Cross country equestrian jumping is an endurance test, and is one of the three phases of the sport of eventing. The other two phases are Dressage testing and Stadium Jumping (in an arena). The highest level of this competition can be seen during Summer Olympic games. It may also be a competition in its own right, known as hunter trials or simply "cross-country" - these tend to be lower level, local competitions. A course like this can also be used for local competitions called a “Pair Pace” where riders get together in teams of 2-4 in an optimal timed event.
The object of the endurance test is to prove the speed, endurance and jumping ability of the true cross-country horse when he is well trained and brought to the peak of condition. At the same time, it demonstrates the rider's knowledge of pace and the use of this horse across country.
Anyone who has been on the trails at Douglas County’s Dawson Butte Open Space should have noticed the many cross country jumps scattered throughout the park. The previous property owners built these and Douglas County has decided to maintain the jumps as a part of the park. In order for equestrians to access the jumps and stay within park regulations of staying on trails park management has established secondary trails with names like “The Playpen,” “The Crib” and “The Manger.” These may sound strange to others, but to cross country riders they are names of types of jumps. Other names for jumps include coop, oxer, coffin and bank.
