Equestrian Sites Your Online Equestrian Reference ... Home Dressage Showjumping Eventing Horse Health Tack & Training Other equestrian websites ... Organisations and events dedicated to promoting and improving equestrian sports and horse riding. Bloodstock & Sales Equestrian Eventing Dressage & Showjumping Horse Racing Point to Point Polo General & Society There are a great many organisations with equestrian websites dedicated to equestrian sports and to the horse or horse pursuits. We've included below, a few of these with live links to their equestrian websites. Each site opens in a new window and hopefully is stuffed full of the information you are looking for. We have no affiliation with these equestrian websites nor do we benefit in any way, from these links. Bloodstock & Sales - Equestrian websites. Aga Khan Stud - Colonel Hall-Walker, (later Lord Wavertree), a Liverpool businessman who had established his stud at Tully in County Kildare, bred the winners of seven English Classics and, by gifting his bloodstock during World War I, provided the genesis for two National Studs. Yet his greatest contribution to upgrading the thoroughbred was to introduce at the turn of the century a young Indian Prince, the late Aga Khan III, to English racing. Bloodhorse.com - A directory site with horse racing breeding news and lots and lost of ads Coolmore Stud - The Magnier family have been offering Ireland’s and the world’s most discerning breeders access to Champions for generations, employing quite a few of the world’s finest natural horseman in Ireland, the US and Australia. Arqana Deauville Sales - an auction house specialising in sales of horses, both thoroughbreds and trotters, and of paintings and fine art. ARQANA was formed in August 2006 by a group of shareholders active in these fields and it combines all of the activities of the old sales companies Goffs France and the Agence Francaise de Vente de Pur Sang. The shareholders include H.H. The Aga Khan, an owner and breeder whose family have a long history of involvement in racing and breeding, several of France’s leading breeders, as well as ARTCURIAL, France’s leading specialist Art auction house. Doncaster Bloodstock Sales - Doncaster Bloodstock Sales Ltd (DBS) is a registered Thoroughbred Auction House, selling over 3,500 Racehorses a year. The day to day running of the Auction House takes place from the company offices in Hawick, in the Scottish Borders, whilst we run ten sales a year from the new state-of-the-art Sales Complex in Doncaster and one further Sale in The Centaur building at Cheltenham Racecourse. European Bloodstock News - brings you all the daily bloodstock and racing news from around the world in a concise, easy-to-read format. It is available within hours of the day’s racing ending in Europe and is a vital tool for anyone who has a professional interest in the breeding industry. As such, it is highly recommended by the British Thoroughbred Breeders Association. Goffs Ireland - Goffs bloodstock sales is an Irish equestrian auction house dealing in high end sales, including The Million - It is no coincidence that Goffs sold the highest priced yearling in Europe in 2006 at €2 million, while the average price grew 17% However the true measure of the sale’s success is this: Since the introduction of the Goffs Million in 2005, average sales have increased by 34% and turnover 173%. Juddmonte Farms - The Juddmonte Farms Group consists of three properties in the USA and six properties in England and Ireland. Juddmonte is one of the leading breeders in the world and have to date bred 68 individual Group/Grade winners. Juddmonte Farms race all their homebred progeny in Khalid Abdullah’s colours (green, pink sash and cap, white sleeves). These colours have been carried by some notable horses over the past 24 years. Keeneland USA - Keeneland is unique in that it is both a Thoroughbred racetrack and an auction company. Founded as a model racetrack, they seek to continually improve Thoroughbred racing while at the same time preserve its finest traditions. That philosophy has guided them for more than 70 years. International equestrians gather annually for their spring and fall race meetings, which offer world-class racing in one of sports' most beautiful settings. Kiltinan Castle Stud - Kiltinan was established as a stud in 1982 by Magee and Ogden White. In the ten years prior to 1993, the Whites had great success both in the sales ring and on the race track. They bred two group one winners, Sutton Place winner of the Coronation Stakes and Ivyana who won the Italian Oaks. They also won the Irish Oaks with Give Thanks. In 1992 Kiltinan topped the Houghton Sales when selling Falling In Love by Sadlers Wells ex Ivy for 430,000 gns. National Stud - The National Stud is the showcase for British Thoroughbred breeding. It comprises over 500 acres of prime pastureland on the edge of Newmarket, headquarters of racing in the UK. Its facilities include accommodation for eight stallions and up to 200 mares in nine separate yards Tattersalls Sales - Europe's Largest Bloodstock Auctioneers and the world's oldest, dating back to 1766. From Park Paddocks in Newmarket, Tattersalls offers more than 5,000 thoroughbreds each year. The nine different sales include market leaders in every category and feature some of the finest thoroughbreds to be found anywhere in the world. Thoroughbred Breeders Association - The Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association is a registered charity, which was formed in May 1917 and is the only official body representing Thoroughbred Breeders in Great Britain. The TBA has always been actively involved in the broad range of issues affecting its members, all of which have a critical bearing on the health and wealth of British Thoroughbred breeding Thoroughbred Times - The Thoroughbred Times Co. Inc. publishes THOROUGHBRED TIMES, a weekly news magazine based in Lexington, Kentucky, written for those involved in Thoroughbred racing and breeding, plus for racing fans. THOROUGHBRED TIMES publishes the annual Stallion Directory, which is mailed to all subscribers to the weekly magazine the first week of December. Watership Down Stud - Watership Down Stud was founded by Lord and Lady Lloyd-Webber in 1992. Set in the rolling downs of the Hampshire countryside their vision was to build a stud that would produce top quality thoroughbreds that they would go on to race and breed from. Weatherbys Bloodstock Reports - Weatherbys Bloodstock Reports (WBR) is an Internet based service enabling you to access the extensive Weatherbys database for equestrian breeding, horse racing and horse sales information whether at home, in the office or wherever you have Internet access. Equestrian Eventing Sites ... Badminton Horse Trials - is one of the toughest and most exciting equestrian events - the pinnacle of the world’s 3-Day-Event calendar. As the name suggests horses and riders complete the competition over 3 days, each day consisting of a different discipline or phase. Horses and riders must complete a dressage test demonstrating Obedience, Discipline, Accuracy and Elegance. They need to be fit and athletic to complete a 4 mile cross country ride jumping several solid man-made and natural obstacles within a set time. Finally they must complete a course of show-jumps designed to test their agility and accuracy at speed. Blair Castle International Horse Trails - the ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl. The castle enjoys one of Scotland’s finest settings in the heart of Highland Perthshire. The three-day event provides a comprehensive test of all round ability for horse and rider. The sport was originally developed as a military event, drawing on the requirements for an Officer’s charger – steadiness on parade, the ability to cross the country at speed in battle and the fitness needed to carry on with duties the following day. The modern sport has evolved from these original requirements to the three modern-day disciplines that we see today – dressage, cross country and show jumping. In order to succeed at International level, riders and their horses must be highly skilled in all three disciplines. Blenheim Horse Trials - The Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials is one of the world's premier three star three day events. Set in the magnificent grounds of Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, and with the Palace as the backdrop for the main arena activities, the horse trial offers a fantastic opportunity to see some of the world's finest event riders and horses compete against one another in a truly spectacular location. British Eventing - Governing body for the