Ring Riding in Middelburg, Zeeland
Hooves pound the sand and nostrils flare as the horses run full speed toward the ring – an oh-so-small ring. This is the age old sport of the equestrian ring rider. A traditional sport from long ago still played out today in Middelburg, Zeeland, a province in Holland.
Bareback Rider – Skilled Equestrian
A true test of horsemanship, the rider must be bareback – without the aid of a saddle- and the horse must be colorfully decorated. The ring rider is also dressed in an official costume of white with an orange sash, symbolizing the connection to the royal house.
Women and men join the equestrian festivities
A centuries old horseback riding activity dominated by male equestrians, today, women are allowed to join in the festivities on horseback or with carriages where the man directs the coach and the woman stabs the rings that are hung in various places along the course.
Visit to Middelburg, Zeeland
While I wasn’t able to witness the ring riders in the abbey during my horseback riding vacation in Middelburg, Zeeland, I was able to admire the beautiful Friesian horses that pulled the tourist carriages around Middelburg.
What are your favorite things to do in the Netherlands?
If You Go:
Middelburg, Zeeland Province, Holland
For more information on Ring Riding. For information on Middelburg and Holland.
Bronze Ring Rider photo courtesy of Nancy D. Brown. Additional photos courtesy of Ring Rider website.
This looks like a lot of fun. I’d be in the buggy not on the horse :)