Show jumping: timing, faults, and getting past Novice

Updated Nov 6, 2026 · Management

Quick answer

Three things decide a round: jump timing (Space by default; if you keep knocking rails, turn on the auto-jump accessibility option or accept the jump-off indicator popup), horse stats (Novice and Intermediate need noticeably more strength and endurance than Beginner — players stuck at Novice are usually under-trained, not mistimed), and the time — about 1 penalty point per 4 seconds over the NPC's time, about 4 per fault (community figures). Top three are paid. The hidden achievement That's too easy… is for winning a Low class with a 100/100 horse.

Checklist before a show

Licence passed (Show Jumping 1 in the arena).
Groomed — a dirty horse loses prestige regardless of the result.
Show wear selected under Clothing in your house.
Enough exercise left (Beginner costs ~18, Advanced ~42, community figures).
Parking lot and trailer ready; one town trip a day.

FAQ

What stats do I need for Novice?

Not published. Players in the 'medium SJ' thread report getting stuck until both strength and endurance were well into the second half of the bar; the Show Jumping 3 and 4 courses (arena stages 2–3) are where those gains come from.

Is auto-jump cheating?

It's an official accessibility setting listed in the FAQ; the game still scores time and faults.

Does Maria help?

She comments after a bad jump ('that one needed canter'). Several players call her advice too thin to be worth her wage.

Related guides

Sources

Checked against the current version on Nov 6, 2026 · Medium confidence — consistent community reports, not officially confirmed. Spotted something outdated? Tell us.