New Study: Perception Of Horse Sports Through Photos

A team of researchers are studying how equestrians react to visual representations of equine athletes in sport.

At a time where the social license to ride and compete and overall horse welfare are top of mind for equestrians around the globe, a team from Hartpury University, EQuerry Co. and Via Nova Training want to understand how images of competition impact the overall perception of horse sport, according to a media release.

Show jumping, three-day eventing and dressage have been included in the modern Olympic Games since the 1900s. But the conversation around ethics, welfare and general public perception of the treatment and care of horses in sport have never been more critical than it is today.

These researches will explore how people perceive images of horses in Olympic sport and will include responses from those who identify as equestrians themselves, the release said. Participants will take part in a survey where their responses will be collected and reviewed by researchers.

The study will use a photo-elicitation approach, and participants will view randomly selected images from the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Images from dressage, eventing and show jumping will include moments such as warm-up ring training, veterinary inspections, competition and post-event interactions. Participants will then be asked to share their thoughts and feelings.

Researchers plan to analyze which images evoke positive, neutral or negative perceptions, and want to understand the beliefs driving those reactions, the release said.

The study aims to identify:

• What visual cues contribute to positive perceptions of horse sport?

• How do different groups of equestrians interpret the same images?

• What role does the media and social platforms play in shaping opinions?

“Understanding how imagery shapes perceptions within the equestrian community is essential to safeguarding the sport’s broader public image,” the release reads. “This research is not about confirming what we already know – it’s about discovering what we don’t. By moving beyond assumptions and revealing how riders, owners, and fans interpret visual cues around welfare and ethics, stakeholders will be better positioned to address concerns, develop effective communication strategies, and ensure equestrian disciplines remain trusted and ethically grounded Olympic sports.”

Those interested in participating in the study can do so by following this link.