Discipline's origin

   Three-day eventing, usually abbreviated by horse enthusiasts to "eventing", began as a test of the cavalry horse. Military horses were required to travel long distances, negotiate the many natural obstacles, and then perform strict parade manoeuvres. Competitions began in this event in Europe in 1902 and interest in the sport is still concentrated mainly in Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand.

   Olympic history

   Equestrian events have been on the Olympic programme since 1900, when jumping events were held during the Olympics in Paris. However, equestrian events were not held again until 1912 in Stockholm. Since that year, the sport has always been on the Olympic programme. The programme has been remarkably constant. In 1900, a high jump and a long jump for horses were held for the only time, while in 1920, vaulting made a single appearance on the Olympic programme. Otherwise, the programme has rarely varied.

   Prior to 1952, equestrian sports events during the Olympics were contested by men only. In fact, the riders had to be military athletes. More specifically, they had to be commissioned officers. In 1952 these restrictions were lifted, and since then men and women have competed against each other in the equestrian events.

Credit: IOC

For further info., please visit http://www.olympic.org/uk/sports/programme/disciplines_uk.asp?DiscCode=EC.