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12:55 on 4th December 2007

The Equestrian disciplines are unique among Olympic sports, in the sense that men and women compete on the same terms and horse and rider are both declared Olympic medal winners.

At Olympic Games, the horses must be the same nationality as the riders and each horse must be at least seven years old and have (as well as the rider) a certificate indicating experience in top international competition.

Rider and horse are considered a team. Years of systematic efforts are required for the team to be able to perform adequately various exercises of skill, speed, endurance, and jumping of obstacles.

Dressage is the harmonious development of the physique and ability of the horse together with the rider’s perfect guidance and control. Together, horse and rider perform a set of specific movements and are judged on their performance for their quality and for their overall aspect of the test.

Dressage is often compared to ballet, due to the skill and mastery it requires from both rider and horse in order to execute all exercises.

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