The Origins and Modern Form of Equestrian Sport

The Origins and Modern Form of Equestrian Sport

The beginnings of equestrian sport date back to the time when humans first domesticated and tamed horses, around 5,500 years ago. In ancient Rome, there were riding instructors, and events featuring horse-drawn chariots racing took place in the world’s earliest hippodromes.

During peacetime in Europe, equestrian activities were closely linked to the military, with drills and competitions being organized to train both horse and rider.

In 1134, the first Riding Academy was established in Naples, known for its rather harsh handling of horses. Several centuries later, an appropriate institution was founded in Spain, called the Spanish Riding School, which traces its origins back to 1572.

Modern Equestrian Sport

Today’s equestrian sport differs greatly from practices hundreds or thousands of years ago. Modern equestrianism is structured around national riding federations, all united under the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI). Officially recognized disciplines include dressage, show jumping, eventing, vaulting, driving, and endurance riding. Other, less common disciplines, such as mounted archery, are also practiced.

Flots for Horses

It has long been customary to award horses with special flots for their achievements in competitions. Rosettes take various shapes and forms, but all serve to highlight the horse’s sporting talent as well as the skill of its rider.

Rosettes are most commonly attached behind the browband of a horse’s bridle. Larger rosettes may need to be placed elsewhere, for example on the breastplate, due to their size.