8 Equestrianism
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
ªI 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
