Portugal

About the Federation

The main aim of Working Equitation competitions is to combine the competitive spirit of an equestrian discipline based on the classical riding of each country with the preservation of its traditions, particularly in the use of costumes and harnesses. The first competitions began in Italy with the maremmani and in France with the Camargue riders, and soon reached Spain with the Doma Vaquera competitors and Portugal. In 1999 the first National Championship was organized with 7 rounds. The growing interest among competitors and the public led the Portuguese Equestrian Federation to create three classes (Consecrated Riders, Under-16 Riders and Debutante Horses). In 2004 the number of classes was adjusted to five with the inclusion of the Under-20 and Masters classes (the highest level, requiring Grand Prix exercises). In 2009 the Regional Championships were created, with an increasing number of participants. These initiatives are of great importance in boosting the discipline locally and promoting its practice at national level. A consequence of the success of Working Equitation is its internationalisation - underlining the importance of Portuguese judges, trainers and riders for the growth of the sport.

Organisation

Federação Equestre Portuguesa