By CHRISTINE BJERKAN
The equestrian industry is undergoing a transformation.
Historically, the equestrian world mirrored broader societal norms where men occupied dominant roles. This legacy of male dominance perpetuated gender inequalities within the sport, influencing everything from participation rates, to access, to resources, and leadership positions.
But these days, women are playing a pivotal role in reshaping this landscape, such as challenging and redefining the long-standing stereotypes and shaping the future of the equestrian industry as we know it.
Progress and Challenges: Women in Equestrian Sport and Business
Despite historical constraints, women have made significant inroads into the equestrian industry. Equestrian sports are unique in that it is the only Olympic sport where men and women compete directly against each other as equals. However, this has not been without its challenges.
In her work, Katherine Dashper explores the nuances of gender integration in equestrian sports. And while women and men successfully compete side by side, this does not necessarily translate to true equality. Dashper’s research reveals that while equestrian sports provide a platform for gender integration, they also highlight persistent inequalities that need addressing. This comes in subtle forms of discrimination such as unequal media coverage, sponsorship opportunities, and prize money.
Out of the saddle and beyond the competition ring, it is widely recognized that the industry has a significant presence of female professionals and business owners.
For example, anecdotal evidence shows that the number of female students in university equine programs far exceeds that of male students. This suggests that the majority of emerging professionals in the industry are likely to be women. While specific statistics on the gender distribution of entrepreneurs can be challenging to find, women are making their mark on the industry in key sectors, from founding and running breeding operations and stables, to managing large equestrian events.
This is not just a US or European shift—it can be seen in both global and local contexts, with women in various cultures redefining what it means to be a professional equestrian.
Women as Leaders: Impact on Participation and Growth
Ingmar De Vos, President of the FEI, acknowledges the crucial role women play in equestrian sports.
FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez, who oversees global strategies and operations, exemplifies the significant contributions of women in leadership within equestrian organizations.
However, it’s not only within the FEI: Female executives are increasingly influencing the direction of equestrian brands, event management companies, and international equine associations. This drives forward-thinking initiatives that promotes diversity, inclusion, and sustainability.
But why does this matter? Research indicates that showcasing diversity at the top of sports can help increase participation.
For example, the Women’s Sports Foundation and other advocacy groups have documented how representation and support programs have boosted participation from girls. Given that women constitute the majority of participants in equestrian activities, their visibility and representation in sports as well as in leadership roles are crucial for increasing participation across the board.
And I hear you ask—if girls already make up the biggest demographic within the industry, why is it so important to ensure diversity at top?
Because visibility of successful women in the industry serves as powerful role model for the next generation. And dare I say, it’s also good for business.
A UK study on the horse racing industry showed that women often bring innovative approaches to their roles, and emphasize collaboration, sustainability, and community engagement. This is as true in real life as it is on paper, where female leaders in the British horseracing industry have been instrumental in implementing policies that have led to significant changes in how the industry operates, such as more equitable hiring practices to create supportive environments for female jockeys and trainers.
The same study showed that women who had access to mentors and professional development opportunities were more likely to ascend to leadership roles within the industry. Young girls seeing women excel as top-level competitors and business owners are inspired to pursue their own dreams, contributing to a more balanced and dynamic industry.
While this ‘role model effect’ is important, it must be part of a broader, systemic effort to create inclusive and equitable environments.
On a whole, it’s known that female leadership breaks stereotypes and ensures representation of the majority’s needs. With first-hand experience, women are poised to take the lead on creation and incorporation of marketing. Their outreach strategies resonate with a larger audience, and advocate for inclusive programs ensuring economic barriers does not hinder participation.
This not only benefits the individuals involved, but also contributes to the overall growth and vitality of the sport for all genders.
The Future of Women in the Equestrian Industry
Women in the equestrian industry are not just breaking barriers—they are redefining the very fabric of the sport and business.
As societal attitudes towards gender roles continue to evolve, the equestrian world is likely to see increased gender parity. Efforts to address the subtle forms of discrimination and inequality highlighted by researchers like Dashper will be crucial in this progression.
Moreover, as more women ascend to leadership positions within the industry, they will be in a position to effect meaningful change. Their influence can drive policies and practices that promote equality, sustainability, and inclusivity, ensuring that the equestrian industry continues to evolve in positive ways.
By challenging traditional stereotypes, advocating for equality, and bringing innovative approaches to the industry, women are paving the way for a more inclusive and dynamic future—not just in business, but also for our sports.
And as the equestrian world continues to embrace these changes, it will stand as a testament to the power of diversity and the endless possibilities that arise when everyone has a seat at the table.
About the Author: Christine Bjerkan is the Founder & CEO of EQuerry / Co.
Sources for this article:
- Together, yet still not equal? Sex integration in equestrian sport, by Katherine Dashper
- Gender and Sports within the Equine Sector – A Comparative Perspective, by Susanna Hedenborg
- Changes and variations in patterns of gender relations in equestrian sports during the second half of the twentieth century, by Susanna Hedenborg
- Chapter 24: Women as leaders and managers in sports: understanding key career enablers and constraints in the British horseracing industry, by Kate Clayton-Hathway and Ulrike Fasbender
- Introduction to Equestrian Cultures in Global and Local Contexts, by Miriam Adelman and Kirrilly Thompson
- Routledge Handbook of Global Sport, Chapter: Equestrian, By Susanna Hedenborg and Gertrud Pfister
