Eventing is one of the most strenuous and noble competitions contended at the FEI World Equestrian Games. Horse and rider are tested over three days through some of the most demanding and potentially disheartening courses and patterns known to the equestrian world in a brave and dashing attempt to overcome all obstacles and come out at the front. Not an easy task by any stretch of the imagination, especially when given the fierce and talented world class competition that they face from opposing horse and rider teams. All begin with a stringent training, working, communication, and strategy plan, but only one can end in front.

Compulsory is anything but elementary during these events, but rather leaning toward precision, exactness, perfect rhythm, and unison in all motions, movements, behaviors, and competitive actions. True horsemanship and sportsmanship are tested through and through, and the term willing horse is given a whole new meaning through the judging formats and rules of this FEI competition. Many adoring spectators say that they can feel the disappointment radiating off of the horse after faults or mistakes, but the general consensus is that each athlete here is a champion in his or her own right.

The willing horse is expected to be a model of patience and calm happiness throughout each and every moment of the competition. All body language is carefully monitored by the judges during the compulsory and freestyle legs of competition, with special emphasis placed on the absence of hesitation, frustration, confusion, refusal, and fear. At all times, the horse is to remain alert and eager to perform, listening carefully for each nuance created by his rider, and using his entire body to tune into the athleticism and suppleness of each action. If poetry in motion is possible, this is as close a glimpse as most will get to it.

Through the collaborative efforts of the hospitality and travel divisions of the games staff, many rental houses are being listed early so that reservations and arrangements for the quickly filling two week event can be made now. If you are thinking about attending the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Kentucky, you will find some great deals and accommodations can be made from the comfort of your home, assuring that you wont miss out on one gait, jump, pirouette, or exciting sliding stop of the competition. Hope to see you here, where blue grass and ancient tradition marry seamlessly for the first time in FEI history.