Equestrian

Equestrian sports events have been a part of Special Olympics since 1983, when the first competition was held in Louisiana, USA. At the 1987 World Games, 38 athletes competed in the equestrian competition, and one year later the sport was added to the official program of Special Olympics Sports. At the 1999 World Games, 148 athletes from 30 countries competed.

Special Olympics athletes who compete in the equestrian events learn to ride, develop sports skills and gain the self confidence to direct and control a horse.