How it works

Equestrianism consists of three disciplines: dressage, eventing and showjumping. In dressage the rider has to make the horse perform a series of manoeuvres. The movements are set in a compulsory order for the first two rounds and then, in the third round, performed “freestyle” to music. Competitors are marked on accuracy of movement, calmness, suppleness and flexibility. Riders take on obstacles in showjumping. Time penalties are added if rider and horse fail to clear jumps. Eventing consists of a combination of dressage, show jumping and a cross-country course

Who’s hot

The Dutchman Edward Gal, who was a triple gold medallist at the 2010 World Equestrian Games, will be favourite for the dressage. France’s Kevin Staut will be strong in the showjumping. Germany, the United States and Canada are usually strong competitors in equestrianism at the Olympics

Home hopes

Britain has a strong record in equestrian events at the Olympics although they claimed only two bronze medals in Beijing. The German-born Laura Bechtolsheimer, who is ranked third in the world, will be Britain’s best hope in the dressage. Zara Phillips, the daughter of Princess Anne, will hope for more luck in 2012, having missed the last two Games through injuries to her horse. If she competes, she could challenge for a medal in the eventing

The road to London

• 13-18 September 2011 European showjumping championships. Madrid, Spain
• 1 March 2012 Olympic rankings published, used to allocate qualification places for Great Britain team

The stage

Greenwich Park will host the Olympic and Paralympic equestrian competitions as well as some disciplines from the modern pentathlon

What they say

“I am really excited for 2012. It will be awesome to ride at home, I just have to get there first?

Zara Phillips, Eventing

Did you know?

At the Olympics horses must be at least eight years old for dressage and eventing and nine years old for showjumping

Competition dates

• 28-31 July Eventing
• 2-8 August Dressage
• 4-9 August Showjumping

Ticket prices

Dressage £20-£275

Eventing £20-£150

Showjumping £20-£275

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