MARATHON

The marathon phase of the driving trials consists of five sections (A to E) with compulsory halts in between. Some sections can be driven at any pace, others must be driven at a prescribed pace (e.g. walk). Penalties will be given if this pace not maintained. The total distance of the marathon phase shall not exceed 22 kilometres.

All sections have a maximum time allowed and penalties are awarded if this is exceeded. The time allowed is calculated according to the distance and the type of turnout (e.g. ponies get longer times than horses). Some sections also have a minimum set time. 

A typical marathon timetable for the open pony class is shown below:

There may be a number of compulsory gates on the course, denoted by red and white flags. Competitors failing to drive through these gates in the correct order shall be eliminated.

A veterinary examination may be carried out during the halts, where horses and ponies will be checked for pulse rate, respiration, dehydration or injuries and any which are deemed to be unfit shall not be allowed to continue.

Section E of the marathon course includes up to 8 obstacles (sometimes also called "hazards") which are designed to test the driver's speed and accuracy and his ability to negotiate tight turns and difficult manoeuvres. This is undoubtedly the most exciting part of the Driving Trials competition.

The obstacles are constructed using a variety of natural terrain and man-made materials and each obstacle will include up to 6 gates, flagged A to F. There are also start and finish gates for each obstacle. The object is to drive through the gates in sequence (and in the correct direction) in the shortest possible time. Penalty points are awarded for each second spent in the obstacle and further penalties can be added for dismounting of the groom.