sport of Eventing (combining Dressage, Show Jumping and Cross-Country) in Great Britain. Eventing is made up of three phases, usually undertaken in one day. At the lowest level (Intro) you will be expected to complete a simple dressage test lasting about five minutes, involving basic walk, trot and canter movements. Next is show jumping, comprising 8 – 10 fences up to 0.90m, then the cross-country course with 15 – 20 fences up to 0.90m in height. There are five levels and you would probably start with Intro or Pre-Novice (PN) and then progress to Novice (N), then Intermediate(I) and possibly Advanced (A). Burghley Horse Trials - It was in 1961 that the Marquess of Exeter, on hearing that the autumn three-day event at Harewood could no longer be held, invited the British Horse Society to transfer the event to his estate. In its second year, 1962, Burghley ran the F.E.I.'s European Championship and this was the beginning of a remarkable record. No other international horse trials site has staged as many Championships, a record ten in all including the first World Championship in 1966. Chatsworth Horse Trials - Chatsworth provides one of the country's most spectacular settings for a horse trials, with the cross-country course providing two days' great viewing as it winds around the beautiful park on the banks of the river Derwent. The horse trials, which has the Duchess of Devonshire as President, is now firmly established as a diary must for all the top international riders, with the prestigious World Cup qualifier class on Sunday being a focal point. Gatcombe Park - Hosting The Festival of British Eventing - a unique event that incorporates the British Championships of the three levels of Eventing - Novice, Intermediate & Advanced (also known as the British Open Championships). Weston Park Horse Trials - Situated on the Shropshire/Staffordshire border, the House was built in 1671 and has been the ancestral home of the Earls of Bradford. Today the House and Park is a Charitable Foundation, the family collections of porcelains, antique furniture and portraits are available for all to enjoy. The ongoing restoration and maintenance is financed by events such as the international horse trials. Equestrian, Dressage & Showjumping websites. British Dressage - the official website of British Dressage. Many people are unaware that you don’t need to be a British Dressage (BD) member to enter the open section of preliminary classes at affiliated dressage competitions. British Equestrian Trade Association - BETA is a world-renowned trade association of professional companies. Set up to serve the best interests of the equestrian industry, the individual rider and its members.Since 1979, BETA has launched many initiatives, to the benefit of all in the equestrian world. Some of these include: Encouraging professionalism throughout the trade -Establishing safety standards - Providing training courses and information leaflets - Commissioning in-depth research - The promotion of riding British Equistrian Federation - the recognised governing body of horse sports in the UK. Through its sixteen members the BEF represents and works to promote the interests of the 4.2 million riders and carriage drivers in Britain, under its mission statement 'More people, more horses, more places, more medals'. British Show Jumping Association - In 1923 the British Show Jumping Association was formed with its first President Lord Lonsdale. Lt Colonel Charles (Taffy) Walwyn was appointed Chairman and held the position for 15 years, was President from 1945-1956, and was then made Honorary Vice President. The appointed secretary was Phil Blackmore (who was later to become a course builder and designed the courses for the Victory Show at the White City in 1945). There were 197 Members of the Association recorded. In 1924 the BSJA membership increased to 277 Members. 1925 – The BSJA officially recognised as a company and incorporated in to the companies act. Hickstead - Hickstead is synonomous with showjumping. As host to the British Grand Prix and the only Samsung Super League with FEI Competition in the British Isles, it is the home of British showjumping. Founded in 1961 by Douglas Bunn, Hickstead has come to represent more than just showjumping however, and as it approaches its 50th birthday is equally as renowned for polo, showing, dressage, driving and even eventing! Horse of the Year Show - Before Captain Tony Collings came up with the idea for Horse of the Year Show there was no special event to mark the end of the equestrian season - he believed that there was a need for a climax, a culmination of the year, a champion of Champions show. Indeed there was, for his idea was picked up by the then Chairmen of the British Show Jumping Association and British Horse Society Colonel Mike Ansell and Colonel VDS Williams. Olympia Horse Show - In 1907, the First Royal International Horse Show took place in The Grand Hall Olympia. Lord Lonsdale was the driving force behind the show in 1907. In 2000 Lorenzo - ’The Flying Frenchman’, returned to the famous Great Hall. The same year that the Kings Troop, ‘Jumped the Gun’, the Shetlands took the arena by storm and every time the Dog Agility started they were greeted with the chant…Who Let the Dogs Out? UK Polo Crosse Association - What is Polocrosse? As the name implies, it is a combination of polo and lacrosse. It is played outside, on a field, on horseback. Each rider uses a stick to which is attached a racquet head with a loose, thread net, in which the ball is carried. The ball is made of sponge rubber and is approximately 4" across. The objective is to score goals by throwing the ball between your opponent's goal posts. Horse Racing - equestrian websites British Horseracing Board (BHB) - the official website of the British Horseracing Authority, containing a wide range of information on British racecourses, horseracing tickets, major events, promotions, competitions, betting, race results, ratings, going reports, non-runners, racehorse ownership, breeding, careers in racing, sponsorship, news, media resources, the Orders and Rules of Racing and much more. British Racing School - The British Racing School was established in 1983. It is owned by a Charitable Trust and therefore any income generated is re-invested back into the School. The original aim of the School was to provide purpose built facilities to promote and encourage young people who had the potential to ride as professional jockeys. Since then, the School has developed and flourished to its current position as the Centre of Excellence for training in the racing industry, providing a whole range of different courses and training. Cheltenham Racecourse - National Hunt: Left-handed oval course with the last 4 furlongs uphill all the way. Fences are generally fair but the open ditches are wider than usual Injured Jockeys Fund - The IJF has long been blessed in its voluntary work force - as indeed it has in the calibre of the Trustees, which over the years have included Lester Piggott's wife Susan, Bob McCreery, Dick Saunders (the oldest man to ride a Grand National winner), John Winter (Fred's trainer brother) and former Royal jockey Bill Smith, while the current Trustees include, amongst others, Brough Scott (who has done a sterling 25 years), Peter Scudamore and Jack Berry. National Horse Racing Museum - Welcome to the story of the people and horses involved in racing from its Royal origins to Lester Piggott, Frankie Dettori and other modern heroes. Highlights include: the head of Persimmon, a great Royal Derby winner in 1896; a special display about Fred Archer, the late Victorian jockey who committed suicide, which features the pistol he used to take his life; and the colourful jackets of 'Prince Monolulu', the 1950's tipster. National Trainers Federation - The National Trainers Federation (NTF) is the professional body for licensed racehorse trainers in the UK, 94% of whom are members. It promotes their interests through representation in racings political corridors of power and by providing a range of services and publications. Racing Post - The online home of the horse racing bible. Although the vast majority of the site is free some aspects are subject to a charge e.g. pdf reports, book purchases and Racing UK video streams. These are clearly marked and require that you confirm you to register and confirm your intention to make a purchase prior to your betting account being debited. The Jockey Club - Founded over 250 years ago, the Jockey Club remains at the heart of British racing. The Club was founded around 1750 by a group of gentlemen brought together by their shared passion for and commitment to