Some are obvious. Some are surprisingly easy to do.
Here, with a little AI assisted summary, are some of the ways a horse and rider combination can find themselves eliminated:
Two refusals or run-outs during your round (jumping height dependent).
Missing the start flags and jumping Fence 1.
Jumping the wrong fence or jumping a fence out of order.
Jumping a fence in the wrong direction.
Missing a fence altogether.
Going the wrong way around a compulsory turning point or not following a compulsory track shown on the course plan.
Getting a combination wrong — after a refusal or run-out, you generally need to start the combination again.
Taking too long — including more than 45 seconds to jump the next obstacle.
Continuing after the bell rather than stopping when required.
Jumping before you’re meant to — including jumping an obstacle in the arena before your round.
Not crossing the finish correctly before leaving the arena.
Your loose horse leaves the arena before the end of the round.
Using your phone, earphones or another electronic communication device in the competition arena during competition.
Jumping with your helmet chin strap incorrectly fastened or unfastened.
A fall of horse or rider during the round.
And one that might surprise you…
Jumping an extra fence after you’ve finished your round.
There are plenty more, but these are some worth remembering before you head through the start flags.
Which one have you seen catch a rider out?
Australian National Jumping Rules 2026 — find Article 263 for eliminations. Link below:
