Equestrian Events

Equestrian events as a competitive sport first began in 1868 at the Royal Dublin Horse Show. However, the actual Olympic History of events involving horses can be traced back to 682 BC when a four- horse Chariot race was run at the Hippodrome during the events at Greece’s twenty- fifth Olympiad.

By the late 1800s, horse shows were regular international events that attracted many spectators. They were viewed as a team sport as horse and rider working together to perform a routine of dressage movements.

In 1912, the three- day event was introduced. This is the triathlon of Equestrian Events combining:

Dressage

Cross Country

Show Jumping.

In the first half of the twentieth century many commissioned officers from the army were allowed to compete in equestrian events as such training techniques as used in horse competition were methods commonly used with military horses.

Horsemanship Training

Preparation for a horse competition involves a combination of training (schooling) and conditioning. Riders have to be excellent in many aspects of horse skills that are developed only over time with much patience. The Equestrian sport develops a team that is certainly unique. Both partners, horse and rider, need to demonstrate superb levels of trust, communication and team work.

Riders need to develop strength as well as technique but the emphasis really is on riding. Excellent benefits can however be gained from a once or twice weekly programme of aerobic exercise like skipping, cycling, rowing or running. In addition a program of strength work for the major muscle groups of the legs, trunk and arms will help especially in the development stage of riding.