The Olympics are a time of celebration, competition, and unity as athletes from around the world come together to showcase their talents. Among the many sports featured in the Games, equestrian events hold a special place, combining the grace and power of horses with the skill and precision of their riders. However, as former equestrian journalist Sara Lieser discovered during her time as a spectator at the Olympic Games in Paris, the world of equestrian sports is not always easy to navigate.
With years of experience in equestrian journalism and competition, Lieser found herself struggling to keep up with the ever-changing rules and formats of the Olympic equestrian events. From the new two-round show jumping format in eventing to the revised qualification system for dressage individual medals, the complexity of the sport left Lieser and her companions searching for answers and clarity. Despite their love for eventing, they found themselves constantly Googling, discussing, and researching to understand the competitions unfolding before them.
The constant evolution of equestrian sports in the Olympics is driven by a desire to keep the sport relevant and inclusive. With the International Olympic Committee urging for more cost-effective and globally accessible competitions, changes are made to adapt to the evolving landscape of the sport. While some modifications, like the elimination of certain phases in eventing, stick around, others, such as separating individual and team competitions, fade away.
The importance of equestrian sports in the Olympics goes beyond just competition. It serves as a platform to introduce new audiences to the sport and garner support for athletes and horses alike. However, the true essence of equestrian sports lies in the partnership between horse and rider. As athletes strive for excellence, it is crucial to prioritize the welfare and well-being of the horses above all else.
The balance between tradition, competition, and horse welfare is a delicate one. As equestrian sports continue to evolve, it is essential to ensure that any changes made benefit the horses first and foremost. While adapting to meet the criteria set by the IOC is important, it should never come at the expense of the horses‘ health and safety.
As Sara Lieser reflects on her time at the Olympics in Paris, she acknowledges the challenges and complexities of equestrian sports in the Games. While the experience was eye-opening and thought-provoking, it also reinforced the need to prioritize the welfare of the horses above all else. As the world of equestrian sports continues to evolve, it is essential to remember the true essence of the sport – the partnership between horse and rider.
