Special Olympics athletes who compete in the equestrian events learn to develop sports skills and gain the self-confidence to direct and control a horse. Athletes are able to compete in a variety of individual English and Western-style events and drill teams.
As in all Special Olympics sports, athletes are grouped in competition divisions according to ability level and age (athletes are not separated by gender).
English Equitation
Stock Seat Equitation
English Obstacle
Western Working Trails
Showmanship at Halter/Bridle Classes
Barrel Class (A1, B1 and C1 Levels Only)
Pole Weaving (A1, B1 and C1 Levels Only)
Divisions
A1: Can perform walk, trot, and canter independently
B1: Can perform walk and trot independently
BS or B3: Can perform walk and trot supported
C1: Can perform walk independently
CS or C2: Can perform walk supported
Trail Patterns & Rules
Equestrian Waiver (PDF)
2018-2019 Equestrian Patterns (PDF)
2019 Equestrian Handbook (PDF)
Special Olympics Inc. Rules 2018 (PDF)
Special Olympics Inc. Rule Changes from 2016 (PDF)
National Governing Body: Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI)
Unified Sports
Contact Kris Kelly with any competition routine questions
- At the 1987 Special Olympics World Summer Games in Indiana, 38 athletes competed in the equestrian sports competition; one year later equestrian was added as an official Special Olympics sport.
- Today there are at least 10,877 athletes from 73 Special Olympics programs competing in equestrian.
- Fifteen Minnesota delegations offer athletes the opportunity to train and compete in equestrian sports.