Marathon carriage

Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh popularized sport carriage driving in England in the 1970s, and helped standardize competition rules through the FEI.

They are constructed for safety with a low center of gravity, and a very small turning radius, both which help reduce the chance of overturning.

[1]: 15, 52 Shafts for single-horse carriages are shortened to terminate at the harness saddle instead of reaching the horse's point of shoulder.

[4] Marathon vehicles are constructed with horizontal guard rails (bumper bars) to deflect the carriage from posts and small trees and keep from getting caught on them.

The open back design makes for easier, quicker and safer entry and exit of a groom, who previously entered from the side between the wheels.