equestrian sports

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Last updated

July 23, 2026

Quick Summary

Equestrian sports involve athletic competitions between horses and riders. These sports have a long history, with organized mounted games dating back to ancient Olympia and popular events like jousting in medieval Europe.1

Modern equestrian sports, governed internationally by the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI), include three main Olympic disciplines:
* Dressage: Focuses on the harmony between horse and rider, with predetermined movements judged on a scale of 0 to 10.12
* Jumping: Competitors navigate a course of obstacles, aiming for the fastest time with the fewest penalties.12
* Eventing: A three-day competition combining dressage, endurance (cross-country), and show jumping.12

While these sports showcase remarkable horsemanship, they have faced scrutiny regarding the safety of both horses and riders, with concerns about injuries and fatalities.2

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Olympics
Equestrian
Three equestrian disciplines are featured at the Rio Olympics in both team and individual events: dressage, jumping, and eventing (the equine triathlon). Each discipline has its roots in the military. In fact, until 1948 only military officers were allowed to compete in equestrian Olympic events.
Read More
Three equestrian disciplines are featured at the Rio Olympics in both team and individual events: dressage, jumping, and eventing (the equine triathlon). Each discipline has its roots in the military. In fact, until 1948 only military officers were allowed to compete in equestrian Olympic events.
Read More