Is horseback riding really a sport? Some people say yes and others say no. I think so 100%. What do you think? Horseback riding is very passionate and meaningful to me. The definition of a sport is “an individual or group competitive activity involving physical exertion or skill, governed by rules, and sometimes engaged in professionally.” Horseback riding is exactly what “sport” means.

People say “it’s easy.” “It takes no skill.” “You just sit there.” “You’re not an athlete.” This is all false information! “Have you ever trusted someone that’s 1000 pounds and can’t have a conversation with?” “Have you ever raced full speed to a solid obstacle?” “Have you ever jumped something that is taller than you?” So before you think about saying horseback riding is not a sport think to yourself, “Have I ever felt a 1000 pound animals’ feelings and listened to them without speaking?” Horseback riding is most defiantly a sport!

~Katie Caldwell