horseracing. Initially meeting at the ‘Star and Garter’ in Pall Mall in London, the Club soon relocated to Newmarket, and before long moved to the site of the current Jockey Club Rooms in the High Street. The Jockeys Room - The AtoZ of horse racing jockeys. From Asmussen to Velazquez, you can find Biographies, Photos, Stats, News, Links, Jockeys' Birthdays, Photo Galleries, Voting Panels, Jockeys' Classification and UK Racecourse Maps amongst the content of this site. Weatherbys Online - Weatherbys provides British Horseracing with its central administration, acts as its bank and maintains the founding Thoroughbred breed register. But there is much more to it, and the website outlines the full range of services. Point to Point - equestrian websites Irish Point to Point - The home of Irish Point to Point. As steeplechasing become more popular during the 1800's many hunts organised their own race meetings. The Ward Union raced at Fairyhouse and the Kildare Hunt at Punchestown, both places are steeped in history, the Meath venue continues to host The Irish Grand National, and the Kildare course is famous the world over for the La Touche Cup and the Ladies Cup over the Banks course. Jumping for Fun - Comprehensive point to point website with plenty of information. Menu system is a little haphazard but a popular point to point site nonetheless. Pointing Yorkshire - Point to Point site that covers the Yorkshire area. All races are run over three miles and a minimum of eighteen fences. Races for four/five year olds are run over two miles - four furlongs at some meetings. In Yorkshire we have the THE GRIMTHORPE CUP (CLICK ABOVE FOR SHORT HISTORY) run over four miles and one furlong. Courses are layed out in parks and over farm land. No racecourse is used in Yorkshire. All meetings have at least six races. Polo - equestrian websites. Ascot Park - Ascot Park Polo Club, set in 120 acres of magnificent rural countryside near Windsor and Ascot, is conveniently located only 40 minutes from London, and 15 minutes from Heathrow Airport. See map ... Established in 1976, Ascot Park is the largest Polo Training Academy in the world, teaching over 2,500 people to play each year using only HPA accredited instructors. Cirencester Park - The Oldest Polo Club In The UK, Founded In 1894. The club is set amid 3,000 acres of parkland and woodland on one of England's most beautiful estates. Our number 1 ground is the famous Ivy Lodge ground, often said to be "the best all weather ground in England". We also have a further three grounds in the Park and two at Aston Down. All the match grounds are boarded and have Display Clocks Cowdray Park - With a long and illustrious history, Cowdray Park is recognized worldwide as the Home of British Polo. Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty within Viscount Cowdray’s 16,500 acre estate in West Sussex, the game of polo has been played at Cowdray for close on a century – the first competitive tournaments being recorded in 1910. By the 1920s a whole series of competitions with dedicated cups and trophies was firmly established, although the sport in the UK was to all but die out during the Second World War. Hurlingham - The Hurlingham Polo Association (HPA) is the governing body of polo in the UK, Ireland and many other countries throughout the world. As such, it is responsible for the regulations and rules under which the game is played. This includes the handicapping of any one playing in the U.K. or Ireland. The object of the HPA is to further the interests of polo generally and support by all possible means the common interests of its affiliated clubs and associations. General Society & Membership - Equestrian Websites British Horse Society - The British Horse Society was founded in 1947 with the amalgamation of two organisations - the Institute of the Horse and Pony Club, and the National Horse Association of Great Britain. The BHS is a registered charity - number 210504 - and its activities are overseen by the Charity Commissioners. The Patron of the Society is Her Majesty The Queen. British Horseball Association - Horseball pits four players, who can be of either sex and any age over 8, against each other. They compete in halves of 10 minutes each on a pitch that is no more than 70 metres by 30 metres. The size of the horseball pitch means that players are always in close contact, much as in the forward play in rugby, and ensures that the game is played in short, exciting bursts. The aim of the game is to win the ball, make a minimum of three consecutive passes of the ball between at least three team-members, and to shoot it through a hoop 1 metre in diameter and 3.5 metres off the ground. British Veterinary Association - The British Veterinary Association represents the veterinary profession and helps members fulfil their professional roles. It is the national representative body for the veterinary profession with over 11,000 members and promotes and supports the interests of its members, and the animals under their care. DEFRA Horse page - Defra's gateway to horse issues in Government. Defra works for: the good of horses - people who ride, own, or work with horses; and the sustainable benefits which horses bring to economies and communities. We aim to supply you with up-to-date and comprehensive pages that will provide easy access to information on Government equine policy and the Horse Industry Endurance GB - Endurance GB The Competitive Long Distance Horse Riding Society for England and Wales. "Our mission is to promote and enhance the sport of Endurance (Competitive Long Distance) Riding within the United Kingdom, by providing competition, training and development opportunities that will appeal to all levels of rider from beginner to world class winner". Equine Grass Sickness Fund - The Equine Grass Sickness Fund is a registered charity dedicated to supporting and advancing research into grass sickness and further improving the treatment of chronic cases. Grass Sickness, a devastating disease first seen in horses in Angus, Scotland around 1907, remains one of the great unsolved mysteries, and consequently one of the most feared by horse owners. The Arab Horse Society - The Arab Horse Society is the United Kingdom breed authority for the registration, promotion and welfare of the Arab horse. Founded in 1918, the Society is a registered charity and promotes the breeding and importation of Pure Bred Arabian horses and to encourage the wider use of Arab blood in light horse and pony breeding. The Society publishes Pure Bred Arab and Anglo Arab Stud Books and maintains a register for Part Bred Arabs. It also operates a Premium Scheme to promote the use of Arab blood in performance horses. The Association of British Riding Schools - The ABRS has Britain's longest established riding school approval scheme (since 1954). It is the only organisation solely representing professional riding school proprietors and is thus ideally placed to assist and guide young people seeking careers with horses. It has a wide ranging examination and testing system which enables teenagers to build up worthwhile gradings and certificates in preparation for leaving school and taking up full time training. The British Equine Veterinary Association - BEVA is an association for veterinary surgeons who are interested in horses. Membership offers a range of benefits. BEVA holds meetings at which the latest information on equine matters is presented. The British Horse Driving Society - Whatever your interest - pleasure driving or competing, singles, pairs or multiples - The British Driving Society is here to help and encourage you. Local Area Commissioners are on hand to give you guidance. Whether you are a beginner or need to brush up on your technique, the British Driving Society has a panel of qualified instructors. The British Horse Driving Trials Association - Anyone who is interested in carriage driving, particularly if they wish to compete, should consider joining the British Horse Driving Trials Association. Among many membership benefits are - Members' Personal Liability insurance cover, eligibility to drive or groom at National driving trials, information packed yearbook, BHDTA clinics with the country's top driving experts and help, advice and information from the BHDTA driving committees. The Pony Club - The Pony Club in an international voluntary youth organisation for those interested in ponies and riding. It is the largest association of riders in the world. It is represented in no less than 14 countries and has a membership exceeding 110,000. The Shire Horse Society - A comprehensive listing of SOCIETY SHOWS AND EVENTS including affiliated Society Shows around the