Is loose jumping damaging young horses? Olympic champion joins the debate

Jennifer Donald's avatar
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Published In Features
Top Canadian showjumper Eric Lamaze, pictured here riding one of his most famous horses, Hickstead, at WEG 2010, shares his views on loose jumping young horses
Eric Lamaze riding Hickstead
(Image credit: Trevor Meeks)

The subject of loose jumping always seems to ignite healthy debate among breeders and producers – it’s a tried and tested formula in the production process of teaching many young horses to think for themselves, but can it also be detrimental to their health and wellbeing?

Many top names have spoken out on the subject from both sides of the argument and when we caught up with the Olympic gold medallist Eric Lamaze (pictured) recently, he revealed he had firm opinions about loose jumping horses when they’re younger.

Jennifer Donald
Jennifer Donald
Showjumping and racing editor

Jennifer is passionate at showjumping and her role as H&H’s showjumping editor has taken her around the world reporting from shows and interviewing riders, connections and those involved behind the scenes. Since joining H&H from BBC Sport in 2005, she has written on every subject across the equestrian sphere — from turnout rugs to stable management — and has interviewed gold medallists, world champions and winners galore. She also has first-hand experience of working in the equestrian industry as a riding instructor and yard manager.