What is the sport of Combined Driving?

It is very much like the ridden sport of Eventing, but with a carriage behind the horse!

There are 3 separate phases. Each phase tests the training and ability of both horse and driver (the Whip) in different ways.

First day is Dressage, testing balance, flexibility, and submission of the horse as well as the drivers memory of the test, and skills in executing it. Cones, which tests the concentration and self control of both horse and driver. After two days of tough competition. Also Cones, which calls for precision driving between sets of cones laid out in an elaborate course, designed to create pressure and excitement by not knocking any into any cones, thereby accruing demerits, and separating who will win, from who will lose.

Second day is Marathon, testing the horses endurance and stamina over distance, and both horse and drivers ability to use their dressage skills driving through hazards (obstacles) encountered in the last section of the course.

Directions to Agarita Ranch: From Lockhart take Highway 20 West towards Fentress (3.5 miles) to county road 215 (watch for Agarita ranch signs), which is also Westwood Drive, turn left on county road 215 go approximately .6 mile turn right on county road 216 which is also Pin Oak. Last gate on the right is Agarita Ranch 1.0 miles). Interactive Google Map and directions.