How would I go about trying to ride in olympics for Show jumping??

Question

I would love to ride in olympics in show jumping or eventing I love to jump and I feel that I am going no where in my show career. I would love to show but I really don't have to money to do it. How would I go about get help with it?

Answer 1

Equestrian really is a sport that needs adequate funding to get you started. Firstly though you need a good horse to ride (whether it be yours or somebody elses) and to start to attend competitions. Next comes and instructor - a good one who knows their stuff! I know you may be on a limited budget but try to make a deal with mum/dad or pick up more work hours - if showjumping is what you really want to do. After you start attending some competitions (and hopefully doing well!) you will probably start to pick up prizes/prize money that may assist you with your horse/riding. From then on you could start to seek out sponsorship, which would help cover your costs and enable you to travel more widely to shows. It sounds so simple in words, but it is very very very difficult, remember all of this takes years, and to be at Olympic level takes a lifetime. I am a showjumper and I rely 99.9% on mum and dad. All of my family ride (from track to dressage) and my dad is very supportive and covers the costs. I am very lucky and train with my countys top riders - yet I am still struggling to do as good as I would hope. Showjumping is a very tough sport, I hate to say it, but the wealthy do have the advantage - best horses, gear, food, stables, instructors, etc. It sucks, but it's just the way it is.

I wish you all the best of luck and hope to see you 2016 at the Olympics!!