Vattenhinder

Vattenhinder, which translates to "water obstacle" in English, is a term used primarily in equestrian sports, particularly in eventing and show jumping. It refers to a specific type of obstacle that a horse must successfully jump over or through as part of a competition course. The most common type of vattenhinder is a water jump, where a trench filled with water is placed in front of a solid fence. The horse must clear both the water and the fence.

The purpose of a vattenhinder is to test the horse's bravery, athleticism, and the rider's skill in preparing and guiding the horse. Horses that are hesitant about water can find this obstacle challenging. The width and depth of the water, as well as the height and type of the fence, are carefully designed to present a fair but demanding test. In eventing, water jumps are a traditional and often iconic part of the cross-country phase. In show jumping, a water jump might be incorporated to add variety and difficulty to the course.

The successful negotiation of a vattenhinder requires the horse to approach with confidence, generate sufficient power to clear both elements, and maintain balance throughout the jump. Riders must communicate clearly with their horses, encouraging them to be bold while ensuring they are well-prepared to make the jump. Refusals, where a horse stops before the obstacle, or penalties for knocking down parts of the fence, can incur time penalties or faults depending on the competition rules.