The FEI has discussed how to address any disparity between genders, and ensure the sport is for everyone
EQUESTRIANISM leads the way for gender parity in sport – but pockets of imbalance remain within the industry.
Discussion on equity in equestrian sport – which involves considering individual differences to ensure everyone has equal opportunity for success – took place at the FEI Sports Forum last month.
FEI figures published in 2023 show that over the past 10 years, the ratio of female to male rider registrations has swung towards an increase of females, from around 56% to 63%. But the gap at the top is widening, particularly in the Olympic disciplines, especially in showjumping.
Figures show female athletes represent around a third of ranked riders in jumping, but in the top 100 this falls to 16% – 6% in the top 30. Eventing has a wider disparity but is more balanced at the top, as females make up 72% of the rankings – 53% of the top 30.
Irish Olympian Jessica Kürten hosted the debate. Focusing on imbalance at the top of showjumping, she said it is “an interesting one”.
“I reached number two, just missed number one. But my horses took priority and they needed a rest,” she said.
“There were three women in the top 10 at that stage. But we didn’t have family and we each had a man, who had put his career on hold to support his wife. I think that this played a very large role in the success.”
She added that the world has changed from having to “make the decision to have family or sport”, and credited the “very good initiative from the FEI and International Jumping Riders Club” that allows women to freeze their points during “maternity leave”.
She noted that among riders she has spoken to, their priorities are towards success with horses and having a family over chasing ranking positions.
In terms
