When most people think of a sport dealing with horses, they think of something such as the Kentucky Derby where there is a horse race on a track or perhaps even a polo match that is played by the wealthy in various rgions of the world. There are actually, a lot sports that uses horses than most people realize says the owner of equestrian helmet covers and riding helmet covers. Other events that the public are familiar with are the different types of horse shows where riders do different riding techniques. These are all of the more traditional sports but this article will look into some of the other equestrian sports that you may have never heard of and details regarding them.

One of the newer events tht is gaining popularity is the Endurance riding events. The 1st endurance race was done in 1955 and was called the Tevis Cup and was a century mile one day ride that started in NV and ended in CA. NowToday endurance rides and races come in different distances from a ten mile trek to a difficult 100 mile race. It is appealing to every type of riders and of all ages too. Just like a running race, you may run fast or walk it, it is up to you the way you wish to do it. The health of the horse is imperative and only ones that are able to handle long distances may compete after being examined by a veterinarian. Arabian horses are the perfect endurance horses.

Horseball is a cross between basketball and rugby all done while riding a horse. It is a very new sport having only started in France two decades ago and it has spread to many other countries, mostly European where they now have a championship for it. You have to exchange or pass the ball at least three times before being able to shoot the ball and the circle goal is vertical instead of horizontal like in basketball. Tackling is permitted as in rugby with some rules that pertain to it and also the ball is a junior sized football with straps hanging from it to be able to pick it up when it is on the ground. It is a fast paced game with teams of 4 players on the field each and is exciting to see.

Vaulting is the final unique sport to be done on a horse. It is essentially performing gymnastics while on top of a moving horse. Competitions are scored on doing compulsory moves and a freestyle routine that keeps in harmony with the horse. It is quite a favorite in England and is also done in America too. Just like Horseball, it blends a different sport with horseback riding to make it it’s own unique activity.

There are more equestrian sports too but these were some of the more unique ones to learn about. As long as horses and people continue to work together, there will be various equestrian sports.

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