country. A HERITAGE section to learn about the history of the Shire Horse, with details of the development of the breed and its role in modern day society. Complete BREED STANDARD of points for stallions, mares and geldings. Helpful REGISTRATION GUIDE for breeders and owners with sections on DNA sampling and a full listing of fees UK Chasers & Riders - From very small beginnings in 1987 when UK Chasers was first dreamt up around a farmhouse kitchen table it has grown into a bigger and more diverse organisation than anyone could have imagined! UK Chasers - gives access to 40 (and growing) farm based off road riding and schooling courses. Over 140 miles of maintained grass tracks with over 1000 properly built optional jumps. UK Riders - gives you eligibility to Enter The Challenge, an annual national competition series in dressage and show jumping for unafiliated riders culminating in the prestigious National Final, which is held in the centre of the country during the Autumn. The Side Saddle Association - In 1974, Janet Macdonald and Valerie Francis wrote a letter to “Horse & Hound” hoping to gather a band of like-minded enthusiasts to keep alive a dying art. From this, the “Side Saddle Association” was born and over the years has become respected throughout the UK and abroad, evolving into the Association we know today, with over 1200 members, including Junior and Overseas members. Home Page » Equestrian News » Equestrian Websites Horse Riding In ... England Scotland Wales USA Equestrian Articles Equestrian Articles Equestrian Websites Equestrian Info ... Equestrian Classifieds Equestrian Directory Equestrian Events Equestrian Blog Tack & Togs Site Info ... Sitemap Equestrian Glossary Link to Local Riding Saddles Rugs & Tack Looking for quality new and used Jumping Saddles or dressage saddles . Pay less for good quality Jodphurs and Breeches and make sure you and your horse always look the part. Find the best prices for turnout rugs or stable rugs , in our localriding tack shop. Contact Us Terms of Use Privacy Statement Making A Website Copyright © 1997-2010 Local Riding. All rights reserved. || Equestrianism From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation , search For the Roman order, see Equestrian order . This article needs additional citations for verification . Please help improve this article by adding reliable references . Unsourced material may be challenged and removed . (October 2008) A young rider at a horse show in Australia Equestrianism (from Latin equester, equestr-, horseman , horse ) [ 1 ] more often known as riding , horseback riding (American English) or horse riding (British English) [ 2 ] refers to the skill of riding, driving, or vaulting with horses . This broad description includes the use of horses for practical working purposes, recreational activities, artistic or cultural exercises, and competitive sports . Contents 1 Overview of equestrian activities 2 History of horse use 3 Horse racing 3.1 Types of horse racing 4 Olympic disciplines 5 Haute École 6 Horse shows 7 "English" riding 8 "Western" riding 9 Rodeo 9.1 Timed events 9.2 Roping 9.3 "Rough Stock" competition 10 Harness 11 Other equestrian activities 11.1 Arena sports 11.2 Horse sports that use cattle 11.3 Defined area sports 11.4 Cross-country sports 12 Health issues 12.1 Mechanisms of injury 12.2 Types and severity of injury 12.3 Riding astride 13 Criticism of horses in sport 14 Horse riding on coinage 15 See also 16 References 17 External links [ edit ] Overview of equestrian activities A stunt rider at a Devon agricultural show A young Tibetan rider. Horse riding is an essential means of transportation in parts of the world where the landscape does not permit other means Horses are trained and ridden for practical working purposes such as in police work or for controlling herd animals on a ranch . They are also used in competitive sports including, but not limited to, dressage , endurance riding , eventing , reining , show jumping , tent pegging , vaulting , polo , horse racing , driving , and rodeo . (See additional equestrian sports listed later in this article for more examples.) Some popular forms of competition are grouped together at horse shows , where horses perform in a wide variety of disciplines. Horses (and other equids such as mules and donkeys ) are used for non-competitive recreational riding such as fox hunting , trail riding or hacking. There is public access to horse trails in almost every part of the world; many parks, ranches , and public stables offer both guided and independent riding. Horses are also used for therapeutic purposes, both in specialized paraequestrian competition as well as non-competitive riding to improve human health and emotional development. Horses are also driven in harness racing , at horse shows and in other types of exhibition, historical reenactment or ceremony, often pulling carriages . In some parts of the world, they are still used for practical purposes such as farming . Horses continue to be used in public service: in traditional ceremonies (parades, funerals), police and volunteer mounted patrols, and for mounted search and rescue . [ edit ] History of horse use Main articles: Domestication of the horse and Horses in warfare See also: Horses in the Middle Ages Though there is controversy over the exact date horses were domesticated and when they were first ridden; the best estimate is that horses first were ridden approximately 4500 BC. Indirect evidence suggests that horses were ridden long before they were driven. There is some evidence that about 6,000 years ago, near the Dneiper River and the Don River , people were using bits on horses, as a stallion that was buried there shows teeth wear consistent with using a bit. [ 3 ] However, the most unequivocal early archaeological evidence of equines put to working use was of horses being driven. Chariot burials about 2500 BC present the most direct hard evidence of horses used as working animals . In ancient times chariot warfare was followed by the use of war horses as light and heavy cavalry . The horse played an important role throughout human history all over the world, both in warfare and in peaceful pursuits such as transportation , trade and agriculture . Horses lived in North America, but died out at the end of the Ice Age . Horses were brought back to North America by European explorers, beginning with the second voyage of Columbus in 1493. [ 4 ] [ edit ] Horse racing Main articles: Horse racing , Harness racing , and Parimutuel gambling Humans appear to have long expressed a desire to know which horse (or horses) were the fastest, thus horse racing has ancient roots. Gambling on horse races appears to go hand-in hand with racing and has a long history as well. Thoroughbreds have the pre-eminent reputation as a racing breed, but other breeds also race. [ edit ] Types of horse racing Under saddle: Thoroughbred horse racing is the most popular form worldwide. In the UK, it is known as flat racing and is governed by the Jockey Club in the United Kingdom. In the USA, horse racing is governed by the Jockey Club of North America. Steeplechasing involves racing on a track where the horses also jump over obstacles. It is most common in the UK, where it is also called National Hunt racing. American Quarter Horse racing—races over distances of approximately a quarter-mile. Seen mostly in the United States, sanctioned by the American Quarter Horse Association . Arabian horses , Akhal-Teke , Appaloosas , American Paint Horses and other light breeds are also raced worldwide. Endurance riding , a sport in which the Arabian horse dominates at the top levels, has become very popular in the United States and in Europe. The Federation Equestre International (FEI) governs international races, and the American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) organizes the sport in North America. Endurance races take place over a given, measured distance and the horses have an even start. Races begin at 20 miles (32 km) and peak at 100 miles (160 km). especially the Tevis Cup . Ride and Tie (in North America, organized by Ride and Tie Association). Ride and Tie involves three equal partners: two humans and one horse. The humans alternately run and ride. In harness: Standardbred horses race in harness with a sulky or racing bike. The United States Trotting Association organizes harness racing in the United States (the horses may trot or pace). Harness racing is also found throughout Europe, New Zealand and Australia. [ edit ] Olympic disciplines Main article: Equestrian at the Summer Olympics Equestrian events were first included in the modern Olympic Games in 1900. By 1912, all three