The REIN BACK CUP: Preliminary, Novice, Elementary and Medium – A True Test of Precision in Working Equitation

Working Equitation is a sport that elegantly fuses classical horsemanship with real-world skills—and few obstacles showcase that harmony more clearly than the Rein Back Cup. A challenge that demands concentration, control, and perfect timing, this obstacle highlights the depth of training between horse and rider.

Obstacle Construction: A Corridor of Focus

The Rein Back Cup consists of two lines of upright posts, spaced 1.5 meters apart to create a corridor. Each line includes three posts, spaced at least 3 meters apart.

At the destination end of the corridor, the cup is placed upside down on the side the rider designates (right side for right handed and left for left handed) there is enough room for the horse to maneuver, but leaves little room for error, especially when moving backward in a slalom move.

The Task: Go Forward with Purpose, Back Up with Precision

This obstacle is only used at the Preliminary and upwards, as it requires refined control and more advanced rider-horse communication.

Depending on the rider’s level, the Rein Back Cup evolves from a straightforward test of straight rein-back (Preliminary and Novice) to a high-level exercise pf rein-back in slalom control.

Performance by Level

• Preliminary & Novice

Riders enter at trot, halt, pick up a cup from a designated post, and then rein back in a straight line between the rows of posts. They halt at the last post and place the cup on, using the same hand they picked it up with.

• Elementary & Medium

Riders enter at canter, halt, collect the cup, and then rein back in a slalom pattern, weaving around the middle post on the same side from which the cup was taken. The rein back must be accurate and balanced, showcasing bend and clear rein back steps.

Regardless of level, the key to success is a calm, square halt, a controlled and accurate rein back, and steady hands while transferring the cup.

Scoring & Judging Considerations

Judges are looking for:

• A prompt, balanced transition to halt

• Straightness (or precision of slalom) in the rein back

• Responsiveness and lightness in the aids

• Accuracy in placing the cup

• Calmness, obedience, and rhythm throughout the obstacle

Any signs of resistance, crookedness, or hesitation will affect the score. This obstacle reveals just how connected a rider is with their horse—not only in motion but in the still, careful moments. Rein-back with one hand done well is a higher score.

What If the Cup Is Missing?

If a previous competitor forgets to replace the cup, the current rider should halt and signal to the steward. The cup will be replaced, and the rider may continue without penalty. As always, poise under pressure is part of the test.

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Why It Matters

The Rein Back Cup is more than a technical exercise—it’s a reflection of the rider’s ability to guide their horse thoughtfully, with subtle cues and patient leadership. For the horse, it’s a challenge to remain attentive and responsive even when moving in reverse, a direction that demands trust in the rider.

This obstacle serves as a powerful reminder: in Working Equitation, brilliance isn’t only about bold moves forward—it’s also about how gracefully you can step back.