Equestrian:Equestrian authorizations - Driving

Driving

Where it is feasible, safe, or the course allows it, a driving authorization allows you to:

• Drive and participate in non-combat SCA equestrian activities (e.g. skill at arms, games, processions, performances, site rides, etc)
• Drive in non-combat SCA equestrian activities while a passenger wields the weapon(s) or other objects.

Requirements

To authorize for driving, you must demonstrate to the authorizing marshal:

1. Familiarity with the relevant portions of the Society Equestrian Handbook and kingdom-specific equestrian requirements, and the nature of equestrian activities within the Society.
2. Awareness of the risks inherent to equestrian activities, including recognition of how your current skill level relates to horses and equipment you intend to drive, and how your equipment may affect other non-driving horses.
3. Ability to safely control your horse and driving equipment while engaging in SCA equestrian activities, and (as applicable) encumbered by passengers and/or weapons/games equipment.

Driving authorization procedure

1. The marshal will have a conversation with you to determine your familiarity with the rules, the risks, and the nature of SCA equestrian activities.
2. You must demonstrate the knowledge and ability to hitch and harness your horse.
3. You must demonstrate the ability to drive forward, turn, and change directions at:
   1. the walk,
   2. a trot or intermediate gait.
4. You must demonstrate the ability to halt.
5. You will need to demonstrate the correct response to "hold!".
6. You should demonstrate the ability to back. In deep footing, backing may be skipped in the interest of horse wellbeing.