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The WEG Disciplines: Combined Driving and Reining

By Brenna Angel

http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wuky/local-wuky-921745.mp3

LEXINGTON, Ky. – The World Equestrian Games taking over central Kentucky later this month are comprised of eight disciplines designed to test horse and rider.

Over the next several days, reporter Brenna Angel will explore the ins-and-outs of these equine sports, from competition rules to what spectators can expect to see. Today, she talks with experts in driving and reining.

What is Combined Driving?

Combined driving at the World Equestrian Games involves driving four horses and a carriage. The event is basically a triathlon. The first phase of competition is dressage, where drivers take the horses through a series of movements. The second competition of combined driving is the marathon. The marathon is a test of the fitness and endurance of the horses, and their ability to negotiate eight obstacles the marathon course. The final phase of combined driving is the cones competition. Drivers must steer their horses and carriage through several sets cones without knocking off a ball that sits on top of each cone.

What is Reining?

Reining is a western sport generally shown on stock breed horses. Reining is often referred to as western dressage, because horse and rider are judged on a series of maneuvers. The maneuvers include sliding stops, roll backs, spins, and circles.