It makes sense to begin with the namesake of what we are, and the governing body of our Industry. From it’s origin in 1900, the 3 “Equestrian” Disciplines have always been: Dressage, Show Jumping and Eventing. Now this is not to say that the many other disciplines and those that participate in them, are not Equestrian worthy; it just is the simple fact that these are the original disciplines competed in at Olympic level.
The realisation that there were other disciplines that could be competed at elite level was made however, hence Paraequestrian, Vaulting, Endurance, Carriage Driving and Reining all hold their own High Level Competitions, as well as being included in the FEI World Equestrian Games in their own right.
Australia’s first Equestrian Team competed in the Olympics in 1956 Melbourne; Equestrian events held in Stockholm, Sweden due to Australia’s strict Quarrantine at the time. Australia are also regular competitors at the FEI World Equestrian Games in all disciplines showcased there.
Feature Image courtesy of ag.alltech.com
– Skye Pickering Dip. Horse Business Manahgement