Olympics Previews, Obscure Edition: The Equestrian Events

Published Jul 28 2012, 04:16 PM by Kendall Salter

So, we're all still pretty enthralled from the Olympics kickoff. But imagine you are caught in the middle of a slow Olympics afternoon, in between the speed of Usain Bolt and the spectacular endurance of Michael Phelps. The only thing on is something obscure: fencing, horses, judo, etc. You have to watch. But what, exactly, should spectators be looking for? The Phoenix is here to help, with our guide to the more esoteric side of the Olympics. Let's get things started with a little primer on the Equestrian events.

Horses and the Summer Olympics go hand in hoof. The Ancient Greek games features edge-of-your-seat chariot races to incite the frenzied mob of spectators, but that sort of thing is frowned upon in the harsh light of sporting modernity. The Equestrian events in 2012 are of a much more dignified variety, stemming as they do from countryside hunting jaunts with meticulously festooned riders: contestants sport breeches and something called a hunting stock (a sort of upscale collar). One might even spot a top hat or two.

The basics
The Equestrian portion of the Olympics consists of three primary disciplines. Dressage, which began as a way to test and prepare horses for ancient battles, displays the dexterity of the horse and the control of the rider. Jumping -- well, that one's pretty self-explanatory. Eventing is a more fast-paced combination of the two.

Fun fact
Not unlike golf or shuffleboard, this is a sport well suited for older athletes. In 2008, 61-year-old Canadian Ian Millar (London 2012 will be his 10th Olympics!) was the oldest Olympian to stand on the medal podium. But Japan's Hiroshi Hoketsu has him beat by nearly a decade. The 71-year-old wins the title of Oldest Olympian in London.

USA! USA!
Reed Kessler, at 18, is the youngest member of the US Equestrian team, which is headlined by two-time gold medalists McClain Ward and Phillip Dutton. Dutton previously won two gold medals for Australia. Karen O'Connor is the oldest (54) member of the U.S. Olympic team.

The Favorites
Germany, who combine individual flair with team efficiency. They may also have the best rider (World Champion Michael Jung) and horse (Totilas). Germany won team gold in Beijing, but will have to fight off the feisty Brits and their home crowd, who are looking to take home their first team gold in 40 years.

READ MORE: The Phoenix's guide to the Obscure Olympics