Olympic disciplines still seen today were part of the games. The following forms of competition are recognized worldwide and are a part of the equestrian events at the Olympics: Dressage ("training" in French ) involves the progressive training of the horse to a high level of impulsion , collection , and obedience. Competitive dressage has the goal of showing the horse carrying out, on request, the natural movements that it performs without thinking while running loose. One dressage master has defined it as "returning the freedom of the horse while carrying the rider." Show jumping comprises a timed event judged on the ability of the horse and rider to jump over a series of obstacles, in a given order and with the fewest refusals or knockdowns of portions of the obstacles. Eventing , also called combined training, horse trials, the three-day event, the Military, or the complete test, puts together the obedience of dressage with the athletic ability of show jumping, the fitness demands the cross-country jumping phase. In the last-named, the horses jump over fixed obstacles, such as logs, stone walls, banks , ditches , and water , trying to finish the course under the "optimum time." There was also the 'Steeple Chase' Phase, which is now excluded from most major competitions to bring them in line with the Olympic standard. There is also one equestrian discipline in the Paralympics : Para-Dressage is conducted under the same rules as conventional Dressage, but with riders divided into different classes based on the severity of their disabilities. The additional non-Olympic events sanctioned by the FEI as international disciplines are: combined driving ; endurance ; horseball ; reining ; tent pegging ; and vaulting . These events are recognized internationally and are part of the FEI World Equestrian Games every four years, and hold their own individual World Championships in other years. [ edit ] Haute École Main article: Classical dressage The haute école ( F. "high school"), an advanced component of Classical dressage , is a highly refined set of skills seldom used in competition but often seen in demonstration performances. Leading haute ecole demonstration teams include: The Cadre Noir in Saumur , France . The Spanish Riding School in Vienna , Austria . The Escola Portuguesa de Arte Equestre in Queluz, Portugal . Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art in Jerez de la Frontera , Spain . [ edit ] Horse shows Main article: Horse show Horse shows are held throughout the world with a tremendous variety of possible events, equipment, attire and judging standards used. However, most forms of horse show competition can be broken into the following broad categories: Equitation , sometimes called seat and hands or horsemanship , refers to events where the rider is judged on form, style and ability. Pleasure, flat, or under saddle classes feature horses who are ridden on the flat (not jumped) and judged on manners, performance, movement, style and quality. Halter, in-hand breeding, or conformation classes, where the horse is led by a handler on the ground and judged on conformation and suitability as a breeding animal. Harness classes, where the horse is driven rather than ridden, but still judged on manners, performance and quality. Jumping or Over Fences refers broadly to both show jumping and show hunter , where horses and riders must jump obstacles. [ edit ] "English" riding Main article: English riding See also: Hunt seat , Show hack , Show hunter , Show jumping , Dressage , Riding Horse , and Saddle seat In addition to the classical Olympic events, the following forms of competition are seen. In North America they are referred to as " English riding " in contrast with western-style riding; elsewhere in the world, if a distinction is necessary, they are usually described as "classic riding": Hunt seat or Hunter classes judge the movement and the form of horses suitable for work over fences. A typical show hunter division would include classes over fences as well as "Hunter under Saddle" or "flat" classes (sometimes called "hack" classes), in which the horse is judged on its performance, manners and movement without having to jump. Hunters have a long, flat-kneed trot, sometimes called "daisy cutter" movement, a phrase suggesting a good hunter could slice daisies in a field when it reaches its stride out. The over fences classes in show hunter competition are judged on the form of the horse, its manners and the smoothness of the course. A horse with good jumping form snaps its knees up and jumps with a good bascule . It should also be able to canter or gallop with control while having a stride long enough to make a proper number of strides over a given distance between fences. Eventing , show jumping , and dressage , described under "Olympic disciplines," above are all "English" riding disciplines that in North America sometimes are loosely classified within the "hunt seat" category. Saddle seat , is a primarily American discipline, though has recently become somewhat popular in South Africa , was created to show to best advantage the animated movement of high-stepping and gaited breeds such as the American Saddlebred and the Tennessee Walker . Some Arabians and Morgans are also shown saddle seat in the United States. There are usually three basic divisions. Park divisions are for the horses with the highest action. Pleasure divisions still emphasis animated action, but to a lesser degree, with manners ranking over animation. Plantation or Country divisions have the least amount of animation (in some breeds, the horses are flat-shod) and the greatest emphasis on manners. Show hack is a competition seen primarily in the United Kingdom , Australia , and other nations influenced by British traditions, featuring horses of elegant appearance, with excellent way of going and self-carriage. A related event is Riding Horse . [ edit ] "Western" riding Main article: Western riding See also: Reining , Western pleasure , Rodeo , and Cutting (sport) Western riding evolved from the cattle-working and warfare traditions brought to the Americas by the Spanish Conquistadors , and both equipment and riding style evolved to meet the working needs of the cowboy on ranches in the American West . Though the differences between English and Western riding appear dramatic, there are more similarities than most people think. Both styles require riders to have a solid seat, with the hips and shoulders balanced over the feet, with hands independent of the seat so as to avoid disturbing the balance of the horse and interfering with its performance. The most noticeable feature of western style riding is in the saddle, which has a substantial tree that provides greater support to horse and rider when working long hours in the saddle. The western saddle features a prominent pommel topped by a horn (a knob used for dallying a lariat after roping an animal), a deep seat and a high cantle. The stirrups are wider and the saddle has rings and ties that allow objects to be attached to the saddle. Western horses are asked to perform with a loose rein, controlled by one hand. The standard western bridle lacks a noseband and usually consists of a single set of reins attached to a curb bit that has somewhat longer and looser shanks than the curb of an English Weymouth bridle or a pelham bit . Two styles of Western reins developed: The long split reins of the Texas tradition, which are completely separated, or the closed-end " Romal " reins of the California tradition, which have a long single attachment on the ends that can be used as a quirt . Modern rodeo competitors in timed events sometimes use a closed rein without a romal . Western riders wear a long-sleeved shirt, denim jeans, boots, and a wide-brimmed cowboy hat . Cowboy boots , which have pointed toes and higher heels than a traditional riding boot, are designed to prevent the rider's foot from slipping through the stirrup during a fall, preventing the rider from being dragged—most western saddles have no safety bars for the leathers or automatic stirrup release mechanism. A rider may wear protective leather leggings called chaps . Clean, well-fitting work clothing is the usual outfit seen in rodeo , cutting and reining competitions, especially for men, though sometimes both men and women wear brighter colors or finer fabrics for competition than for work. Show events such as Western pleasure use much flashier equipment, unlike the English traditions where clothing and tack is quiet and unobtrusive. Saddles, bits and bridles are ornamented with substantial amounts of silver. The rider may add a jacket or vest, and women's clothing in particular