Olympic pioneer Hua determined to improve equestrianism’s image in China

Q&A

Michelle Wang (pictured), founder and CEO of Equuleus International Riding Club, the only strategic partner of British Horse Society in China, and equestrian supervisor at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games What are the main challenges for developing equestrian athletes in China?

To develop the sport in China and sustainably cultivate top riders, we must establish a solid foundation, just like building a pyramid. There should be a sound system for cultivating riders, coaches and other talents in the sport, and the emergence of world-class riders should not be random. On the other hand, although equestrianism has been dramatically developing in China, the shortage of talent is a big challenge. Not only riders, but also coaches, grooms ... the list goes on.

We will run programs with as many grassroots riding schools as possible. And we will connect these riding schools with children from wealthy families but also children from local communities who can’t afford to have lessons.”

Is equestrianism an elitist sport?

I strongly agree with Alex Hua Tian’s idea that equestrianism should not be considered as elitist. Although there are many differences between China and countries that boast a developed equestrian industry, we can still learn from them to promote the popularity of the sport. In those countries, people have diversified choices of joining different levels of equestrian competitions nearly every week. Equestrianism should be an easily accessible sport to the people.

Also, the nobility of equestrianism does not rely on whether it is a sport for elite or rich people. Instead, the reason why it boasts the highest spiritual nobility is because equestrianism is about the relationship and connection between humans and animals, about the merits of human civilization and about horsemanship and courage.