LGBTQ Presence in the Equestrian World

Equestrian refers to horseback riding and includes the skills of jumping (known as show jumping), eventing (being a race around and over various obstacles) and dressage (a form of riding with skilled synchronized movement between horse and rider). The sport has evolved to include competition in paralympic games.

The particular challenges in the sport include not only the ability to ride, but also the ability to bond with the horse and create a team effort, and have the lack of fear of speed and height when jumping. There are tremendous risks in the sport, as represented by the profile of riders who have sustained injuries.

Equestrian events were first included in the Olympic games in 1900.

LGBTQ individuals have long had a successful presence in the equestrian world. Almost every one of the LGBTQ equestrians we have identified has been an Olympic games contender, and most have been successful in winning an Olympic medal. Many have also won world championships which are organized by the International Federation of Equestrian Sports (FEI). Many of the riders turn to training and coaching after their successful personal careers and have made a global reputation for their success, such as Britain's Carl Hester or Amerian Robert Dover.

Unfortunately, there are no out lesbian or transgender individuals with a notable presence in the equestrian world.

Canada