Horse Facts and Equestrian Sports

Equestrian or Rider?

February 4th, 2008 Subscribe To Our Feed

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Horse and Man have co-existed since time immemorial. Without the relationship between horse and man our world would have a very different shape. We are no longer as dependent upon horses as we once were, they still play an important part in our lives – who among us has not played games based round riding a horse and racing like the wind towards the horizon. Horses are far more used for relaxation and sport, and the pleasure of their company though there are many still working in farms, ranches and there is still a military use, albeit mainly ceremonial.

The term ‘Equestrian’ has it’s roots in Roman times and comes from the world ‘Equus’ – Horse. The nobility of Rome provided the Cavalry and it is from there the term developed. The Equestrians of Rome were regarded as an elite class as horses were expensive and considerable wealth was required to maintain them.. The Knights were both a political and military force because of the influence their money and skills gave them. They were well compensated for their efforts by the government who needed to keep on good terms with a volatile group.

Horses were also used in more peaceful pursuits and as Rome expanded and drew in Cavalry from it’s allies the Knights lost their influence in politics but became more powerful in the financial world as they were allowed to engage in business unlike the Senators whose role was purely political.

The importance of the horse continued throughout history until relatively recent times. They have always been a valuable asset and as such were prized and well cared for. The ability to ride well and care for horses has always been the mark ofa social elite though that is changing today as Equestrian Sports are within the reach of many more people.

So what is the difference between and Equestrian and a Rider? Equestrianism is much more than just riding – it is a harmony between Horse and Rider where they work together as a team. Whilst we mainly think of Equestrian Sport as those things we see in the Olympics – Dressage, Show jumping and Cross Country Riding, it also covers Driving and other sports such as Polo.