Equestrianism is under threat. The IOC is reconsidering its place in the next Olympic Games. But will equestrian sports be present at the 2020 Olympics?

The Olympic Games are coming up and we can't wait!

But equestrian sports are under threat.

They are accused of being too expensive, too elitist and not popular enough. The IOC (International Olympic Committee) is reconsidering their place in the next Olympic Games.

The eagerly awaited Olympic Games start today (Friday, August 5)! And these 2016 Rio Olympics are particularly important for all riders and fans of equestrian sports. The IOC has decided to analyze the popularity of these sports. They will then determine whether or not they will remain in future Olympic programs.

According to the publication of Grand Prix Magazine and Britain's largest equestrian magazine Horse & Hound, the IOC will be considering the involvement of equestrian fans from 29 July to 28 August.

The IOC will take into account all media in formulating their analysis: print, broadcast and online coverage; as well as engagement on social networks. The IOC will then be able to assess the extent to which the general public is attracted to equestrian sports.

Both the FEI (International Equestrian Federation) and the BEF (British Equestrian Federation) have launched online campaigns, with hashtags #JointheJourney, #TwoHearts and #ObjectifRio.

"Two Hearts" is an FEI initiative to illustrate the very special bond between a rider and his horse that is so necessary to compete in the world's most important sporting event and essential for any dedicated rider.

According to FEI President Ingmar De Vos,

"Equestrian sports are based on the connection, the intuitive bond and the committed partnership between these two athletes, which makes our sport one of the most challenging in the Olympic Games.

Britain's leading equestrian organisations, BD (British Dressage), BS (British Show Jumping) and BE (British Eventing) are calling on equestrian fans to show their support.

As the EO explained in their article "Your sport needs you for Rio 2016": "If you're a spectator, volunteer, competitor, or just love watching equestrian sports, we want to know how you're following the Rio 2016 Olympics! Through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, tell us how you are watching and what you love about Rio 2016."

Let's show our support! Use the hashtags:
#sportsequestres #ObjectifRio #JointheJourney #TwoHearts #Rio2016 #eventing

It is up to us to show the IOC that this sport is incredible, with a long history, a rich culture and above all fans motivated to stay in the Olympics at all costs.

Read more on this subject :
BE (British Eventing)
Grand Prix
Horse & Hound

Team Seaver