What type and level of competition?
There are different types of event and these are detailed within the FEI General Regulations (Arts 101-105). However by far the most common are standard international events prefaced by the letters CI (Art 102). The levels of competition are defined separately by each discipline with CI competitions being star rated from 1* to 5* (number of levels varies according to discipline). The star level is determined either by prizemoney levels and/or other criteria established by the respective discipline.
- Jumping - Level of event defined by prizemoney according to the relevant table listed here. Annex VI of the FEI Jumping Rules also summarises the prizemoney levels as well as detailing other requirements and differentiating factors of the various levels of jumping competition. The range of classes that an organiser may consider holding at an event are detailed in the FEI Jumping Rules (Ch. XII).
- Dressage - Events and Competitions are defined in the FEI Dressage Rules (Chapter I, Art 401 to 410)
- Para Dressage - Event categories are defined in the FEI Para Dressage Rules (Art 8402).
- Eventing - Competition star rating is defined by level of difficulty. Types and level of competitions are defined in the FEI Eventing Rules (Arts 501-502, Annexes B-C).
- Vaulting - Star rating defined by the type and level of competitions as detailed in the FEI Vaulting Rules (Art 701).
- Endurance - Level of event defined by the length of ride taking place as detailed in the FEI Endurance Rules (Art 814).
- Driving and Para Driving - Competition star rating is defined by level of difficulty. Types and level of competitions are defined in the FEI Driving Rules (Ch. II).
There are many factors that determine what competitions an Organiser will host, such as:
- The market - what disciplines / competitions do Athletes in the locality / region / country want to take part in
- Budget - some competitions are more expensive to put on than others due to differences in prizemoney, field of play, equipment, venue costs etc
- Ambition - an Organising Committee may aspire to run a higher level of competition which in turn may be linked to factors such as the potential to increase sponsorship income, media interest, spectator numbers etc
- National Federation request - a particular type / level of competition may be necessary to provide Athletes from that country with an opportunity to develop their skills and attain qualifications
The relevant FEI department will always be happy to provide advice on which competitions to organise.
Any questions?
If you have any questions regarding organising FEI competitions or would like further advice not available through this guide please contact your National Federation or the relevant FEI department here.