After I get back from a show each weekend, the most common question I am asked is: “So how did your race go?” Due to the widely broadcasted event called the Kentucky Derby, non-equestrians seem to think that racing is the only form of horseback riding. While the term “horseback riding” is the main generalization of the sport, there are a number of different forms of riding that make up the whole activity.
Along with racing, the other commonly known type of riding is polo, not the clothing brand, but the game Prince William is often featured playing. These two are the most popular, but there are other divisions such as English, western, eventing, gymnastics, dressage, cross country, and many more. I participate in English, which consists of jumping and equitation, both judged on the form, cooperation, and most importantly, the skills of both the rider and horse. While there are many types of riding and riders, each participant requires a different amount of skill to become successful in their sport.
These skills may appear to be random or unimportant in daily life but they are highly valuable to each equestrian. These skills vary through many different aspects of the riding. For example, jumpers need to have great depth perception in order to judge the distance between themselves and the fence, while western riders require the balance to stay upright while racing around a barrel. Without these vitally important skills, each equestrian would be unsuccessful in their riding. Each type of riding is different and requires its own amount of skill, though the one requirement that they all have in common is the need for communication.
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