These Paris 2024 Olympic Games are the last chance to see horseback riding in the modern pentathlon event! Since Tokyo and the controversy surrounding Germany's Annika Schleu, the discipline had been on probation, due to the risk of animal abuse. In addition to swimming, fencing and laser-running, athletes have to show jump with a horse drawn a few minutes before the start of the event, which they therefore don't know.
In fact, the international federation announced the disappearance of this part after the Paris Games, exchanging it for parkour. For some, this principle of drawing lots was unfair, depending on the level of the horses, especially as not all athletes have the same access to riding, depending on the infrastructure in their country. The treatment of animals was also called into question, with not all riders respecting their mounts during the event.
Where can you practice modern pentathlon, the 5-sport discipline, in Paris and the Ile-de-France region?
Not sure which sport to choose? Then try the modern pentathlon, which offers five sports in one, including riding, swimming, shooting, fencing and running! The region and its clubs welcome you to learn how. [Read more]
To limit controversy this year, the number and height of obstacles were reduced. A vote was also held to find a replacement event, and the Ninja Warrior obstacle course was chosen. The athletes will have to adapt to it, and not all are sure they'll be able to continue... In the meantime, what could be better for equitation than to finish in the grounds of the Château de Versailles ?
Location
Palace of Versailles
Place d'Armes
78000 Versailles