features vivid colors and even, depending on current fads, rhinestones or sequins. [ 5 ] Western horses are asked to have a brisk, ground-covering walk, but a slow, relaxed jog trot that allows the rider to sit the saddle and not post. The Western version of the canter is called a lope and while collected and balanced, is expected to be slow and relaxed. Working western horses seldom use a sustained hand gallop, but must be able to accelerate quickly to high speed when chasing cattle or competing in rodeo speed events, must be able to stop quickly from a dead run and "turn on a dime." [ edit ] Rodeo Main article: Rodeo Rodeo events include the following forms of competition: [ edit ] Timed events Barrel racing and pole bending - the timed speed and agility events seen in rodeo as well as gymkhana or O-Mok-See competition. Both men and women compete in speed events at gymkhanas or O-Mok-Sees; however, at most professional, sanctioned rodeos, barrel racing is an exclusively women's sport. In a barrel race, horse and rider gallop around a cloverleaf pattern of barrels, making agile turns without knocking the barrels over. In pole bending, horse and rider run the length of a line of six upright poles, turn sharply and weave through the poles, turn again and weave back, then return to the start. Steer wrestling - Also known as "Bulldogging," this is a rodeo event where the rider jumps off his horse onto a steer and 'wrestles' it to the ground by grabbing it by the horns. This is probably the single most physically dangerous event in rodeo for the cowboy, who runs a high risk of jumping off a running horse head first and missing the steer, or of having the thrown steer land on top of him, sometimes horns first. Goat tying - usually an event for women or pre-teen girls and boys, a goat is staked out while a mounted rider runs to the goat, dismounts, grabs the goat, throws it to the ground and ties it in the same manner as a calf. This event was designed to teach smaller or younger riders the basics of calf roping without the more complex need to also lasso the animal. [ edit ] Roping Roping includes a number of timed events that are based on the real-life tasks of a working cowboy, who often had to capture calves and adult cattle for branding , medical treatment and other purposes. A lasso or lariat is thrown over the head of a calf or the horns of adult cattle, and the animal is secured in a fashion dictated by its size and age. Calf roping , also called "tie-down roping," is an event where a calf is roped around the neck by a lariat , the horse stops and sets back on the rope while the cowboy dismounts, runs to the calf, throws it to the ground and ties three feet together. (If the horse throws the calf, the cowboy must lose time waiting for the calf to get back to its feet so that the cowboy can do the work. The job of the horse is to hold the calf steady on the rope) This activity is still practiced on modern working ranches for branding , medical treatment, and so on. Team roping , also called "heading and heeling," is the only rodeo event where men and women riders may compete together. Two people capture and restrain a full-grown steer. One horse and rider, the "header," lassos a running steer's horns, while the other horse and rider, the "heeler," lassos the steer's two hind legs. Once the animal is captured, the riders face each other and lightly pull the steer between them, so that it loses its balance, thus in the real world allowing restraint for treatment. Breakaway roping - an easier form of calf roping where a very short lariat is used, tied lightly to the saddle horn with string and a flag. When the calf is roped, the horse stops, allowing the calf to run on, flagging the end of time when the string and flag breaks from the saddle. In the United States, this event is primarily for women of all ages and boys under 12, while in some nations where traditional calf roping is frowned upon, riders of both genders compete. [ edit ] "Rough Stock" competition In spite of popular myth, most modern "broncs" are not in fact wild horses, but are more commonly spoiled riding horses or horses bred specifically as bucking stock. Bronc riding - there are two divisions in rodeo, bareback bronc riding, where the rider is only allowed to hang onto a bucking horse with a surcingle , and saddle bronc riding, where the rider is allowed a specialized western saddle without a horn (for safety) and may hold onto a heavy lead rope attached to a halter on the horse. Bull Riding - though technically not an equestrian event, as the cowboys ride full-grown bulls instead of horses, skills similar to bareback bronc riding are required. [ edit ] Harness A Welsh pony in fine harness competition Main article: Driving (horse) Horses, mules and donkeys are driven in harness in many different ways. For working purposes, they can pull a plow or other farm equipment designed to be pulled by animals. In many parts of the world they still pull wagons for basic hauling and transportation. They may draw carriages at ceremonies, in parades or for tourist rides. As noted in "horse racing" above , horses can race in harness, pulling a very lightweight cart known as a sulky . At the other end of the spectrum, some draft horses compete in horse pulling competitions, where single or teams of horses and their drivers vie to determine who can pull the most weight for a short distance. In horse show competition, the following general categories of competition are seen: Combined driving , an internationally-recognized competition where horses perform an arena-based "dressage" class where precision and control are emphasized, a cross-country "marathon" section that emphasizes fitness and endurance, and a "stadium" or "cones" obstacle course. Draft horse showing : Most draft horse performance competition is done in harness. Pleasure driving : Horses and ponies are usually hitched to a light cart shown at a walk and two speeds of trot, with an emphasis on manners. Fine harness : Also called "Formal driving," Horses are hitched to a light four-wheeled cart and shown in a manner that emphasizes flashy action and dramatic performance. Roadster : A horse show competition where exhibitors wear racing silks and ride in a sulky in a style akin to harness racing , only without actually racing, but rather focusing on manners and performance. Carriage driving, using somewhat larger two or four wheeled carriages, often restored antiques , judged on the turnout/neatness or suitability of horse and carriage. [ edit ] Other equestrian activities Girls and their horses preparing for a polo game There are many other forms of equestrian activity and sports seen worldwide. There are both competitive events and pleasure riding disciplines available. [ edit ] Arena sports Arena polo and Cowboy polo Pato (Argentina's national sport) Charreada , the highest form of Mexican horsemanship based on a mixture of Spanish and Native traditions. Equestrian vaulting : In vaulting, a surcingle with two hoops at the top is attached around a horse's barrel . The horse also wears a bridle with side reins . The vaulter is longed on the horse, and performs gymnastic movements while the horse walks, trots, and canters. Gymkhana , also known as O-Mok-See in the western United States. Reining [ edit ] Horse sports that use cattle Australian rodeo Bullfighting ( rejoneo ) Campdrafting , a type of cattle-working competition popular in Australia Chilean rodeo Cutting Team penning [ edit ] Defined area sports Buzkashi , a sport originating on the steppes of central Asia , now the national sport of Afghanistan and Kyrgyzstan . Horseball Jousting and Skill at Arms , events involving use of lances, swords and completion of obstacles. There are stand-alone competitions and also are often seen at historical reenactments , Renaissance Fairs and Society for Creative Anachronism events. Mounted Games , a sport where games are played in a relay-style with two to five members per team at very high speed Polo , a team game played on horses, involves riders using a long-handled mallet to drive a ball on the ground into the opposing team's goal while the opposing team defends their goal Polocrosse Tent pegging Mounted archery [ edit ] Cross-country sports Competitive Mounted Orienteering‎ , a form of orienteering on horses (but unrelated to orienteering ) - consists of three stages: following a precise route marked on a map, negotiation of obstacles, and control of paces. Le Trec , which comprises three phases - trail riding, with jumping and correct basic flatwork. Le Trec, which is very popular in Europe, tests the partnership's ability to cope with an all-day ride across varied