Sociocultural changes in canadian equestrian sport

Abstract

This paper explores the characteristics of the equine industry in Canada and how it has evolved since the introduction of the Canadian Pony Club in 1934. Aspects of equestrian sport in Canada are examined using data from equine industry documents such as reports and program material, equine industry media including websites, online magazines and blogs, and semi-structured interviews with current and former female equestrians who participated in equestrian sport during their youth. This is a retrospective study. Interviewees were members of the Canadian Pony Club at some point during their youth. The paper draws on the theoretical insights of Pierre Bourdieu, particularly his understanding of fields of cultural production. Using this theory, changes that occurred in the Canadian equestrian industry beginning in the late 1960s are identified. The use of Pony Club as a starting point for all young equestrians in Canada has declined, new competition circuits have developed, and discipline specific specialization is more common. Pony Club in Canada was traditionally an organization that brought together young equestrians from all socioeconomic classes. However, today it is often recognized for the limited financial investment it requires, rather than the education and training it provides. The value of Pony Club in Canada as an organization that produces cultural capital has declined. The degree of socioeconomic stratification among equestrians is more defined and discernible due to the current structure of competitive equestrian sport in Canada.