Eventing is the most complete form of equestrian sports; the equestrian triathlon. This discipline within equestrian sport is recognized by the FEI (Fédération Equestre Internationale). Eventing originated from a military competition between officers and their horses. They competed in challenges that could occur in the field, which ensured a fair comparison between the horses and cavalrymen of different countries. The modern eventing competition is a combination of a dressage test, a terrain competition and a show jumping course. The rider rides the same horse in all three tests.
The cross country terrain test is the highlight of the event. During this spectacular test, the combinations jump at a rapid pace over natural, colossal obstacles and drive through water fences. Speed, stamina and jumping capacity of the horse play a major role here, but also the ability of the rider to steer his horse through the terrain as efficiently as possible. In the cross country of Maarsbergen Horse Trials, a number of unique places of Maarsbergen Estate are incorporated, so visitors can enjoy sensational equestrian sports.
The cross country usually has 25 to 45 fixed obstacles such as logs, woodpiles, open and dismounted jumps, water fences and ditches.