Millions of people tuned into the Olympics over the summer, and now some of those same competitions are coming to New England.
The Big E, located in West Springfield, is one of the largest fairs in the country. It lasts until Sept. 29 and includes concerts and tons of food. But it also includes Equestrian.
In the Olympics, Equestrian events appeared at the ancient Olympic Games as chariot racing, according to the Olympic’s website. But were first featured at the modern Olympic Games in 1900 in Paris.
“Equestrian comprises three disciplines at the Games, with men and women competing on equal terms,” the Olympics website states.
One of those disciplines, jumping, is at The Big E.
The competition includes riders and horses being timed for jumping over obstacles, according to the Olympics website. There are time penalties for each obstacle toppled.
“Agility, technique and harmony between horse and rider are essential,” the website states.
Peter Wylde competed in Equestrian Jumping in the 2004 Olympics in Athens. He will be involved in The Big E’s Hunter Classic Sunday.
The competition began earlier in the week and will conclude on Sunday at 8 a.m.
Other upcoming horse shows at The Big E include The Big E Draft Horse Show, 4-H Horse Show and the Saddlehorse Show.
