Karnataka Equestrian Association
Ancient Cavalry Tradition
A mounted sport of ancient cavalry origin where riders pick up ground targets with a lance at full gallop. One of the most uniquely Indian equestrian disciplines, tent pegging is deeply rooted in the subcontinent's martial heritage and is governed internationally by the ITPF.
Tent pegging requires a rider to gallop at full speed and use a lance or sword to pick up, spear, or cut targets placed on the ground. The sport originated as military training for cavalry soldiers — the ability to lean from a galloping horse and strike a ground target was a critical battlefield skill. Today it is a thrilling competitive sport governed by strict FEI and ITPF rules, combining horsemanship, precision, and athleticism.
Tent Pegging in Karnataka is governed by the Karnataka Equestrian Association (KEA), operating under the technical framework of the Equestrian Federation of India (EFI) and the international rules of the FEI.
Lance, sword, or pistol (in target shooting variants). The lance is used for the primary tent pegging event.
Wooden pegs (25mm × 25mm × 150mm) placed in the ground, which must be carried a minimum distance to score.
Individual lance, team lance (4 riders), sword, and various combination events. Speed and accuracy are both scored.
Points awarded for successfully picking up and carrying the target. Bonus points for clean pegs carried over the required distance.
Follow these steps to enter Tent Pegging competitions in Karnataka under the KEA framework.
Join KEA and obtain an EFI Rider ID.
Train under an experienced tent pegging coach to develop lance technique at the gallop.
Register your horse — tent pegging requires a brave, forward-going horse comfortable at full gallop.
Enter KEA state tent pegging championships through the event prospectus.
Compete in team events — tent pegging has a strong team component making it ideal for club-based participation.
Join KEA and register for upcoming Tent Pegging events in Karnataka.