CONE DRIVING

This phase of the competition, sometimes also called obstacle driving, tests the accuracy and speed of the driver and his horses. A course of up to 20 gates, consisting of pairs of cones, has to be driven within the time allowed. The course is between 500 and 800 metres in distance and the cones are numbered and have to be driven in sequence.

The spacing between the two cones is 20 cm (8 in) greater that the wheel width of the vehicle - that's a clearance of only 10 cm (4 in) on each side. A ball is placed on top of each cone, which will fall easily if the cone is hit by the horse or the carriage wheel.
Penalties are awarded for exceeding the allowed time or for dislodging any of the balls. Further penalties will be given for errors of course or for the groom dismounting. If a driver manages to drive the course within the allocated time and without hitting any cones, he will have driven a "double clear" and will incur no penalties.