Girl Riding: Passion and Sport for Women

Equestrianism was primarily for men for a long time. But things have changed. Now, nearly 80% of enthusiasts are women in France. They are numerous in their love for equestrianism.

Main ideas to remember

• Equestrianism is a highly feminized sport in France, with 80% of licensees being women
• Equestrianism was long reserved for men, with strict regulations
• It was in the 20th century that equestrianism truly democratized for women
• The rise of leisure and competitive equestrianism has favored this feminization
• Despite these advances, challenges remain to achieve parity at the highest level

The rise of women's equestrianism in history

The practice of horseback riding was reserved for men for a long time. Horses symbolized power and dominance. Women had to fight to be able to ride. Their access to equestrianism has always been limited by strict rules.

A regulated women's equestrianism in the Middle Ages

In the Middle Ages, only women of high rank sometimes had this honor, but in a special position. It was only much later, in the 19th and 20th centuries, that women began to ride. They started to shine, especially in the circus world.

Marginal breakthroughs of women on horseback until the last century

For centuries, women's equestrianism was strictly limited. But recently, women's equestrianism has really taken off. This change owes much to the early women who broke the barriers of this male-dominated world.

The history of women's equestrianism is marked by unique successes. Women have advanced step by step, defying gender norms. Thanks to their perseverance, women's equestrianism is now thriving.

The shift of the 70s

In the 1970s, equestrianism gained popularity. It became more accessible for middle-class women. With an approach that highlighted ponies, young girls began to practice this sport. A name was even given to this phenomenon: the “Poly Syndrome.” By the end of the century, 75% of practitioners were women in France.

The “Poly Syndrome” at the origin of the feminization of equestrianism

The “Poly Syndrome” explains why young girls loved equestrianism. Introducing ponies made this sport more accessible for them. This changed the face of equestrianism, increasing the number of women from 25% to 75% by the end of the last century.

Equestrian girl: competitive sport or leisure?

In France, 80% of riders are women. However, they are fewer in high-level competitions. Some believe that equestrianism is mainly a leisure activity for them. This is due to the difficulty of managing everything: family and sports career.

The so-called “leisure” equestrianism appeals to many girls. For them, it is a way to relax and be closer to nature. It is a way to live their passion without the stress of competition.

However, competitive equestrianism is often seen as a male world. Girls who want to succeed must stand out. But there are exceptions, with well-known champions like Pénélope Leprévost and Charlotte Dujardin.

Despite the progress of women's equestrianism, there are still obstacles to overcome. Achieving true equality in high-level sport remains a challenge. Nevertheless, equestrianism remains a common passion in France, whether for competition or for fun.

High-level female riders who have made history

The high-level female riders face several challenges. But some manage to shine in equestrianism. They make history by achieving great titles despite a predominantly male environment. They inspire new generations of girls to ride.

Pénélope Leprévost

Pénélope Leprévost, a Frenchwoman, reached great heights at the 2016 Olympics. Her gold medal propelled her to the status of a role model for young girls passionate about equestrianism. She paved the way for high-level female riders through her success.

Alexandra Ledermann

Alexandra Ledermann was the first woman to shine at the European Championship. Her victory highlighted the great female champions in equestrianism and encouraged young riders. She opened the way for others to follow.

Charlotte Dujardin

Charlotte Dujardin, a British rider, is a global pillar of dressage. She changed the perception of women's equestrianism with her extraordinary performances. She proves to everyone that high-level female riders can shine.

These great female champions in equestrianism have overcome obstacles to become the best. They are inspiring role models for future generations of female riders.

Statistics on women's equestrianism in France

Today, equestrianism has many followers in France. Nearly 700,000 people hold a license. Interestingly, 80% of these licensees are women. In this sport, women and men are almost equal.

However, at the high level, women are fewer. Only 25% of professionals are women. Female riders find it challenging to compete equally with male riders.

The figures show the position of women in equestrianism in France. They are numerous, over 80%. However, at the professional levels, the situation changes. Only 25% of professionals are women.

This raises questions about women's equestrianism in the country. There are challenges but also interesting opportunities.

Equestrian girl: a mixed practice with challenges

Equestrianism allows everyone, men and women, to compete together. But women are less represented in elite competitions. This is despite their significant numbers in the sport.

The paradox of female underrepresentation at the highest level

Women face unique difficulties. They must manage their family life and their equestrian career. This partly explains the observed imbalance.

Pénélope Leprévost and other champions have, however, broken this ceiling. They have shown that sometimes, women can even surpass men. This demonstrates that mixed equestrianism can succeed at the highest level.

The figures highlight this phenomenon. Despite their numbers, high-level women are not in large numbers. This raises questions about the unique obstacles faced by elite female riders.

Conclusion

Equestrianism has long been seen as a sport for women, with nearly 80% of practitioners in France. However, women are not as represented at the top. This is due to the challenges in achieving parity.

Champions like Pénélope Leprévost, Alexandra Ledermann, and Charlotte Dujardin have broken these barriers. They are examples for young girls who dream of competing. Their success shows that equestrianism offers equal opportunities for men and women.

For years, women have shown their strength and determination in this sport. Even though there is still work to be done for parity, equestrianism demonstrates the progress of women in sports. This sport was often dominated by men.