Set against the backdrop of the Palace of Versailles, the 2024 Olympic Games offered an exhilarating exhibition of equestrian sports. An amalgamation of artistry and athleticism, the Games highlighted the perseverance and precision that permeate equestrian sports. Equestrian events are distinctive in their diversity in that they include both male and female players, reflecting the sport’s egalitarian ethos.
Equestrian Dressage
Referred to as “Horse Ballet”, Equestrian Dressage is a display of discipline and deftness.
In this sport, the horse rider stirs the horse through a series of pre-planned, predetermined movements known as “tests” that are considered for their cohesion and clarity between the horse and the rider.
For the 2024 Olympics, equestrian dressage was held at the charming Château de Versailles, offering a stunning backdrop that mirrors the sport’s elegance. The competition featured the best dressage riders and horses from around the world.
| Games | Gold | Silver | Bronze |
| Individual | Jessica von Bredow-Werndl (Germany) | Isabell Werth (Germany) | Charlotte Fry (Great Britain) |
| Team | (Germany)
on Bluetooth Old
on Wendy
on TSF Dalera BB | (Denmark)
on Vayron
on Zepter
on Freestyle | (Great Britain)
on Jagerbomb
on Fame
on Glamourdale |
Equestrian Eventing
“Eventing is not just about competing; it’s about the partnership with your horse. It’s a test of trust, skill, and endurance for both the horse and the rider,” Zara Tindall, Princess Anne of Britain, once commented. Eventing is often described as an equestrian triathlon, offering the trio of dressage, cross-country, and show jumping into a single, strenuous competition. This discipline tests the versatility and vibrancy of both the horse and the rider. The competition is spread over three days, with each phase posing its challenges.
The cross-country phase is particularly thrilling, with the horse and the rider navigating natural and man-made obstacles, showcasing stamina and courage. The eventing competition at the Paris Olympics will be staged in the beautiful surroundings of the Palace of Versailles gardens, adding an element of grandeur to the graceful sport.
| Games | Gold | Silver | Bronze |
| Individual | Michael Jung on Chipmunk Frh (Germany) | Christopher Burton on Shadow Man (Australia) | Laura Collett on London 52 (Great Britain) |
| Team | Great Britain
on Lordships Graffalo
on JD Dublin
on London 52 | France
on Diabolo Menthe
on Triton Fontaine
on Chaman Dumontceau | Japan
on Jefferson
on Vinci De La Vigne
on Mgh Grafton Street Ryuzo Kitajima on Cekatinka |
Equestrian Jumping
Show jumping is perhaps the most universally recognized equestrian discipline, known for the excitement and energy it evokes. Riders ride their horses throughout obstacles within a set time. There are penalties for knocking down the rails and refusals. The event requires impeccable artistic capacity, athleticism, and a strong partnership between the horse and the rider.
The jumping events at the 2024 Olympics will take place at the Stade de France, providing a grand arena for competitors to showcase their skills. Both individual and team medals are up for grabs, with riders from various nations competing for glory.
| Games | Gold | Silver | Bronze |
| Individual | Christian Kukuk (Germany) | Steve Guerdat (Switzerland) | Maikel van der Vleuten (Netherlands) |
| Team | (Graet Britain)
on Dallas Vegas Batilly
on Romeo 88
on Jefferson | (United States)
on Baloutinue
McLain Ward on Ilex | (France)
on I.Alemusina R 51
on Dorai D’Aiguilly
on Dubai du Cèdre |
