The Sport

Carriage Driving is an international equestrian discipline following a similar format to the ridden three day event, except that the horses or ponies are in harness and may be driven singly, in a pair, a tandem, or four-in-hand.

Over three days at Young contestants from all over Australia, plus some from Sweden, Belgium, Argentina and New Zealand, will perform a Dressage Test, complete a 16km Marathon and drive an Obstacle Course accumulating as few penalties as possible throughout the three phases.

The range of skills required by horses and drivers is quite considerable. Elegance and obedience for Dressage, speed and courage for the Marathon, accuracy and cool nerves for the Obstacle Driving.

The time and effort put into training could be daunting if not for the fact that horses and drivers thrive on the 'buzz' of a good Marathon. Spectators share the excitement as contestants strive to post the fastest time through 8 complex and testing Marathon Obstacles.

The modern FEI sport of carriage driving commenced in Australia in 1972 and it has made steady progress towards international standards. Over the years a number of Australian drivers have based themselves overseas in order to compete at the World Championships with leased or borrowed horses and whilst their performances have been commendable, it is widely recognised that Australian drivers will benefit greatly from having regular international competitions in their own country.

By inviting overseas drivers of world championship standard to compete here with horses and carriages generously provided by local drivers, the DILMAH INTERNATIONAL CARRIAGE CLASSIC is making a major contribution to the growth of the sport.

INTERNATIONAL
CARRIAGE CLASSIC