#WeRideTogether Open Classics: A Blend of Sport and Advocacy
The #WeRideTogether Open Classics event is more than just a display of equestrian prowess—it stands as a beacon of hope and change within the sporting world. Celebrated at Thunderbird Show Park, this year's event boasted a record entry of 117 horse and rider pairs, a testament to the initiative's growing influence.
Riding for a Cause
This competition, part of the Summer Fort Classic, illustrates how sport can be interwoven with purposeful advocacy. More than just a conduit for prize money, this initiative raised over an impressive $17,000 for the noble cause of combating sexual abuse in sports, with $7,500 reserved as prize money. The participation of companies such as Amelia Newcomb Dressage and Charles Owen as sponsors ensured that riders did not just leave with trophies, but with a sense of contributing towards a greater mission.
A Stark Reality
Why such an initiative, and why now? Studies have revealed that more than half of all athletes are subjected to some form of abuse, with ages 13 to 15 being particularly vulnerable. The #WeRideTogether initiative seeks to address these shocking statistics, creating safer sporting environments through education and community outreach.
Empowering Through Education
Founded in 2021, #WeRideTogether has rapidly evolved from mere awareness campaigns to robust educational programs. Partnering with the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), they offer comprehensive safeguarding training. These free, online resources are accessible globally and include interactive courses designed to educate coaches, athletes, and officials about recognizing abuse, bystander intervention, and the protocols for reporting misconduct. Survivor testimonies play a pivotal role in these sessions, adding a profoundly personal layer to the educational materials.
The Role of Community
The growing participation in the Open Classics highlights the burgeoning support from the equestrian community. The event serves not only as a model of sporting excellence but also underscores the power of community engagement in driving transformative cultural change. Through public service announcements and cooperation with sponsors, #WeRideTogether fosters an open dialogue about sexual abuse in sports, breaking down barriers of stigma and encouraging survivors to come forward safely.
Spurring Change Beyond Borders
It's not just about a singular event. The initiative reverberates across sports disciplines, setting an example of how athletic events can facilitate social advocacy. By aligning with #WeRideTogether, other sports can harness this momentum, striving for a universal culture of safety and mutual respect.
A Hopeful Future
The third annual #WeRideTogether Open Classics has shown how sports can transcend beyond competition to make substantial societal contributions. As more athletes, young and old, commit to initiatives like these, the prospects of creating healthier and safer environments grow ever brighter. It's a powerful reminder that every stride made on the field can equally resonate within our communities, promoting not just sporting achievements but lasting societal impact.
For additional information or to get involved with the #WeRideTogether initiative, inquiries can be directed to info@weridetogether.today.
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