Cross country is an equestrian discipline where horse and rider ride outdoors over a long course with natural and fixed obstacles. The course is set across varied terrain such as fields, hills, and open ground, and includes jumps like logs, water, ditches, banks, and solid fences.

Riders complete the course at a steady forward pace, following a set route in order, and aim to finish within the allowed time. The focus is on control, stamina, accuracy, and safely navigating each obstacle while maintaining rhythm throughout the course.

Follow the course in order ━ Riders must complete all obstacles in the correct sequence.

No skipping fences ━ Every jump or obstacle must be attempted unless eliminated or retired.

Obey flags/markers ━ Obstacles are usually marked with flags showing the correct direction (red on right, white on left).

Jump cleanly and safely ━ Riders must take each fence correctly; refusing or running out counts as faults.

Time limit ━ Riders must complete the course within the set time; going over time results in penalties.

Knockdowns/Refusals ━ In some formats, knocking or refusing obstacles adds penalties or may lead to elimination.

Falls = elimination ━ A rider fall or horse fall usually results in immediate elimination for safety.

Stay on course ━ Leaving the marked route or taking obstacles in the wrong order leads to penalties or elimination.

Finish correctly ━ Riders must pass the final finish line to complete the course.