Show jumping is a new equestrian sport. Until the eighteenth century there wasn't a need for horses to jump fences. Then England enforced the Enclosure Act. 

The act brought boundaries and fences to the common ground in many areas of the country. The ground was dispersed to the wealthy landowners.  

 Fox hunters who wished to continue  their sport now had to find horse that could jump the obstacle, and they were successful.

There was a parade of competitors held in France. Jumping across the country made it difficult for spectator to watch.

In 1869 fences appeared in arena and the sport of “horse leaping” began. I first deputed at Dublin Horse Show.

Fifteen years later leaping classes were featured at Britain horse shows. By 1900 most major shows featured leaping classes. Women had their own classes and jumped side-saddle.

At the end of the nineteenth century Captain Fiederico Caprilli an Italian instructor heavily influenced the world of jumping.

The Italian Army invited officers from other countries to ride and study at their cavalry school, including officers from the United States.

The first show jumping competition was held in 1912 at the Olympics Games in England. The rules were not clear how to score. Some judges scored on faults and others on style.

Jumping side-saddle

A Calvary Officer Jumping a Car

2008 Olympic Show Jumping

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