Since the discipline of show jumping appeared in the Olympic Games, the obstacles and their designs have greatly evolved. What are the major changes that have occurred over the years in the construction of the courses?
Initially made of simple tree branches, the obstacles have become works of art that now celebrate the host city of the Olympics. There is no regulatory standard. Everything is left to the discretion of the Federations via the course designers, and the creativity and imagination of the builders and organizers have grown with each Olympic edition.
A brief retrospective to measure the progress made.
Today's obstacles no longer resemble those of the past.
In 1920, for the Antwerp Olympic Games in Belgium, the obstacles were particularly simple, made of raw wood and often decorated with a bit of greenery. Below is probably the most elaborate of all at the time: an empty barrier but adorned with hedges on each side.
Photo Credit : FEI
For the edition held in Berlin (Germany) in 1936, the spirit of simplicity was maintained with an oxer made entirely of tree branches placed as they were on standards. Design was not a priority, and the authenticity of this outdoor sport remained at the heart of the course.
Photo Credit : FEI
A little later, in 1972 in Munich (Germany), real rails began to appear, which tend to be the standard ones used today. Branches were replaced by painted rails and obstacles that were more "filled in" (filled between the standards).
Photo Credit : FEI
It was in 1980, during the Moscow Olympic Games (Russia), that we first saw Olympic symbols appear, marking the rise of the marketing aspect of the global sporting event: the event's identity was affirmed by displaying the Olympic rings.
We are in Russia, and the political will to assert the identity of this "neutral" event during the Cold War is noticeable.
Photo Credit : FEI
As the editions progressed, such as in Seoul (South Korea) in 1988, more aesthetic designs began to emerge, featuring elaborate designs that evoke several symbolic signs of the host city. The sport entered the era of marketing and communication with the aim of enhancing the identity of these iconic locations and these "extraordinary" courses.
The new power of television was noticeable : the elements were generally massive, as they were designed to be seen even from afar and on small screens.
Photo Credit : FEI
In the early 2000s, obstacle designs diversified further: marketing had gained significance in the sport, but while it is now common to see brands on obstacles at national and international competitions, brands are strictly prohibited on the course at the Olympic Games.
Cities therefore focus on artistic and thematic designs to promote themselves, as marketing also concerns territories: how can they "carry" the "city" brand beyond borders?
Photo Credit : FEI
Obstacles have become marketing tools for cities
No doubt, the Olympic show jumping event has become a way for host cities to celebrate their culture and the unique aspects of their country. We are talking about visual experiences aimed at spectators and viewers to create unforgettable memories, but above all, to make a lasting impression, both politically and economically, on a global scale.
Each edition always has its iconic obstacle: for example, we remember the surprising "sumo" in Tokyo (Japan) in 2020 or the emblematic Big Ben on the London (Great Britain) course in 2012. A look back...
Sydney Olympic Games - 2000
Aboriginal culture and nature take center stage
We particularly remember this edition in Australia, which marked the entry into the 21st century.
On the course, we recognize constructions reminiscent of the country-continent's culture and its unique natural landscapes... We were close to seeing kangaroos and koalas, symbolic animals of the country, wandering on the course next to the Sydney Opera House, which was placed at the center... We also saw totems, an ode to the original communities, iconic buildings, and the famous boomerang, a symbol of Australia and Aboriginal culture.
Athens Olympic Games - 2004
An opportunity to recall the source of Olympism
For this edition in Greece, the historical Greek roots were obviously highlighted: great emphasis was placed on recalling the strength and power of the historical basin of Olympism. Riders and horses showcased their talent by jumping obstacles inspired by ancient Greek architecture, with columns and partial reproductions of historic temples, ideas from mythological characters, and classical motifs from the Golden Age.
Beijing Olympic Games - 2008
A political dimension for equestrian events held in Hong Kong
Beijing, the capital of China, left no doubt about the city's ties with Hong Kong through the design of its obstacles. Chinese traditions were highlighted on the Hong Kong course - where the equestrian events were held - with colorful and elaborate constructions. We saw the Great Wall of China, a magnificent red dragon, as well as typical pagodas and kites. This was also an opportunity to reaffirm that Hong Kong is now a Chinese territory.
London Olympic Games - 2012
The city plays on its iconic symbols
The British also pulled out all the stops to offer riders and television viewers a course facing the dome of St Paul's Cathedral. London culture was highlighted, notably with a typical English red bus tagged with "London 2012." A tribute was also paid to the city's architecture and several of its historic monuments: we found the iconic Big Ben and the immense Tower of London. Not to mention the typical red telephone booths of the city.
Rio Olympic Games - 2016
A colorful and joyful carnival for a country that made it its showcase
The vibrant colors and particularly festive energy of the Rio de Janeiro edition could only represent Brazil. The obstacles celebrated the Christ the Redeemer, a global symbol of the city, and included elements of the Rio carnival, typical beaches, and some motifs meant to represent the Amazon rainforest. Local traditions were represented, and the positive atmosphere of the country, in crisis, was meant to be conveyed around the world.
Tokyo Olympic Games - 2020
Without an audience, Japan focuses on television
The most recent edition of the Olympic Games offered a combination of modernity and Japanese traditions, clearly visible on the magnificent Tokyo course. Despite an especially empty arena due to the global health context (COVID-19), the city created a beautiful atmosphere on the course intended for television audiences worldwide. Cherry blossoms and Japanese gardens offered a gentle contrast to the rigor of samurai and modern, particularly angular and pointed architectures.
Paris Olympic Games - 2024
The secret is well kept...
The obstacle course design for the French edition is not yet known. It is even jealously guarded, showing how the organizers now aim to surprise the world. It is expected that Parisian monuments, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Pyramid, or the Arc de Triomphe, will be highlighted. Symbols of French culture - will we see a baguette and a beret? - should also be honored on the course set up in the park of the Palace of Versailles.
While Olympic obstacles have now become communication showcases for host cities, the safety of horses and riders remains the priority for sports authorities and course designers, who are the ultimate decision-makers. And that's a good thing.
