The Resurgence of Equestrian Sport: A Post-WWII Revival
Hungarian Equestrian Sport Thrives in 2024
Hungarian equestrian sport is currently thriving, reaching a peak not seen since World War II, according to Vilmos Lázár, the president of the Hungarian Equestrian Federation. “The Paris Olympics will mark the return of a Hungarian competitor for the first time since 1996. As a sports official, this is a milestone. When I assumed leadership of the federation in 2009, securing an Olympic quota seemed like a utopia, given our position far from the top of world rankings in all disciplines except carriage driving. Hungarian equestrian sport hasn’t been in such a favorable state since World War II. This provides a robust foundation upon which we can confidently build,” he stated, celebrating rider Balázs Kaizinger’s participation in Paris.
Vilmos Lázár, a 12-time world champion in two-in-hand driving, emphasized that the Olympic quota is a tangible measure of performance. While acknowledging progress in junior events, he noted a more significant gap in adults. However, he highlighted the proximity to qualification in the other two Olympic disciplines, dressage and show jumping.
“This year, the centenary of the federation’s foundation will be the main focus, setting the tone for the entire season,” Lázár announced. The opening event, an equestrian gala on February 28 in Buda Castle, will extend into midnight, commemorating the federation’s 100th anniversary on the 29th. He added that the most prestigious event would be the World Four-in-Hand Championship in Szilvásvárad in September.
Vilmos Lázár highlighted the significance of this year in terms of anniversaries, noting that forty years ago, the Szilvásvárad World Championship marked the sport’s greatest success. He also recalled that the last Hungarian World Championships’ gold medal in four-in-hand is approaching its twentieth anniversary.
The World Four-in-Hand Driving Championships will take place from September 4 to 8, providing another opportunity to showcase Hungary’s thriving equestrian sport. This year promises to be an exciting one for equestrian enthusiasts and athletes, as the sport continues to reach new heights and achievements.
