The competition was assessed by a ground jury composed of five judges placed at locations designated E, H, C, M, and B. Each judge rated the competitors' performances with a percentage score. The five scores from the jury were then averaged to determine a rider's total percentage score.
Sophie Christiansen of Great Britain defended her title, holding off 2008 Champion and compatriot Anne Dunham. This was Christensen's 4th medal in the event, having also won a silver behind Dunham in 2008, and a bronze in 2004.