Cross-country jumping is a test of endurance, skill, and agility following a prescribed course through forest and fields. The horse and rider are required to negotiate natural obstacles like logs, ditches, streams, banks, hills, and fences. The course may be over two miles (4000 meters), although at the lower levels the distance and pace will be much less. Cross-country jumping is often part of a three-day event or horse trial that may include stadium jumping and dressage.
The goal of cross-country jumping is to jump a clear round with no penalties for disobedience, falls, or rider errors. An optimum time is posted and competitors must complete within this time window. While the goal of some competitors may be a ribbon, many compete for the thrill of completing