terrain, route finding, negotiating natural obstacles and hazards, while considering the welfare of the horse, respecting the countryside and enjoying all it has to offer. Competitive trail riding , a pace race held across terrain similar to endurance riding , but shorter in length (25 - 35 miles (56 km), depending on class). Being a form of pace race , the objective is not to finish in the least time. Instead, as in other forms of judged trail riding , each competitor is graded on everything including physical condition, campsite, and horse management. Horsemanship also is considered, including how the rider handles the trail and how horse is handled and presented to the judge and vet throughout the ride. The horse is graded on performance, manners, etc. "Pulse and respiration" stops check the horse's recovery ability. The judges also set up obstacles along the trail and the horse and rider are graded on how well they perform as a team. The whole point is the partnership between the horse and rider. Cross Country Jumping , a jumping course that contains logs, and natural obstacles mostly. The common clothes worn are usually brighter colors and less conservative. Endurance riding , a competition usually of 50 to 100 miles (160 km) or more, over mountainous or other natural terrain, with scheduled stops to take the horses' vital signs, check soundness, and verify that the horse is fit to continue. The first horse to finish and be confirmed by the veterinarian as fit to continue is the winner. Additional awards are usually given to the best-conditioned horses who finish in the top 10. Fox hunting Hacking, or pleasure riding . Hunter Pacing is a sport where a horse and rider team travel a trail at speeds based the ideal conditions for the horse, with competitors seeking to ride closest to that perfect time. Hunter paces are usually held in a series. Hunter paces are usually a few miles long and covered mostly at a canter or gallop. The horsemanship and management skills of the rider are also considered in the scoring, and periodic stops are required for veterinarians to check the vital signs and overall soundness of the horses. Ride and Tie is a form of endurance riding in which teams of 3 (two humans and one horse) alternate running and riding. Steeplechase Trail Riding , pleasure riding any breed horse, any style across the land. [ edit ] Health issues Handling, riding, and driving horses has a number of health benefits and risks. Please help improve this article by expanding it. Further information might be found on the talk page . (January 2009) Riding has some inherent risks, as when mounted, the rider's head may be up to 4 m (13 ft) from the ground, and the horse may travel at a speed of up to 65 km/h (40 mph). [ 6 ] The injuries observed range from very minor injuries to fatalities. A recent study in Germany reported that the relative risk of injury from riding a horse, compared to riding a bicycle, was 9 times higher for adolescents and 5.6 times higher for younger children , but that riding a horse was less risky than riding a moped . [ 7 ] In Victoria, Australia , a search of state records found that equestrian sports had the third highest incidence of serious injury, after motor sports and power boating . [ 8 ] In Greece , an analysis of a national registry estimated the incidence of equestrian injury to be 21 per 100,000 person-years for farming and equestrian sports combined, and 160 times higher for horse racing personnel. Other findings were that use of spurs may contribute to ankle fractures and dislocations, and helmets likely prevent traumatic brain injuries. [ 9 ] In the United States each year an estimated 30 million people ride horses, resulting in 50,000 emergency room visits (1 visit per 600 riders per year). [ 10 ] A survey of 679 equestrians in Oregon, Washington, and Idaho estimated that at some time in their equestrian career one in five will be seriously injured, resulting in hospitalization, surgery, or long-term disability. [ 11 ] Among survey respondents, novice equestrians had an incidence of any injury that was three-fold over intermediates, fivefold over advanced equestrians, and nearly eightfold over professionals. Approximately 100 hours of experience are required to achieve a substantial decline in the risk of injury. The survey authors conclude that efforts to prevent equestrian injury should focus on novice equestrians. [ edit ] Mechanisms of injury The most common mechanism of injury is falling from the horse, followed by being kicked, trampled, and bit. About 3 out of 4 injuries are due to falling, broadly defined. A broad definition of falling often includes being crushed and being thrown from the horse, but when reported separately each of these mechanisms may be more common than being kicked. [ 12 ] [ 13 ] [ edit ] Types and severity of injury In Canada , a 10-year study of trauma center patients injured while riding reported that although 48% had suffered head injuries, only 9% of these riders had been wearing helmets at the time of their accident. Other injuries involved the chest (54%), abdomen (22%), and extremities (17%). [ 14 ] A German study reported that injuries in horse riding are rare compared to other sports, but when they occur they are severe. Specifically, they found that 40% of horse riding injuries were fractures, and only 15% were sprains. Furthermore the study noted that in Germany, one quarter of all sport related fatalities are caused by horse riding. [ 15 ] Most horse related injuries are a result of falling from a horse, which is the cause of 60-80% of all such reported injuries. [ 16 ] [ 17 ] Another common cause of injury is being kicked by a horse, which may cause skull fractures or severe trauma to the internal organs . Some possible injuries resulting from horse riding, with the percent indicating the amounts in relation to all injuries as reported by a New Zealand study, [ 18 ] include: Arm fracture or dislocation (31%) Head injury (21%) Leg fracture or dislocation (15%) Chest injury (??%) Among 36 members and employees of the Hong Kong Jockey Club who were seen in a trauma center during a period of 5 years, 24 fell from horses and 11 were kicked by the horse. Injuries comprised: 18 torso; 11 head, face, or neck; and 11 limb. [ 19 ] The authors of this study recommend that helmets, face shields, and body protectors be worn when riding or handling horses. In New South Wales , Australia , a study of equestrians seen at one hospital over a 6 year period found that 81% were wearing a helmet at the time of injury, and that helmet use both increased over time and was correlated with a lower rate of admission. [ 20 ] In the second half of the study period, of the equestrians seen, only 14% were admitted. In contrast, a study of child equestrians seen at a hospital emergency room in Adelaide, South Australia reported that 60% were admitted. [ 21 ] In the United States, an analysis of National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) data performed by theEquestrian Medical Safety Association studied 78,279 horse-related injuries in 2007: "The most common injuries included fractures (28.5%); contusions/abrasions (28.3%); strain/sprain (14.5%); internal injury (8.1%); lacerations (5.7%); concussions (4.6%); dislocations (1.9%); and hematomas (1.2%). Most frequent injury sites are the lower trunk (19.6%); head (15.0%); upper trunk (13.4%); shoulder (8.2%); and wrist (6.8%). Within this study patients were treated and released (86.2%), were hospitalized (8.7%), were transferred (3.6%), left without being treated (0.8%), remained for observation (0.6%), and arrived at the hospital deceased (0.1%)." [ 22 ] [ edit ] Riding astride The idea that riding a horse astride could injure a woman's sex organs is a historic bugaboo . [ citation needed ] This includes the popular idea that riding astride can damage the hymen . [ 23 ] Evidence of injury to any female sex organs is scant. In female high-level athletes, trauma to the perineum is rare and is associated with certain sports (see Pelvic floor#Clinical significance ). The type of trauma associated with equestrian sports has been termed "horse riders' perineum". [ 24 ] A case series of 4 female mountain bike riders and 2 female horse riders found both patient-reported perineal pain and evidence of sub-clinical changes in the clitoris ; [ 25 ] the relevance of these findings to horse riding is unknown. In men, sports-related injuries are among the major causes of testicular trauma. In a small controlled but unblinded study of 52 men, varicocele was significantly more common in equestrians than in non-equestrians. [ 26 ] The difference between these two groups was