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Equestrian sport is in the midst of a transformative period. We stand at a crossroads, where we can no longer ignore the challenges the sport faces. The world of equestrianism and the handling of horses has long been shaped by old traditions, limiting beliefs, and a culture where horses are often forced into our molds and ambitions. But the world is changing, and we must change with it.
t’s time to ask the question: “How do we create a sport where the well-being and welfare of horses take center stage?” The truth is that many of the methods and norms that have been part of the sport for decades no longer hold up. We have the knowledge and tools to do better—and it is our responsibility to use them.
Change starts with us as adults. It’s about taking responsibility for the culture we create and the values we pass on to the next generation. It’s time to redefine what success means and how we treat our horses.
It’s often said that children don’t do what we say—they do what we do. The same applies to horses. They learn through our actions and behavior, which is why we, as adults, set the standard. We bear the responsibility for fostering a culture in equestrian sport where respect, understanding, and horse welfare form the foundation.
"It is we as adults—parents, trainers, and experienced riders—who bear the responsibility of demonstrating how to treat horses with respect and empathy."
Camilla Borregaard
In December, I came across a video from a major show jumping event where a pony rider consistently kicked or struck her pony with a whip before every jump. The video went viral—not as criticism, but as a showcase of an impressive performance. I believe this is a problem. When children and young people see this behavior being accepted—even praised—they learn that it is normal.
However, I don’t see this as the children’s fault. It is we as adults—parents, trainers, and experienced riders—who bear the responsibility of demonstrating how to treat horses with respect and empathy. We cannot expect children to learn proper horsemanship if we, as adults, do not lead by example.
We must have the courage to look at ourselves and ask: “What kind of culture are we creating in equestrian sport?” How can we become better role models for the next generation? It starts with us, and it starts now.
Camilla has been deeply involved in the equestrian world for many years, both as an ambitious competitive rider, dressage judge, and instructor. Together with her parents, she runs Stald Borregaard near Hadsten, north of Aarhus.
As her passion lies in building connections with horses and fostering harmony between humans and animals, Camilla has pursued further education in animal telepathy, Human Design, and as a Clearing Master.
In her articles, Camilla emphasizes the importance of understanding that horses are just as unique as humans, and therefore, there is no universal approach to training an individual horse. One of her primary goals is to inspire riders, encourage reflection, and increase awareness to strengthen the bond between rider/horse owner and horse. Learning is a lifelong journey, and both the world and the equestrian sport are constantly evolving. “One size fits all” is no longer applicable—neither for us humans nor for our horses.
Today, it is unthinkable to use physical punishment as a method of discipline for children, yet in equestrian sport, it is sadly still seen in practice. Harsh methods such as kicking, hitting, and sharp aids are often excused with phrases like: “It’s necessary.” or “Dressage is hard.”
I have seen it myself—riders who, in frustration, strike their horses when they get startled or do not respond as the rider wishes. Trainers who demand stronger aids or more pressure if the horse does not react quickly enough. Yet, we often hear: “That’s just how the sport is.” or “It’s part of being a rider.”
In my view, this is not true. Harsh and ugly methods are never necessary. It is a choice! A choice we make. And we can make a different choice. Today, we have tools and knowledge that enable us to train horses in a way that is based on trust, understanding, and cooperation. We must have the courage to take responsibility for our actions and stop excusing or normalizing the use of harsh methods in equestrian sport.
We all fail. We get frustrated, and we make mistakes. But that doesn’t mean we can’t learn and do better. True development happens when we dare to face our mistakes and take responsibility for them.
Equestrian sport is marked by a culture of perfectionism and performance, where results and trophies often come before the well-being of the horses. We see it in dressage, where young horses are rapidly transformed into "gait machines," pushing themselves through training at the expense of their own health. We see it in show jumping, where horses are pressured to perform without regard for their mental and physical needs.
For me, it is not impressive to see a horse go from being a regular young horse to being forced into an unnatural frame within a year. It is not a success when the rider is sitting like they are on water skis, holding their balance in the double bridle while the horse struggles through the exercises. It’s a tragedy.
Far too many horses are lost because we push them too hard and too fast. They get injured, discarded, or put down because we insist on making them fit into our molds and expectations.
We say things like: “The horse should be able to handle this,” or “It must just accept it.” But who are we really doing this for? It’s not for the horses—it’s for ourselves. We must redefine our goals and prioritize the well-being of the horses.
"We must be better role models for the next generation."
Camilla Borregaard
Success in equestrian sport has for far too long been measured by performance, rosettes, and impressive results. But true success is about so much more than that. It’s about well-being, relationships, and joy—for both horse and rider. For me, success is when the horse thrives in its work. When we ride with love, patience, and respect. When we listen to the horse’s signals and meet it as a unique individual with its own needs and boundaries.
Success is not about what we get the horse to do, but how we do it. Is our riding characterized by cooperation or control? Is the horse with us because it wants to be— or because it fears the consequences if it doesn’t do what we demand?
"Success for me is about our horses living long, happy lives in harmony with us."
Camilla Borregaard
We must begin to ask ourselves the questions: Are we doing well together? Are we happy together? Are we having fun together?
When we place the well-being of the horses at the center, we create an equestrian sport that is sustainable, beautiful, and filled with joy for all involved.
READ ALSO: We need to stop putting horses in boxes!
Change does not happen overnight. It requires time, reflection, and a willingness to do things differently, but it starts with us. We are responsible for creating a new culture in equestrian sport—a culture where horses are not seen as tools, but as partners.
We must work on:
The world is changing, and equestrian sport must keep pace. We have the tools and knowledge to do better – now it is up to us to take responsibility.
Equestrian sport calls for change. We can no longer ignore the issues that affect the sport or excuse our actions with old norms and traditions. The horses deserve better. Change requires courage. It requires us to face our own mistakes and take responsibility for them. But it is also an opportunity. An opportunity to create an equestrian sport where well-being, joy, and cooperation are at the center.
Let’s lead the way. Let’s take the first step toward a future where equestrian sport not only looks beautiful—but also feels right for both horse and rider. The horses deserve it, and we can do it!
With love,
Camilla
READ ALSO: Dominance & Horse training: We should let go of the old ideas of dominance and leadership
