I think there’s a stereotype that hunter-jumper riders are all prim and proper, with their studied positions and George Morris-approved conservative turnout, and eventers are the balls-to-the-wall bonkers ones.
But in the past few weeks that Eventing Nation’s sister site Jumper Nation has been up and running, I’ve been observing their culture like a social scientist and, lemme tell you, these people are NOT normal, either. When it comes to “insanity in the middle, ” they may not take the crazy cake but they sure give us eventers a run for our money.
Allow me to make my case with the aid of a few recent Instagram photos from Wellington’s centerpiece show series of the year, the Winter Equestrian Festival.
They’re ballsy.
5yo Michaela and Regi #wef2016 #showjumper #grandprix #horses #pferde #springpferde #paarden #springpaarden photo by @illuminating.photography A photo posted by Kama Godek (@kamagodek) on
They aren’t afraid to get wet.
They express affection in weird ways.
Chloe,Allie and Lielle !! A photo posted by Mario Apolito (@mcar65) on
They make bold fashion choices.
For real, though.
Yes, this is the Kent Farrington who is ranked #3 in the world #greatcharitychallenge #WEF2016 A photo posted by Farah at Equine Photoz (@equinephotoz) on
They’re prone to random acts of dancing.
Having fun at HITS Ocala!! #teamwatersedge A video posted by Waters Edge Stables (@watersedgestables) on
They like to turn up a cold one at the end of a long day.
They appreciate a good adrenaline rush.
Martina Zuluaga and Valentina Rocha. A photo posted by Mario Apolito (@mcar65) on
Their horses are goofballs.
And most of all, just like eventers, they’re crazy about their sport. (Emphasis on “crazy.”)
Never a dull moment with this gang… Never ever…. Congrats miss @sammy_palermo !! You were a rock star! ❤️ you!! #wef A photo posted by @arose72 on
For more hunter/jumper news, show results, features and silliness, check out Jumper Nation!
