Show jumping was initially developed in the eighteenth century, when parliamentary rule decreed that open fields be enclosed. This meant that hunters had to jump hedges and fences, so riders began to breed and train their horses to be better jumpers.

These days, show jumping competitions are held worldwide and the courses usually consist of brightly coloured fences, rather than traditional looking obstacles. Along with the other equestrian disciplines, it is one of the few Olympic sports that enable men and women to compete against each other on an equal footing.

The aim of a show jumping competition is to jump a course of varied fences (including uprights, spreads and triple bars) as accurately as possible within a time limit; there are no marks for style. If a fence is knocked down or the horse refuses to jump, then the competitor is awarded four penalty points. There is also a time limit and, if exceeded, the combination is penalised one point per second. The aim of the competition is to jump round the course leaving all the fences up – known as a clear round – and incur no penalties.

The first round is followed by a second round called a jump off, and those who completed the first round with no penalties are invited to jump a shortened course. The fastest round incurring the fewest penalties is crowned the winner.

There are two main types of show jumping competitions. Unaffiliated shows are usually small, local shows at which all horses and riders are welcome to compete. At unaffiliated competitions, the level can range from tiny tots height up to around a metre, with all levels of riders and horses catered for.

Affiliated competitions, run by the British Show Jumping Association (BSJA), require all competitors to pay an annual membership fee. BSJA shows are often considered to be more advanced and offer greater prize money with the chance to compete at national championships. Competitors wishing to experience a BSJA show are able to buy day membership and class tickets. Each ticket allows them to compete in one affiliated class, although they are not entitled to prize money or rosettes.

The types of classes at affiliated shows vary and can become more complex as riders progress through the levels. Generally the class heights are as follows:

British Novice: 0.90m
Discovery: 1.00m
Newcomers: 1.10m
Foxhunter: 1.20m

Other variations of classes can also be held at show jumping competition, such as speed classes, accumulators, puissance (similar to a high-jump) or those involving multiple consecutive rounds.

What equipment is needed?

To compete at any show jumping competition, the rider needs to be smartly turned out wearing the following:
Dark coloured or tweed show jacket
White shirt with a show jumping collar/stock/tie
White/fawn/beige breeches
Dark coloured long boots (pony riders are allowed to wear short boots)
A riding hat conforming to the latest standards.

Generally there are few restrictions on the type of tack and bits allowed in show jumping competitions. Tendon boots are often used on the horse’s forelegs and fetlock boots behind, although many competitors at lower levels use standard brushing boots. Although plaiting is not required, competitors should ensure their horses are smartly turned out.