Cultural kudos

To consistently take on the world's best, most of China's top riders choose to base themselves in Europe.

The continent's centuries-old equestrian culture is the envy of the scene in China, but organizers of the Shanghai Longines Global Champions Tour have been endeavoring to close the gap.

This year's meet also featured a European-style exhibition area, autograph sessions with star riders and the Shanghai International Equestrian Fair.

In addition, the Sino-Europe Equine Industry Seminar attracted industry experts and riders to compare notes, share ideas and seek business opportunities.

"As the event organizer, we have been focusing on improving the experience of spectators," said Patrick Yang, deputy general manager of Shanghai Juss Sports Development (Group) Co Ltd.

"The European-style equestrian village has been very popular and we upgraded it again this year to deliver more surprises.

"We also invited experts, organizations and representatives of local governments to attend the equine industry seminar to discuss innovations and the development of the Chinese equestrian industry."

The movers and shakers were indeed out in force over the weekend, but organizers are also focused on mobilizing a younger breed of enthusiast.

In January, eight primary schools in Shanghai added equestrianism to their curricula, while a league for primary and middle schools has been established in the city.

"The aim is to let more children embrace and love equestrianism and even become future stars," said Tu Beibei, secretary general of the league.

How kids can maintain a balance between study and riding remains a worry for some parents.

Chinese Olympian Alex Hua Tian, who placed eighth in eventing at the 2016 Rio Olympics, has shown that needn't necessarily be a problem.

He began equestrian training at four before moving to Britain at the age of 11 with his family, attending the prestigious Chafyn Grove School in Salisbury and later the world-renowned Eton College.

Now a new breed of Chinese riders are following suit.

"Many talented young riders give up the sport in the hope of achieving a better academic performance, but I think academic life and an equestrian career can coexist and be mutually beneficial," champion youth rider Shi Tianyang said at the equine industry seminar.

"Equestrianism can teach children self-discipline and how to arrange their lives more efficiently. It also teaches them to be brave enough to face all the difficulties and challenges in their lives."