving Trials Event?

A Horse Driving Trials competition consists of three phases:

• Dressage
• Cones (Obstacle Cone Driving)
• Marathon

At National level these are usually held over three days. Many club events run over two days, and some offer all three phases in one day. Indoor events typically run all phases in a single day.

Your final score combines penalties from all three phases. The lowest overall score wins.

Get Professional Training

Professional coaching is invaluable, particularly before your first competition.
Qualified instructors holding the Equestrian Coaching Certificate (Driving) are listed on the British Carriagedriving website. Coaches may:

• Teach at your home with your own horse or pony
• Operate from equestrian centres
• Provide horses and carriages for lessons

Even experienced competitors continue training to improve performance.

Choosing Your First Event

Start by checking the online Events Diary on the British Carriagedriving website. Club websites also list their own fixtures.
Download the event schedule.

This contains:

• Classes offered
• Entry fees
• Closing dates
• Start time information
• Organiser contact details

Entries must be submitted with payment before the closing date.

Classes Explained

Classes are based on driver experience, not the horse.

• Newcomer classes are for less experienced drivers
• Once you progress to Open, you remain Open (even with a new horse)
• Most beginners compete in Single Pony or Single Horse classes
• Very Small Equine (11hh and under) classes may have reduced speeds and distances

Pairs, tandems and teams require significant experience.

Your Horse or Pony

At club level, most horses and ponies are eligible provided they:

• Have previous driving experience
• Are not unpredictable or dangerous
• Are fit enough for the marathon

The marathon may cover up to 10km over varied terrain. Ensure your animal is fit enough to pull the carriage, driver and groom safely over this distance.

If unsure — ask for advice.

Vehicles

At club level, most safe, well-maintained vehicles are acceptable.
Key points:

• Two-wheel or four-wheel vehicles may be used
• The vehicle must fit your horse or pony correctly
• It must be balanced (especially two-wheelers)
• Minimum marathon track width: 125cm
• Recommended dressage/cones track width: 138cm (clubs may allow marathon width for beginners)

Four-wheelers generally offer:

• Greater stability
• Improved manoeuvrability
• A safer position for the groom on the backstep

Never compete with an unbalanced or unsafe vehicle.

Harness

Leather or synthetic harness is permitted if:

• It fits properly
• It is well-maintained
• It is safe and correctly adjusted

Important rules:

• Breeching is compulsory
• Bitless bridles are not permitted
• Open bridles are often not allowed
• Breast collars are commonly used for marathon

Poorly fitted harness can cause rubs and discomfort, particularly during the marathon.

The Role of the Groom

A groom is required in all phases (except specific small equine exemptions).

The groom must:

• Be physically capable of assisting in an emergency
• Be at least 14 years old (18 if the driver is under 18)
• Be seated in dressage and cones
• Manage timekeeping and navigation in the marathon

During dressage and cones, the groom may not communicate with the driver.

In the marathon, the groom may stand on the backstep to assist balance and turning.

Mandatory Safety Equipment

Safety is the highest priority in Driving Trials.
Required:

• Hard hats (cones and marathon)
• Gloves (all phases)
• Back protectors (compulsory for marathon)

Seatbelts are permitted but must never be fixed at both ends. The groom must be able to release the driver immediately in case of overturning.

Always carry:

• Sharp knife
• Lead rope
• Spare trace
• Rein splice
• Twine or string
• Leather hole punch

A mobile phone may be carried for emergencies but not used during competition.

Timekeeping Matters

Arrive early. Most events require competitors at the start 10 minutes before their allocated time.

Your groom should carry:

• A watch (synchronised to official time)
• A stopwatch for marathon timing

Late arrival may result in penalties or elimination.

The Three Phases Explained

1. DRESSAGE
Purpose: Demonstrates obedience, accuracy and harmony.

• Arena size: 40m x 80m (Singles)
• Test must be driven from memory
• Groom must remain silent and seated
• Salute the judge at the end

Marks out of 10 are awarded per movement and converted into penalty points.

Tip: Have someone video your test for review.

2. CONES (OBSTACLE CONE DRIVING)
Purpose: Tests accuracy and control at speed.

• Cones are set only 10–15cm wider than your wheel track
• 3 penalties per ball dislodged
• Time penalties apply if you exceed the time allowed

Walk the course beforehand. Beginners often go too fast — rhythm and control are more important than speed.

A clear round within time = “double clear”.

3. MARATHON
Purpose: Tests fitness, stamina and skill.
Usually divided into sections (often A and B).

• Section A: Controlled pace with time window
• Transfer/rest phase
• Section B: Faster section including obstacles

Obstacles (Hazards)

• 4–8 per course
• Gates labelled A, B, C etc.
• Must be driven in sequence
• 0.25 penalties per second spent inside
• Knock-downs incur penalties

Walk the obstacles beforehand and plan your route carefully.

How Scoring Works

All scores are shown as penalties.

• Dressage penalties (lower is better)
• 3 penalties per cone ball
• Time penalties in cones and marathon
• Obstacle time penalties (0.25 per second)

Lowest total score wins.

Final Advice for New Competitors

• Prepare early
• Ask questions
• Walk every course carefully
• Check harness and vehicle thoroughly
• Drive within your limits
• Focus on safety at all times

Most importantly — enjoy it.

Club competitions are friendly, supportive and a fantastic way to develop your driving skills.

We look forward to seeing you at your first event.