Equestrian Vaulting

Equestrian Vaulting is basically gymnastics on horse back. It first started as a circus sport but is now classed as a proper sport and is quite popular. This can be a competitive sport or just for pleasure. It is also very calming and has been used for adults and children that have balance or social difficulties.
    Equestrian vaulting is when a horse moves around in a circle and is being lead by a lunger that stands in the middle. The rider then has to perform a number of exercises and movements on the horses back. When competing you can either go as a group of 2-3 people or go freestyle by yourself. For group work each performance is four minutes long and a dance like act is done to music. The riders do a lot of balancing skills and also do some typical cheer leading moves. For example, two riders would perform a balance on the horses back while they throw a third rider in the air. An individual person will perform a one minute freestyle act. If the rider is really experienced  they will do things such as handstands, jumping on and off the horse and some tumbling. A performer is judged on balance, skill and movement. The horse can also sometimes be judged.
    The horse isn't saddled but does wear a thick padding for protecting its back that also has a small bar to help the rider perform tricks. There are also small hoops used as stirrups if needed. The horse wears a bridle and the lunge rope is usually tied to the mouth bit on the left side. When competing the riders can wear coloured leotards. This makes it easier to perform tricks and it makes sure that a performer isn't wearing anything that could hurt the horse.
    This sport is not commonly played in Ireland but can be seen.

Photo Credit:Voltige123

Vedio from Youtube; https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OJhKfM2Yq6M