Why Elite Riders Are Transitioning to Working Equitation
Why Elite Riders Are Transitioning to Working Equitation
Introduction:
In the world of equestrian sport, trends come and go, but some movements are powerful enough to reshape the way riders think, train, and compete. Over the past decade, Working Equitation has grown from its Iberian roots into one of the most exciting, dynamic, and challenging equestrian disciplines worldwide.
Now, elite riders from across North America are making the leap into Working Equitation. Olympians, dressage masters, eventers, and even reiners are stepping into the arena to test themselves and their horses in this multi-phase sport that celebrates partnership, precision, and versatility.
So what makes Working Equitation so irresistible to top-level riders? And why is Azores Stables proud to stand at the forefront of this movement in Canada? Let’s dive in.
What Is Working Equitation?
Born from the traditional working riding styles of Portugal, Spain, France, and Italy, Working Equitation (WE) was designed to showcase the skills of horse and rider in real-world ranching and agricultural work. Today, it has evolved into an international sport with four phases:
Dressage Phase: Precision and balance in classical dressage movements.
Ease of Handling: A series of obstacles that test agility, responsiveness, and communication.
Speed Phase: The same obstacles, now taken at speed, testing courage and efficiency.
Cattle Phase (optional in some regions): Horse and rider demonstrate skill in moving cattle, keeping the roots of the sport alive.
It’s a discipline that challenges every aspect of horsemanship, which is exactly why elite riders are drawn to it.
1. The Perfect Blend of Art and Athleticism
For top riders, Working Equitation offers a unique combination: the refinement of dressage, the problem-solving of obstacle work, and the adrenaline rush of speed. Unlike single-focus disciplines, WE demands that horses be balanced, brave, and versatile.
Elite riders are often surprised by how rewarding it is to develop a horse across multiple phases. A perfectly executed dressage test is beautiful, but combining that elegance with the thrill of a gallop through obstacles is next-level horsemanship.
2. Developing Horses for the Future
One of the most compelling reasons riders are transitioning to Working Equitation is its value in training horses. The obstacle phases build confidence, adaptability, and trust. Horses learn to think, to listen, and to carry themselves with balance no matter the challenge.
For breeders like Azores Stables, this is a perfect match. Lusitano horses, with their natural collection, intelligence, and bravery, are built for WE. Every obstacle highlights the breed’s strengths and every round confirms why the Lusitano has been the horse of choice for centuries in classical riding.
3. Excitement for Riders and Spectators
Let’s be honest: not every equestrian sport is thrilling to watch unless you’re already a rider. Working Equitation changes that. The speed phase alone has spectators on their feet, cheering as riders gallop through slaloms, bridges, and gates.
This energy is one reason Working Equitation is growing so quickly worldwide. Riders love the challenge; audiences love the action. It’s a win-win.
4. A Culture of Horsemanship
Elite riders often comment on the culture of Working Equitation. While it is competitive, the emphasis is on partnership and skill, not just scores and ribbons. Riders support one another, cheer for one another, and celebrate the artistry of horse and rider working in true harmony.
For many, this feels like a return to the heart of why they started riding in the first place.
5. The Lusitano Advantage
There’s no denying it: the Lusitano horse is at the heart of Working Equitation. Their natural agility, expressive movement, and noble temperament make them uniquely suited to all phases of the sport.
At Azores Stables, this is our focus. Through careful breeding, with stallions like Poison CM, an APSL-approved 4-Star stallion imported from Portugal and thoughtful development, we are producing horses that combine the classical conformation, temperament, and athleticism needed to excel in Working Equitation and beyond.
Azores Stables: Shaping the Future of WE in Canada
Working Equitation is more than a sport at Azores Stables, it’s a mission.
Pam Esteves, with decades of horsemanship experience, international training, and her role as Canadian representative for the U.S. Lusitano Horse Association, is not only a trainer and competitor but also a leader in growing the sport. She serves as President of Central Ontario Working Equitation, Ontario Director for Working Equitation Canada, and is a declared rider for the Aspiring Canadian Working Equitation World Cup team.
Marco Esteves brings vision to the breeding program, selecting bloodlines that produce foals with the balance, courage, and refinement that Working Equitation demands.
Together, they are building more than a facility, they are building Canada’s hub for Lusitano sport, culture, and competition.
Getting Started in Working Equitation
If you’re an elite rider considering the transition, or simply curious about what this sport has to offer, there has never been a better time to get involved.
Azores Stables hosts clinics, schooling days, and shows designed to introduce new riders to the sport while also challenging experienced competitors. Whether your goal is to sharpen your training, expand your horse’s skillset, or compete internationally, Working Equitation offers a rewarding path forward.
Final Thoughts
Working Equitation is not just another equestrian sport, it is a celebration of heritage, partnership, and the artistry of riding. For elite riders, it’s an opportunity to test their skills, expand their horizons, and rediscover the joy of riding in harmony with a horse.
And here in Ontario, Azores Stables is proud to be leading the way.
