Dressage is the first of three phases in eventing competition. It consists of an exact sequence of movements in an enclosed arena and scored by a judge or judge

Cross-country is the cornerstone of eventing and proves the speed, endurance, and jumping ability of the horse over varied terrain and solid obstacles.  Cross-country features solid fences as well as natural obstacles such as water, ditches, drops, and banks. The phase is ridden at a gallop with exact speed requirements varied depending on the level of competition.

Show jumping tests horses and riders precision over a series of fences in an enclosed arena. This final phase tests the stamina and recovery of the horse after the very tiring cross-country phase.