I got the chance to make a prime time television documentary for the USET, the United States Equestrian Team, in the late 1980s at events where great horseback riders were competing to become part of the American Olympic team. Equestrian sports at the Olympic level are highly challenging and competitive as they represent the pinnacle of the sport, showcasing the world's best riders and horses. There are three main equestrian disciplines: Dressage, Eventing (three-day event), and Show Jumping.
The 3-day endurance competition is considered the toughest equestrian sport due to its demanding nature and the diverse skill sets required of both horse and rider. This sport consists of three phases: dressage, show jumping and cross country which is shown in this clip.
Cross-country is considered the most demanding phase of the event. Riders must navigate a course of natural and man-made obstacles, such as water jumps, ditches, and banks, over several miles within a set time. The cross-country phase requires endurance, speed, agility, and a strong partnership between horse and rider. They must also make split-second decisions to negotiate obstacles safely and efficiently.
During the cross-country phase of the three-day endurance competition (Eventing) the risk of injury for both horse and rider is higher compared to the other phases.
Riders need to complete the course at a high speed, navigating various types of terrain and obstacles. The complexity of the course, combined with the speed required to meet the optimum time, increases the likelihood of falls and injuries.
Cross-country courses also feature a wide range of obstacles, such as water jumps, ditches, banks, and combinations. Some of these obstacles are designed to test the horse and rider's courage, skill, and partnership. When attempting these difficult jumps, errors in judgment or execution can lead to accidents.
The cross-country phase is physically demanding for both horse and rider. As the course progresses, fatigue can set in, affecting the performance and decision-making abilities of the rider and the horse, increasing the risk of injury.
Weather and ground conditions can also impact the risk of injury during the cross-country phase. Slippery or uneven footing can lead to falls, while hot and humid conditions can exacerbate fatigue and affect performance.
To compete at the Olympic level, riders and horses must maintain peak physical fitness and mental sharpness. They must also have a comprehensive training program that focuses on all aspects of their discipline, including technical skills, strength, endurance, and mental preparation.
A study by the Equine Veterinary Journal (EJCAP) analyzed 1,591 horse falls in Eventing and found that 67% of these falls occurred during the cross-country phase, with 47% of those falls resulting in horse and/or rider injuries.
Filming such incredible athleticism by men and women and horses of course, was absolutely thrilling. I was shocked by the danger in the injuries sustained in the fact that the athletes kept on going! Although I am not a horseback rider myself I found these athletes and their ability to articulate why horses are so magnificent, wonderful storytellers.
I post this video today so that all of you who feel similarly can enjoy what they said and how they said it. Horses are God's creatures for sure.