The Official International Aerobatic Competition, event by event
An official international aerobatic competition takes place in two rounds. Only the 12 best individual men and the 20 best individual women from the first round are selected to participate in the second. The lengther must put the horse at a working gallop, on a circle of at least 13 meters in diameter. Since 1997, under the combined pressure of the FEI, France and Germany, the horse's rating has taken on more and more importance. Today, 2 of the 6 judges focus solely on the performance of the horse and the length, which represents approximately 30% of the final score.
Individual competition
The senior event, open from 14 years old and with no age limit. In each event, there is a women's classification and a men's classification. The individual events include four programs: – a compulsory program with no time limit, performed once in the first round – a one-minute technical program, performed only in the final – a one-minute free program, performed once in each sleeve.
Team competition
The team competition is mixed. A team consists of seven outfielders. In senior teams there is no age limit. The team events include three programs: – a 6-minute compulsory program – a 4-minute free program, performed once in each round Each of the seven vaulters must perform all the compulsory figures and at least one of the exercises in the free program.
Programs
Each program takes place to music chosen by the vaulter(s).
Required program: 1. Entry; 2. Base; 3. Standard; 4. Windmill; 5. Forward and Backward Scissors; 6. Standing; 7. Amazon
Technical program: This program is judged on the quality of the required technical figures, the originality with which they are introduced and showcased (composition), the rider's mastery of the technique, and their connection with the horse (execution). The five technical figures allow the vaulter to be assessed for relaxation, coordination, flexibility, balance, and strength.
Freestyle program: This is generally the most popular with spectators, as it is often impressive. It is in this program that the vaulter can best express strong emotion, share a personal story with the audience by giving free rein to their imagination, and thus establish a direct and interactive connection with the public. This program must reflect the vaulter's abilities and body control, always in harmony with the horse's movement. Each static exercise must be held for at least three strides of canter to be scored. This program is judged according to its level of difficulty, its composition, and its execution. In team events, the program includes figures performed by one, two, or three vaulters.