small, however, compared to differences reported between extreme mountain bike riders and non-riders, [ 27 ] and also between mountain bike riders and on-road bicycle riders. [ 28 ] Horse-riding injuries to the scrotum ( contusions ) and testes ( blunt trauma ) were well known to surgeons in the 19th century and early 20th century. [ 29 ] Injuries from collision with the pommel of a saddle are mentioned specifically. [ 29 ] [ edit ] Criticism of horses in sport This section contains weasel words , vague phrasing that often accompanies biased or unverifiable information . Such statements should be clarified or removed . (January 2009) See also: Horse racing  and Rodeo Most horse owners are interested in the well-being and welfare of horses. Some are allied with various animal welfare organizations that try to end genuine abuse of horses. Almost all competitive events have well-established rules and regulations to prevent abuse of animals and to encourage ethical behavior. Most high-intensity sports like show jumping, endurance riding, eventing, rodeo, and horse racing are closely monitored by veterinarians to prevent and treat injuries. On the other hand, there are genuine abuses of horses that do occur. Some people, often motivated by profit or a desire to win at all costs, may inflict pain, overwork, injure, neglect, starve, or drug horses in ways that harm the animal's physical health and mental well-being. Organized groups dedicated to protecting all animals, such as the Humane Society of the United States , and animal rights groups such as People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals , target some horse sports with claims of animal cruelty . Horse racing and rodeo are most commonly targeted both because of their visibility to the non-horse-oriented public and because these are sports where it is sometimes difficult for people who do not know much about horses to differentiate between pushing equines to perform to their peak and actual abuse. One problem is a disagreement about terms like abuse. While some individuals consider even fairly drastic discipline of horses as non-abusive, others consider abuse to be anything done against the will of the animal in question. Some people consider poor living conditions abusive, others think riding itself is abusive. There is no consensus on the issue. Further, the perspective of the individuals holding various viewpoints is sometimes quite different. For example, horse professionals claim they know better what is best for horses than people who live horseless lives, easily influenced by propaganda. On the other hand, other individuals claim that many horse professionals are biased because of motivation for personal gain. However, many people take a middle ground, primarily concerned that certain sports or training techniques may unnecessarily cause pain or injuries to horse athletes, just as they do for human athletes. Some people who advocate use of horses in equestrian activities point out that horses in the wild have a shorter average life expectancy and are injured more often and more severely than those used in sport. Most public laws and statutes carefully describe criminally abusive practices that incur legal penalties in very specific terms. Some behaviors and activities are widely condemned as abusive by people within the horse industry, even if not illegal as a matter of public law. Use of many performance-enhancing drugs is prohibited in most competitions, and organizations that sanction various events spend a great deal of money testing horses for illegal drugs. Some specific training or showing practices are so widely condemned that they have been made illegal at the national level and violations can incur criminal penalties. The most well-known is soring, a practice of applying a caustic ointment just above the hooves of a Tennessee Walking Horse to make it pick up its feet higher. However, in spite of a federal law in the United States prohibiting this practice and routine inspections of horse shows by inspectors from the United States Department of Agriculture , the practice is still widespread and difficult to eliminate. [ 30 ] Some events themselves are also considered so abusive that they are banned in many countries. Among these are horse-tripping, a sport where riders chase and rope a loose-running horse by its front legs, throwing it to the ground. [ edit ] Horse riding on coinage Horse Riding commemorative coin Horse riding events have been selected as a main motif in numerous collectors' coins. One of the recent samples is the €10 Greek Horse Riding commemorative coin , minted in 2003 to commemorate the 2004 Summer Olympics . On the composition of the obverse of this coin, the modern horseman is pictured as he jumps over an obstacle, while in the background the ancient horseman is inspired by a representation on a black-figure vase of the 5th century BC. [ edit ] See also Wikimedia Commons has media related to: Horse riding Glossary of equestrian terms Equitation science Western riding English riding Dressage Classical dressage Driving (horse) Domestication of the horse Equestrian use of roadways Horses in warfare Horse show Equestrian at the Summer Olympics List of horse accidents United States Equestrian Federation International Federation for Equestrian Sports Horse training Horse behavior Equestrian helmet Mounting block Cowboy Mounted Shooting Fletcher Street Urban Riding Club for a description of urban riding traditions [ edit ] References ^ http://www.thefreedictionary.com/equestrian ^ [1] ^ Chamberlin, J. 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Clin J Sport Med 18 (1): 49–54. doi : 10.1097/JSM.0b013e31815c042f . PMID   18185039 . http://meta.wkhealth.com/pt/pt-core/template-journal/lwwgateway/media/landingpage.htm?an=00042752-200801000-00010 .   ^ a b William Williams Keen, John Chalmers Da Costa, ed (1908). Surgery, Its Principles and Practice . 4 . W. B. Saunders Company . http://books.google.com/?id=QnYwAAAAIAAJ .   pages 598, 615 ^ EQUUS Special Report: Why Soring Persists [ edit ] External links International Federation for Equestrian Sports FEI official homepage United States Equestrian Federation USEF Official web site Equestrian Federation of Australia Equestrian Federation of Australia web site Equestrian Federation of Ireland - EFI web site Equestrian Federation of Kazakhstan Russian - Equestrian Federation of Kazakhstan English United States Dressage Federation American Endurance Ride Conference The North American Trail Ride Conference - Competitive Trail Riding UK Endurance Horse Riding Ride and Tie Association The American Vaulting Association - Equestrian Vaulting National Cutting Horse Association v   •   d   •   e Equine Equine science and management Equine anatomy  · Equine nutrition  · Horse behavior  · Horse care  · Horse breeding  · Equine conformation  · Equine coat color  · Horse gait Equestrianism and sport Glossary of equestrian terms  · Horse tack  · Bit  · Bridle  · Saddle  · Harness  · English riding  · Western riding  · Driving  · Horse training  · Horse racing  · Equestrian at the Summer Olympics  · Horse show  · Equitation Evolution and history Domestication  · In warfare  · In the Middle Ages  · Horses in East Asian warfare  · History of the horse in South Asia  · Horses in the Napoleonic Wars  · Horses in World War I  · Horses in World War II Horse breeds , types and other Equidae Horses List of horse breeds  · Wild horse  · Feral horse  · Stock horse  · Gaited horse  · Draft horse  · Warmblood  · Sport horse Other Equus Donkey  · Zebra  · Onager Hybrids Hinny  · Mule  · Zebroid Category: Equidae v   •   d   •   e Olympic sports Summer sports Archery  • Athletics  • Badminton  • Basketball  • Boxing  • Canoeing  • Cycling  • Diving  • Equestrian  • Field hockey  • Fencing  • Football  • Gymnastics  • Handball  • Judo  • Modern pentathlon  • Rowing  • Sailing  • Shooting  • Swimming  • Synchronized swimming  • Table tennis  • Taekwondo  • Tennis  • Triathlon  • Volleyball  • Water polo  • Weightlifting  • Wrestling Winter sports Alpine skiing  • Biathlon  • Bobsleigh  • Cross-country skiing  • Curling  • Figure skating  • Freestyle skiing  • Ice hockey  • Luge  • Nordic combined  • Short track speed skating  • Skeleton  • Ski jumping  • Snowboarding  • Speed skating Former Olympic sports Baseball  • Basque pelota  • Cricket  • Croquet  • Golf  • Jeu de paume  • Lacrosse  • Polo  • Rackets  • Roque  • Rugby union  • Softball  • Tug of war  • Water motorsports See also : Paralympic sports || Skip to main content Buy My eBay Sell Community Contact us Help Enter your search keyword 10 Welcome! 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