Equestrian:Equestrian authorizations - special - Mounted combat

Mounted combat

The mounted combat program is designed to represent combat as done from horseback. Because incidental strikes to horses will occasionally happen, it is important mounted combatants understand that the force levels and associated armor standards are kept intentionally low.

Armor for SCA ground combat may or may not be suitable for mounted combat or jousting. Any armor intended for equestrian use must be evaluated for its suitability in equestrian martial activities.

Requirements

For you be authorized for mounted combat, you must demonstrate to the authorizing marshal the following:

1. You meet the general riding and weapons and games authorization requirements at a walk and trot (or equivalent gait).
2. The ability to ride in the required armor.
3. The ability to engage and strike an opponent while riding, to control your weapon and force levels, and an awareness of your horse and other horses during movement and strikes.
4. The ability to control your reaction to a stressful environment.
5. An awareness of your horse's reactions and its ability to participate.

Note: Excessive jerking on the reins while fighting, consistently becoming unbalanced, or striking a horse are a few examples of violation of safety while performing mounted combat.

Mounted combat authorization procedure

1. The marshal will have a conversation with you to:
   1. Determine your familiarity with the additional rules, requirements and conventions of mounted combat.
   2. Examine your understanding of your current skill level with regards to mounted combat, armor, weapons, and the horse you are riding that day.
   3. Examine your understanding of the suitability of your horse for this activity, and to recognize when a horse is not reacting well with others and could become a safety issue.
2. You must demonstrate adequate control over your horse and your equipment, showing that you have the ability to:
   1. Safely control your horse while in motion (i.e. ride around another rider, changing directions while wielding a sword).
   2. Safely use a sword/baton to strike another rider from the front, from behind, and from the side.
   3. Demonstrate reasonable targeting accuracy. (i.e. safely strike at another rider without hitting the horse).
3. You must demonstrate your understanding of conventions (target areas, calibration, calling blows). This should include both striking and being struck, while standing still and in motion.