Classic Format Clinic

This clinic is designed to introduce eventers to the Classic Format and give riders hands-on experience with its key components. The Classic Format offers a focused, practical introduction, blending expert talks, hands-on skill work, and a mock endurance day to help riders move confidently into this competition style.

Schedule overview

• Friday: Two sessions (morning and afternoon) Dressage Fix-A-Test, How to do Jog-Outs. Evening talk: Phillip Dutton — Preparing for Your First Classic Format.

• Saturday: Two sessions (morning and afternoon) working in the vet box, pacing for Roads and Tracks, and Steeplechase riding. Evening talk: Hayley Frielick — Using Technology in Your Training.

• Sunday: Culmination — a mock Endurance day that simulates the Classic Format experience from start to finish.

What you’ll learn

• Jog-out procedures: How horses are presented, what judges look for, and tips to pass confidently.

• Vet box work: Efficient, calm handling and protocols for first-opinion vet checks.

• Pacing for Roads and Tracks: Strategies to manage speed and fitness across phases.

• Steeplechase riding: Position, balance, and approaches to maximize speed and safety.

• Dressage Fix-A-Test: A focused ride-through to improve test accuracy and confidence under pressure.

• Technology in training: Practical ways to use devices and data to inform conditioning and performance (Saturday evening).

• Preparation and mindset: Guidance from an experienced competitor on transitioning into Classic Format competition (Friday evening).

Who should attend

• Eventers new to the Classic Format.

• Riders with some experience who want practical drills and simulated competition practice.

• Coaches and support people who will assist in the vet box, pacing, or warm-up areas.

Format and logistics

• Sessions are twice daily Friday and Saturday; bring tack for flatwork, steeplechase, and Roads & Tracks/schooling boots as appropriate.

• Plan to attend the Friday and Saturday evening talks for expert advice and Q&A.

• The Sunday mock Endurance day will require turnout appropriate for longer rides and may include staged vet checks and time-fault scenarios.

What to bring

• Proper tack and safety gear (helmet, body protector).

• Conditioning tack for Roads & Tracks and jumping tack for steeplechase practice.

• Water, snacks, and any personal recovery supplies.

• Any tech devices you use for training if you want help integrating them (Saturday evening session).

Notes

• Sessions are instructional and practical; riders should be prepared for active participation.

• Times and exact session content may be adjusted to match participant levels and weather.

• Questions about specific fitness or horse needs can be addressed during registration or at arrival.