Show jumping glossary: the terms to know

Show jumping has its own vocabulary. Here are the most useful terms for reading classes, standings and reports.

Competition terms

• Clear round: a round with no penalties.
• Penalties: points for knockdowns, refusals or time (see the penalties).
• Jump-off (barrage): a shorter course against the clock among clear combinations.
• Base course: the track the obstacle heights refer to.
• Category: a class identified by height, e.g. C130 (see categories and heights).

Horse and breeding terms

• Partnership: the horse + rider pairing.
• Rideability: how manageable the horse is.
• Studbook: the breeding register (e.g. KWPN, BWP).
• Pedigree: the family tree (see how to read it).
• Damsire: the dam's father.

For competition formats, see time, two phases and jump-off.