In order to know the meaning of the term equestrian, it is necessary, first of all, to discover its etymological origin. In this case, we can establish that it derives from Greek, since it is the result of the sum of two lexical components of said language:
-The noun "hippos", which can be translated as "horse."
-The suffix «-ico», which is synonymous with «relative to».
The adjective equestrian is used to refer to that linked to horses : perissodactyl animals used as draft or saddle beasts that are characterized by their long limbs. The term comes from the Greek word hippikós .
The group of sports that are based on the use of horses is known as equestrian. These may be dressage tests , horse racing ( turf ) or other disciplines.
The origins of equestrian sports are remote: they were already very popular in Ancient Rome. Currently, horse racing moves a large amount of money through betting and horse breeding.
Horse or turf racing is one of the most famous horse sports. Thoroughbred horses that stand out for their speed usually participate. The competitions take place in venues known as racecourses , which usually have an oval-shaped track.
As in any race , the objective of the competitors (the horses commanded by riders who, in this framework, are called jockeys) is to travel the planned distance in the shortest time possible, reaching the finish line before their rivals. Bettors who guess the winner receive a reward.
It is important to know that there are several equestrian disciplines that have a presence in the Olympic Games. Specifically, among the most important are classical dressage, which has its origins in the Middle Ages, and equestrian jumping. However, what is known as a complete riding competition also takes center stage, which includes the aforementioned equestrian jumping, classical dressage and equestrian cross country.
If we take into account what Paralympic disciplines are, we must highlight the existence of the so-called paraequestrian dressage.
Finally, other disciplines that are neither Paralympic nor Olympic are equestrian enduro, equestrian harnesses or harnesses, vaulting, equestrian cross country, paraequestrian harnesses or harnesses, reining and TREC (Competitive Equestrian Course Techniques). ).
Likewise, in different corners of the world there are other types of equestrian sports or equestrian activities such as Andalusian cowboy dressage, gaucho horseback riding, the Australian rodeo, the sport of roping, reining, charrería, heavy draft races, coleus , the American rodeo or the team running of the bulls, for example.
In all cases, the human being must forge a special bond with the horse to meet the objectives of each test. It is important to note that abuse should never be part of the relationship.