Getting Juniors Involved in Combined Driving: Building the Next Generation of Whips

In the world of equestrian sports, few things capture the harmony between horse and human quite like combined driving. With its blend of precision, teamwork, and excitement, it’s often described as the carriage-driving equivalent of eventing — complete with dressage, marathon, and cones phases that test skill, strategy, and partnership.

But as with many traditional disciplines, the future of combined driving depends on one key ingredient: the next generation. Getting juniors involved isn’t just about growing numbers in the sport; it’s about passing down the knowledge, horsemanship, and sense of camaraderie that make driving so special.

Why Combined Driving Is Great for Juniors

Combined driving offers a unique opportunity for young horse lovers to develop a deeper understanding of equine behavior, teamwork, and responsibility. Unlike some equestrian sports that focus solely on the rider, driving introduces a team dynamic — horse, driver, and navigator — all working together toward a shared goal.

• Teamwork and communication: Juniors learn to communicate not just with their horses, but also with their navigators and grooms.

• Problem-solving under pressure: Each phase of competition teaches decision-making, focus, and calmness under stress.

• Horsemanship and respect: Driving emphasizes care, conditioning, and understanding the mechanics of harness and vehicle, building complete horsemen and horsewomen.

Most importantly, it’s inclusive. Juniors who might not yet be comfortable riding independently can still compete and achieve success in carriage driving, often partnering with ponies or miniature horses that suit their size and skill level.

Pathways for Juniors

Many regions now offer junior divisions or youth programs through organizations like the American Driving Society (ADS) and the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF). These programs provide opportunities to learn, compete, and even qualify for international-level events.

• Pleasure shows and training events: Great starting points for juniors to learn in a relaxed setting.

• Combined Tests: These mini-events introduce the structure of competition without overwhelming new drivers.

• Full Combined Driving Events (CDEs): For juniors who are ready for the challenge, CDEs combine all three phases and offer incredible growth and excitement.

Mentorship Matters

Behind every successful young driver is a mentor — a trainer, parent, or experienced whip who took the time to share their knowledge. Encouraging juniors to train alongside experienced drivers builds confidence and ensures safety. Many barns and trainers now offer junior-focused clinics, providing structured learning and a sense of community.

Junior drivers also benefit from peer mentorship. Watching another young driver navigate hazards or polish a dressage test can be inspiring and motivating. When they see someone their own age competing with grace and control, it sparks the realization: “I can do that too.”

How to Get Started

For families or barns looking to introduce juniors to driving:

1. Start small: Begin with ground driving and harness work before adding the carriage.

2. Choose the right partner: A steady, trustworthy pony or miniature horse is ideal for learning.

3. Work with professionals: Seek instruction from a qualified combined driving trainer.

4. Volunteer at events: Even helping at a local CDE offers valuable exposure and understanding of how competitions flow.

5. Keep it fun: Encourage games, obstacle days, and social activities that keep juniors engaged and excited.

The Future of the Sport

If we want combined driving to thrive, we must make it visible, approachable, and fun for young people. From showcasing junior divisions at shows to supporting programs that lower the cost barrier, every effort helps build a brighter future for the sport.

The sight of a young whip confidently guiding a pony through cones or navigating the marathon with a grin reminds us all why we fell in love with driving in the first place — the joy of partnership, the thrill of precision, and the timeless bond between horse and human.

Let’s give juniors the reins — and watch them drive the sport forward.