One year ago, some students in Shanghai could only learn about equestrian sports on TV; now they are fully dressed up for riding on the field. On December 1, the students showcased their honed horse-riding skills in a performance show.

At the Roborant Equestrian Club in southern Shanghai’s Fengxian District, 22 bright and brave school students became dashing young horse riders, showcasing their training results to the public.

The students are among the 324 school boys and girls across Shanghai’s schools involved in the “equestrian sports on campus” campaign, which provides teachers, students and parents a chance to get to know equestrian sports. The municipal education authorities have also compiled popular books on equestrian sports and organized related lectures.

The sports are no longer something only the wealthy elite can afford. Over the past year, 15 primary schools across the city have been piloting equestrian teaching and there are so far 15 equestrian school teams composed of 150 children. At the same time, more kids have become interested in equestrian activities.

During their time playing with the horses, the students have also experienced the significance of care, coordination, respect, responsibility, courage and tenacity, said a teacher.

(Photos provided by Shanghai Municipal Education Commission)