The Longines Global Champions Tour presents itself as an annual celebration of show-jumping in the equestrian calendar. With 15 of the best locations around the world, the finest of the field’s talents, and a glistening prize purse at hand, the LGCT is no less of a spectacle. In arranging the same, the event seems to have fetched a new generation of talent and equestrian enthusiasm.

Increasing popularity has always been a familiarity for equestrian sports. About $30 million each year in horse riding and 200k more exclusively in sport in recent times has been a testament to the stance. And today as the next season proceeds, LGCT’s adorable update ahead of its comeback in April 2024 may add more to the numbers.

LGCT showcases the next generation of equestrian enthusiasm

On the 14th of January, the LGCT Instagram team shared an adorable update from what seemed like an equestrian camp event for little kids. The clip showed the LGCT sign displayed in bold on an open ground and an area filled with little ponies, kids, and managing staff. “The stars of the next generation showing us how it’s done,” LGCT captioned as two toddlers passed by on little ponies sporting helmets and warming smiles.

The event seemed to be an invitational camp to invite newer interest in LGCT or equestrian sports as a whole. However, LGCT doesn’t run alone on the goal. FEI for several years has worked to add more diversity to the sport and increase youth involvement. Programs and contests, the organization has it all set in order.

An aim to increase involvement

Back in 2022, the FEI introduced Youth Equestrian Games to increase youth involvement as well as to help provide a solid ground to learn. “To educate and support the young generation of equestrians is vital for the sustainability of our sport,” FEI President Ingmar de Vos said. He further added that the program was to help educate the new generation and provide an opportunity to enrich. Following along, the USDF joined forces to support talented young riders through USDF FEI Youth Clinic Series.

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The initiative has top riders lending knowledge through private lessons, theory sessions, and auditing for young talents. Moreover, to support children from underprivileged backgrounds, FEI has also introduced Youth Riding Camps. With youth programs or otherwise, the sport has seen considerable participation. According to a 2016 report, there was an 83% increase in competitions and young talent participation. Thus with exciting competitions, programs, and awareness, equestrian industry has persistently seen an upward graph.

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