Equestrian sports events have been a part of Special Olympics since 1983, when the first competition was held in Louisiana, USA. At the 1987
World Games, 38 athletes competed in the equestrian competition, and one year later the sport was added to the official program of Special
Olympics Sports . At the 1991 World Games, 140 athletes competed in this event, and in 1995 the number of athletes rose to over 200,
representing 33 countries.
Events Special Olympics athletes who compete in the equestrian events learn to ride, develop sports skills and gain the self confidence to direct
and control a horse. Athletes are able to compete in a variety of English and Western style events, including relays, drill teams and prix caprilli
(jumping events).
Coaching Tip
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Have the athlete practice each step independently.
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Go from a sitting trot/jog to a walk, and from a walk to a halt.
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Then ask the athlete to perform all of the steps together.
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Emphasize perfoming this skill in a smooth and gradual manner.
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An immediate stop from a trot/jog may harm both the horse and rider.
Athlete Tip
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Bringing the horse to a halt from a trot/jog through a walk.
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Ride your horse at a trot/jog.
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Sit down in the saddle and ride at a sitting trot/jog for ten (10) beats.
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Pull back on the reins gently and evenly.
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Give the command “whoa” until the horse walks.
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Ride at a walk for a count of ten (10).
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Pull back on the reins once more to command the horse to halt.
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Reward the horse for stopping by patting its neck.
