Combined Driving Events

Where Precision Meets Adventure

Combined Driving Events are one of equestrian sport's best kept secrets — a three-phase discipline that demands athleticism, precision, and an extraordinary partnership between horse and driver.

What Is Combined Driving?

The Complete Test of Horse, Driver, and Vehicle

Combined Driving is the carriage driving equivalent of eventing — a three-phase discipline that tests horse and driver across the arena, the open countryside, and the precision cones course. Whether you're drawn to the elegance of dressage or the raw excitement of the marathon, CDE has something that will take your breath away.

It's a sport for every level — from pleasure drivers taking their first competitive steps to elite four-in-hand teams competing on the world stage. Paula competes at the advanced level and welcomes drivers of all backgrounds into this extraordinary world.

The Competition

Three Phases. One Complete Test.

Phase One

Dressage

The opening phase takes place in a Dressage arena, where horse and driver perform a prescribed test judged on accuracy, harmony, and elegance. A conversation between horse and driver — calm, precise, and beautiful to watch. This is where Paula's fundamentals-based training shines brightest.

Phase Two

Marathon

Driven across distances of 6 to 8 kilometers, horse and driver are challenged in control of pace and speed, agility, obedience, and endurance. Competitors navigate a series of strategically placed obstacles, negotiating a sequence of gates in the correct order and direction — requiring split-second decisions and seamless communication between horse and driver.

Phase Three

Cone Driving

The final phase is a precision test through a course of cones set just wider than the vehicle's wheel track. After the exertion of the marathon, horse and driver must find calm and accuracy. Knock a cone, add penalties. Deceptively simple — and absolutely thrilling under pressure.

Sport & Pleasure

There's a Place for Every Driver

CDE is the competitive pinnacle of carriage driving — but it's far from the only reason to pick up the reins. Pleasure driving is a world of its own — peaceful trail drives, pleasure shows, and the simple joy of being behind a horse in open countryside.

Whether your goal is a ribbon at your first competition or a quiet Sunday morning drive through the fields, Paula's program has a place for you. No experience is too little. No ambition is too big.

Why CDE?

What Makes Combined Driving Unlike Any Other Equestrian Sport

One of the most complete tests in all of equestrian sport

Open to singles, pairs, tandems, and four-in-hand

A welcoming community at every level

Horsemanship, athleticism, and strategy in equal measure

Suitable for sport and pleasure drivers alike

Paula loves introducing new drivers to the sport

Ready to Take the Reins?

Whether you're curious about competing or just want to understand what you're watching, Paula loves talking driving. Get in touch and let's start the conversation.

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