In the latest Equtalk (Business) Podcast, Stephan Conter, Thomas Tuytens, and Luc Tilleman all hinted that equestrian sport is in transition. "We can't avoid it; if we want to continue to exist, we have to teach people again what horses are and what riding is!"
This call for reflection is strongly supported by top rider Daniel Bluman, who addresses the often-distorted perception of the animal in an interview with Annette Paterakis. Bluman emphasizes that the concept of 'bad horses' does not exist. According to him, the problem often lies with human expectations and communication.
"Bad horses don't exist. Just because you buy a horse for a specific purpose, and that goal isn't achieved, it doesn't mean the horse is bad," Bluman states. He reminds riders that the horse has no awareness of the investment: "Don't forget that a horse doesn't know how many Euros or Dollars you bought it for. It only wants to do its best for you in the ring!" When things don't go as hoped, Bluman points to a communication issue. "Try to understand, not to be understood! Because some people have expectations that are - often based on the purchase price - unrealistic..."
It is essential to accept that you cannot build a perfect partnership with every horse, but this must never lead to a loss of respect. Bluman concludes with a personal note: "Horses are much more than just an animal. They are partners who require time! A horse is truly a mirror of yourself in the moment, don't forget that!"
Purchase Price Should Not Be a Decisive Factor!
German legend Ludger Beerbaum joins the critique of commercialization. He emphasizes that we need to return to understanding horses, far removed from financial indicators. "Money doesn't determine your level in this sport. If you jump at a 1.00m level, you shouldn't go and buy a 1.55m Grand Prix horse," he says.
Beerbaum insists that many people need to return to basics: building a partnership. It is about working on the connection with your horse, persevering, but also accepting the reality when the connection isn't there. However, this learning process only comes about "through work, never by determining your purchase price!" The consensus among the top sport icons is clear: the future of equestrian sport depends on the community's ability to once again view the horse as a valued partner, where time, respect, and understanding outweigh the price tag.
