The beauty of dressage, the thrill of cross country and the precision of show jumping will be showcased at this weekend's Cochrane Horse Trials at the Cochrane and District Ag Grounds, June 24-25.

Spectators are welcome to come enjoy the 'triathalon' of the equestrian disciplines free of charge. There are about 150 competitors expected from across Alberta and parts of British Columbia to display their prowess in the ultimate test of the partnership between a horse and rider.

"It's going to be great and sunny and it's a great opportunity to see all that the Ag Society has to offer," says  Julie Simard, one of the organizers. "It's easy to attend and you can come enjoy it for a few hours or for the whole event. It's quite cool, actually."

On Saturday the competitors will be undertaking a dressage test followed by show jumping rounds. Dressage tests the gaits, suppleness and obedience of the horse through a series of prescribed movements. Show jumping demonstrates the speed, precision and agility of the horses as they navigate obstacles. 

Both Saturday events take place at the lower level of the Ag Grounds between the barns and Hwy. 1A and parking is accessible from Hwy. 1A through the main entrance of the Ag Grounds. There are bleachers and a food truck will be on location. Dressage starts at 8 a.m. and show jumping at 11 a.m.

Sunday's cross-country event starts at 9 a.m. at the Ag Grounds' upper level, accessible by turning left on Range Rd. 43 off Hwy. 22. There, the riders and their horses race the clock and gallop over a variety of obstacles, including water hazards, banks and ditches.

After two days are competing, points are tabulated and awards are present. Cash prizes will be awarded for the top three in each division and ribbons to the top six.

The Cochrane Horse Trial is one of only six held in Alberta annually and it's in its 21st year. That makes it especially attractive to competitiors, who normally compete in all six. A one day trail is slated for Aug. 5 in Cochrane, followed by a trial clinic the following day.