Question 1

What breeds are common in eventing?

Accepted Answer

Thoroughbreds and Thoroughbred crosses are the backbone of eventing, with OTTBs being one of the most popular paths into the sport at every level. Irish Sport Horses and Irish Draught crosses are well-established for their durability and jumping ability. Warmbloods, particularly Hanoverians, Trakehners, and Sport Horse crosses, have become a major force at the upper levels as breeding programs have prioritized athleticism alongside dressage quality. The best event horse is the one that fits its rider. Prioritize temperament, scope, and training over any particular pedigree.

Question 2

What should I look for when buying an event horse?

Accepted Answer

Start with what fits your riding goals. A horse’s competition record shows where it’s been and how it got there. Consistent completions and progression through the levels reflect a horse that’s been well-produced. A pre-purchase exam with a vet experienced in sport horses is an important step, since eventing is physically demanding and soundness is foundational to a long partnership. Pay particular attention to limbs and soft tissue, as the concussion from cross-country and the demands of galloping on varied terrain add up over time. Beyond the paperwork, the best matches come down to fit. Connecting directly with sellers to learn a horse’s training history, daily temperament, and how it handles different ground conditions is just as valuable as the results.

Question 3

How can I verify an event horse’s competition history?

Accepted Answer

USEA and USEF both maintain competition records showing results by level, including dressage scores, jumping faults, and completion rates. Sellers on Horsely may include official competition documentation with their listing, and you can cross-check results directly against the USEA or USEF database. Ask the seller for the horse’s registered name and USEF number (if applicable) to confirm the record yourself.

Question 4

What does “scopey” or “honest” mean in an eventing listing?

Accepted Answer

Eventing listings use language that reflects what riders value in the sport. Scopey means the horse has athletic range and jumping ability beyond its current level, with room to move up. Honest means reliable and willing, going where the rider points it without hesitation, which is especially valued on cross-country where the fences don’t come down. Forward describes natural impulsion and energy, the kind of horse that covers ground well between fences. Careful means the horse respects the rails in show jumping and tries not to touch them. These terms help you quickly identify which horses match your riding style and goals.

Question 5

Why do ground conditions and recovery matter when buying an event horse?

Accepted Answer

Eventing is the only discipline that tests a horse across three different efforts, often in a single day. That means recovery between phases matters. A horse that comes out of the dressage ring focused, handles the physical demands of cross-country, and still jumps clean in show jumping is showing you something important about its fitness, temperament, and how well it’s been managed. When evaluating a horse, ask the seller how it handles back-to-back efforts and how it recovers after a cross-country run. Ground conditions are also worth discussing. Some horses handle firm ground well, others prefer soft footing, and knowing that preference helps you plan for the venues and conditions you’re likely to compete on. Sellers who can speak to how their horse performs across different footing and competition formats are giving you a fuller picture of what you’re buying.

Eventing Horses for Sale

Prelim Packer - always in the ribbons

Imported holsteiner Prelim packer

About Eventing Horses

Frequently asked questions

Prelim Packer - always in the ribbons

Imported holsteiner Prelim packer