Any pace including canter is allowed in the obstacle itself. This is an exciting spectator sport and courses are now desingned to place the obstacles close together to allow several to be watched from any point, while carriages drive to and from each. Vehicles for Cross Country are sophisticated with disc brakes, torsion bars and dampers and understeer, and in all shapes and sizes but conforming to minimum weights. The final cones phase tests horses fitness and suppleness after the gruelling marathon. 15 or more gates consisting of cones with a balanced ball dislodged at a cost of 5 penalties each, are set on a twisting course for drivers to memorise.
All events are open to the public to watch, often at no charge.
There are also a number of clubs that run smaller events to which you are welcome. Incudes Third Party Insurance, Newsletters, events list etc, keeps you in the know of whats going on if you are planning to move up to competing later. There is usually supporters tent where you can meet the drivers and have a coffee etc and learn about driving. You may once interested want to start helping, and there are courses to train as ground referees, obstacle judges etc, there can even be chances to referee on the pair or team carriages at some events. There are many other activities and most events have catering and a bar and facilities for caravans.