The Olympics has been around for years and it is a thrilling time that many viewers anticipate all year to watch. It is when the most talented athletes, all around the world, come together and compete. Their are many different events and many of them are mind blowing. The amount of talent that all these people bring is almost unbelievable. Each event is unique and this event allows people to live their dreams. Among these athletes are some of the best equestrians in the world. Yes, that's right, horses at the Olympics! There are many different events offered at the Olympics for equestrians and it is just incredible to watch. These are the equestrian events that are being held right now at the 2021 Olympics in Tokyo:

1. Dressage Grand Prix 

Grand Prix Level dressage is the highest level of dressage. Like other levels of dressage, the horse and rider are judged on correct movements, the eagerness of the horse, and the success of the rider’s ques. Typically, there is a pattern each contestant has to complete, but they also offer a freestyle option. This means the contestant can create their own pattern and movements. There are quite a few movements that are required like an extended trot, a collected walk, and a different variety of halts. The contestants are grouped in teams (each person on a team competes individually) or they are an individual contestant, just with the rider and their horse. 

 2. Eventing Dressage 

Eventing is a combination of dressage, show jumping and cross country. It is run on one day at the lower levels but increases to the higher levels, across a two or three day format. It can be described as a triathlon of riding with its three parts of competition. During this event, there are many different obstacles you have to perform, all while racing against the clock. There can be water crossing, logs to jump, hedges, and more. Then they do tie dressage into it also. There is a lot happening during eventing and it takes some of the finest riders and horses to compete. 

3. Jumping 

Show jumping is a competitive equestrian event. A horse and rider are required to jump different obstacles, usually racing against the clock. The obstacles are set up specific to certain shows and they have a pattern designed that each contestant must complete. The horse has to be guided by the rider and it is all about timing. You have to have just the right speed, body position, and signal your horse at the right moment to succeed in jumping. 

These are brief explanations on all the events, but it doesn't even begin to explain the talent that goes into them. These events are stretched out over numerous days and times. They consist of different styles and classes, but each contestant is striving to be the best. It is magical to see a horse and rider have such a bond to compete at these levels. The 2021 Olympics will be continuing until August 7th, so tune in to see these athletes give it their all! It is interesting to see horses in such a different realm than we are used to, but it sure amazing! We wish all the contestants the best and can't wait to see who is crowned the winner! 

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