Working Equitation: tradition meets modernity in equestrian sport

Origin and history of Working Equitation

Working Equitation has its roots in the traditional working riding methods of southern European countries such as Portugal, Spain, Italy and France. Originally, the techniques were developed by herdsmen to make their daily work with cattle easier. Riders had to skillfully maneuver their horses through rough terrain, open gates, cross bridges and maintain control of the herd at all times. These skills and tasks were eventually combined into a sporting competition to measure the skills of the riders and horses.

The modern form of Working Equitation emerged in the 1990s when various countries joined forces to develop an international standard for this discipline. In 1996, the first official European Championships were held in Italy, which was the starting signal for the establishment of Working Equitation as a recognized sporting discipline. Since then, the sport has spread to many countries, particularly in southern Europe and increasingly also in Germany.

Working Equitation not only preserves the traditional art of riding, but also promotes the versatility and gymnastic training of horses. Today, the riding style is regarded as a perfect symbiosis of tradition and modern equestrian sport, which challenges and encourages both riders and horses in a unique way. The sporting aspect of this discipline has contributed to its growing popularity not only among leisure riders, but also in competition sport worldwide.

The historical roots of Working Equitation are still visible in the tests and challenges that stem from the daily work of a herdsman on the pasture. Thus, the discipline remains a living legacy that carries the time-honored tradition of working equitation into the present day while expanding the skills of modern riders.

The four disciplines of Working Equitation

• Dressage: The focus here is on the precise and harmonious execution of dressage lessons. Dressage forms the basis for all other disciplines and requires a close connection between rider and horse.
• Stiltrail: The Stiltrail simulates the work situations that a shepherd might encounter. The obstacles, such as gates or bridges, must be overcome with elegance and style, with the emphasis on technique.
• Speed trail: The speed trail is the faster version of the style trail. Here the course is negotiated in a timed manner, which requires high speed and precision. Any contact with an obstacle results in a time penalty.
• Cattle work: In cattle work, a single cow is separated from the herd and driven through a marked area. This discipline requires maximum teamwork and trust between rider and horse.

The performance classes in Working Equitation

In order to do justice to the different levels of experience of the riders, there are different performance classes in Working Equitation:

• Beginner class (WE): This class is ideal for newcomers and riders who want to gain their first experience in Working Equitation. The requirements here are comparatively low, so that rider and horse are slowly introduced to the disciplines.
• Light (WA): In the "Easy" class, the requirements increase, particularly in the areas of dressage and style trail. Here, riders can already demonstrate their progress and the trust between horse and rider.
• Intermediate (WL): The "Intermediate" class is aimed at advanced riders who already have a good command of all four disciplines. The level of difficulty continues to increase and the demands on precision and technique are significantly higher.
• Difficult (WM): This class is intended for very experienced riders who have mastered the disciplines at a high level. The dressage and cattle work are particularly demanding and require a high level of skill.
• Masterclass (WS): The highest class is the Masterclass, which is reserved only for the best riders. In this class, all disciplines are performed at the highest level and both national and international competitions are held.

The path to Working Equitation

The introduction to Working Equitation often begins with a taster course or a special course organized by regional clubs or riding schools. These introductory events offer an excellent opportunity to learn the basics of the discipline and gain initial experience. Participants learn how to prepare their horse correctly for the various challenges that Working Equitation entails.

Most riders start in the beginner class, where the demands on horse and rider are still manageable. The main aim here is to develop a basic understanding of the discipline and create a solid foundation for the other performance levels. With increasing experience and ability, riders then gradually work their way up through the various performance classes, with each level placing greater demands on precision, technique and confidence.

A decisive factor for success in working equitation is choosing the right horse. While any breed of horse is generally suitable, preference should be given to horses with a calm temperament, good basic training and a high willingness to learn. It is particularly important that the horse is willing to work closely with the rider and remains calm and focused in every situation.

Major tournaments and riders in Working Equitation

In Germany and internationally, there are several important tournaments that make Working Equitation an exciting experience. Particularly noteworthy is the German Championship, which takes place every year and brings together the best riders in the country. Internationally, the European Championship stands out, where riders from all over Europe compete against each other. Another important tournament is the World Championships, which brings together the elite of working equitation on a global level.

Among the best-known riders in this discipline are Pedro Torres from Portugal, who is regarded as one of the best working equitation riders in the world, and Alessandro Valerio from Italy, who stands out for his excellent dressage work. There are also outstanding riders in Germany, such as Robert Patschke and Corinna Graf, who have made a name for themselves both nationally and internationally.

Working Equitation in Germany

Interest in Working Equitation is growing steadily in Germany. The "Working Equitation Deutschland e.V." actively promotes the spread of this discipline and organizes numerous tournaments and courses. The versatility and openness of the sport enable riders from a wide range of backgrounds and training levels to compete and develop in this fascinating discipline.

Working Equitation: Summarized

Working Equitation combines tradition and modernity, promotes the relationship between horse and rider and offers a platform that focuses on skill and harmony. Whether as a leisure activity or in competition, Working Equitation offers an exciting and challenging experience for every horse lover. The growing community and the large number of competitions in Germany show that this sport has a promising future.

Working Equitation: The most important questions and answers

Which saddle for Working Equitation?

A Working Equitation saddle is designed to offer the rider maximum comfort and stability while performing a variety of tasks. Traditionally, Portuguese or Spanish saddles are often used, which offer a deep seat and make it easier to give aids. However, well-fitting dressage saddles or eventing saddles specially adapted for working equitation are also suitable.

What do you do in Working Equitation?

Working Equitation combines various disciplines that put the skills of rider and horse to the test. The main disciplines include dressage, style trail, speed trail and cattle work. These disciplines simulate the work situations of a herdsman and require close cooperation between rider and horse.

Where does Working Equitation come from?

Working Equitation has its origins in the traditional working riding methods of southern Europe, particularly Portugal, Spain, Italy and France. The discipline is based on the skills that herdsmen needed to lead their herds through rough terrain.

Which horses are suitable for Working Equitation?

In principle, all horse breeds are suitable for working equitation as long as they have good basic training, obedience and a calm temperament. Lusitanos, Andalusians and other Iberian breeds are particularly suitable, as they are naturally agile and well trained for precise maneuvers.

Which bit for Working Equitation?

Different bits are used in Working Equitation depending on the performance class. A simple water bit is often used in the lower classes, while curb bits are also used in the higher classes to support the fine aids.

What is a Working Equitation competition?

A Working Equitation competition consists of several tests that test the versatility of horse and rider. The participants have to demonstrate their skills in dressage, style trail, speed trail and, if necessary, cattle work.

How do I ride through a gate in Working Equitation?

In the video we show you how to ride through a gate in Working Equitation. Britta Rasche-Merkt explains how to make the style trail a success through dressage work:

Riding through a gate is one of the tests in the style trail. The rider must open the gate with one hand, lead the horse calmly through and then close the gate again. This task requires a close connection between rider and horse as well as precise aids.