Despite the popular image of cross-country being a crazed gallop over jumps, the ability to focus and control the speed and impulsion of your mount. Use your ring work to create a forward, straight, balanced approach to your fence. The first time you jump cross-country, you may want to trot some of the fences to make sure your horse is comfortable and understands the concept. Here MP is coming at a nice, uphill canter, and is looking down his line over the fence.