Vaulting
Vaulting is a competitive discipline where both dynamic and static
gymnastic elements are combined and performed on a cantering horse. It
requires outstanding physical condition from the vaulter. A harmonious
relationship with the horse is imperative if a display of strength,
coordination, rhythm, suppleness and balance is to be achieved. Vaulting
was recognized as an FEI discipline in 1983.
Vaulters begin working in walk and progress, with training from a
qualified instructor, to be able to execute fantastic freestyle
performances in the canter. Vaulters learn to have the agility and
athleticism of gymnasts, the grace and expression of dancers and the
balance and feel of equestrians. Vaulting exercises include artistic
mounts and dismounts, shoulder stands and handstands on the horse,
carrying or lifting another vaulter, kneeling and standing exercises.
Judging is based on technique, form, difficulty, balance, security and
consideration of the horse. Today, horse, lunger and vaulter are
considered a competitive unit and the performance of each is reflected
in the final score.
The horse is guided on a long rein by a longeur standing on the ground
who ensures that a steady canter is maintained on a circle with a
minimum diameter of 15m. The horse also wears a special surcingle around
his belly which has hand grips and stirrup-like loops for the vaulter’s
feet.
All vaulting competitions are held over two rounds composed of either
one or two tests. During Compulsory Tests vaulters must perform a
number of specific exercises. Freestyle tests, performed to music, allow
vaulters the artistic freedom of building both dynamic and static
exercises around the Compulsory exercises.
Vaulters compete as individuals, pairs (called pas-de-deux) and teams.
- Individual events: Individual competitions are made up of two
rounds. Vaulters perform the Compulsary and Free Tests in the first
round in order to qualify for the final/second round. In CVI1*
competitions these two tests are repeated in the second round. In CVI
2* the second round is made up of a Technical Test and a Freestyle Test.
Individual vaulters have only one minute for their Freestyle
performances. At Championships, men and women compete separately.
- Pairs (pas-de-deux): Two vaulters, a male and a female, perform a freestyle programme held over one or two rounds.
- Team events: A vaulting team consists of a lunger, horse, six
vaulters (male and female) plus one alternate vaulter (optional) who
must enter and line up with the team. Team competitions are made up of
two rounds. During the first round, teams perform a six-minute
Compulsory and a four-minute Freestyle Test in an attempt to qualify for
the second round where they perform a single Free Test. An exercise
will only be scored if two vaulters are in contact with the horse as it
is carried out. No more than three vaulters may be on the horse at any
one time.
To learn more about vaulting go to Vault Canada’s web site: www.vaultcanada.org.
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