HDT vs CDE

[horsegeeks]

I’ve poked around several places and can’t find a description of an HDT. Apparently in Europe it’s what we call a CDE. However, when I look at the driving calendars in the US the HDT appears to be a one day version of the CDE.

I “thought” I found a description of an HDT last year. If I remember correctly, its the following

• Dressage Test
• Cones Test
• Mini-marathon of about 5 miles.

But that also sounds like some pleasure driving shows I've seen.

Can anyone clarify the difference between an HDT and CDE for me? Ideally, give me a link to someplace I can return to.

THANKS!
Rita

[hitchinmygetalong]

A Horse Driving Trial is basically a Combined Driving Event with Dressage, Cones, and only Section “E” (Obstacles) of the marathon. It is bound by the rules governing Combined Driving Events.

Best source of information is the American Driving Society Rulebook:

http://www.americandrivingsociety.org/ADS_Rulebook.asp

[RidesAHaflinger]

^ADS is a good resource and there is also some info in the Driving FAQ’s that might help:

http://www.chronofhorse.com/forum/showthread.php?t=196535

[pegasusmom]

In eventing terms HDTs are “short format” . CDEs are “long format” .

ADS website has been very helpful for all sorts of things!

BTW five miles for a mini-marathon seems like a lot - more like five kilometers maybe?

[horsegeeks]

THANKS! We’re considering an HDT in the spring. It seems doable based on our current level … and the current amount of mud!

[pegasusmom]

If you are coming our way, our schooling HDT marathons run about 5-6 kilometers (roughly 20-25 minutes of trotting).

[horsegeeks]

I just sent in our membership application. But we can’t make it this weekend to participate (too much mud up here to work anything in weeks ). However, we will try to come down to observe.

The events are on our calendar and we hope to make them WITH Francey!

THANKS!
Rita