Why is show jumping held after the endurance phase of a three-day event?

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horsemanship An Icelandic horse moving swiftly at the *tölt*, a smooth four-beat, lateral running walk.

In a three-day event, the show jumping competition is held on the final day specifically to demonstrate the horse's fitness and ability to perform after the severe physical demands of the endurance phase.1

While the second day—which includes steeplechase and cross-country—serves as the most difficult test of speed and stamina, the final show jumping round proves that the horse remains sound and capable of navigating obstacles even after such an exhausting effort. Although this final phase is not considered a difficult test of jumping ability in isolation, it is a critical component of the "Complete Competitive Examination in horsemanship" that defines the event.1