What is an IBOP? And how do you prepare for it?

On November 29, 2025, the IBOP will be organized again in Lunteren. But what exactly is that, the IBOP?

Ponies shown at the Central judging keur have become, are crown the moment they have obtained at least a B premium in the IBOP. The other way around is also possible: ponies that have passed the IBOP with at least a B, will be at the inspection immediately crown instead of keur.

Individual Usability Examination Pony

The IBOP is a talent test for the (younger) pony. By means of a simple test, the pony's aptitude for the sport is tested. A pony can take the IBOP under saddle or in harness. A maximum of 100 points can be obtained, with 70 points a pony passes.

If the choice is made to have the pony participate under saddle, it must show a dressage test and jump some obstacles. In the riding test, the judges judge the pony on her gaits: walk, trot and canter. In addition, the pony receives marks for her posture, suppleness and impulsion, as well as caution and attitude when jumping.

If the pony is presented in the harness test, both a driving test and a skill test are required. In the harness test, the pony will be judged on walk, trot, canter, attitude, willingness to work, agility and ability as a harnessed pony.

The minimum age of the ponies is 3 years as of Oct. 1 for participation in both the driving and harnessed trials.

Preparing for the IBOP

Many times, the pony is leashed for an occasion such as an IBOP and/or just prepared by then. Then it is certainly no mean feat to take a test in a strange environment. It is therefore advisable to start training in good time and get the pony used to riding in an indoor arena. In addition, if the pony is going to take the riding test, it is necessary to have jumped a practice course a few times, preferably in an indoor arena.

Learn more about the IBOP and download the entry form and relevant tests at the link below:

IBOP