Welcome to the British Tentpegging Association
Ride, Aim, Conquer: Experience the Thrill of British Tentpegging
Tentpegging and Mounted Skill at Arms are the collective name for equestrian sports using lances, swords and guns on horseback. Disciplines are performed at the gallop as individuals, half section pairs and team sections of three or four. Tentpegging is the ultimate test of horsemanship, requiring determination, hand-eye coordination, discipline and a fearless love of speed. Pegs range from three to one inch in diameter. The majority of horses and ponies can be taught to peg and they love it!
Tentpegging is the collective name for mounted skill at arms, based on the cavalry sport of removing wooden 'tent pegs' from the ground on horseback, using a sword or lance at the gallop. The sport is around 2,500 years old, developed by Asian armies who relied on their skill with the lance to defeat their enemies. Today's peggers are competitive, though a little less bloodthirsty!
The British Tentpegging Association is the UK's national governing body for the development of safe participation in the sport for both junior and adult riders. We hold training events, competitions and social events around the UK. We have both civilian and military members who have the opportunity to compete at some of the UK's most prestigious horse shows. We also select teams to represent Great Britain for international competitions at home and overseas.
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Where did it come from?​​
The origin of Tentpegging can be traced to 500 BC Archaeological finds of clay pottery depict pictures of riders on horseback using lances and swords to strike objects at a full gallop. In the Middle Ages knights practice various forms of Tentpegging to prepare themselves physically and mentally for battle. These practice sessions led to fierce rivalry, and soon tournaments were organized to determine the best knight, closely monitored by the ruling king. A well-trained force of knights ensured the king’s position on the throne was not threatened by rivals.
The modern status of Tentpegging was established by the occupying British forces in India in the 19th Century. On returning to England, the sport was introduced to the public, and the first modern day event was held at Hurlingham. Tentpegging was introduced to South Africa by the British forces during the Anglo Boer War
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