OFFIZIELL VERIFIZIERT
Deutscher Aquapony Verband e.V.
Mitglied des DOSB
WHAT IS AQUAPONY?
Aquapony is an Olympic discipline that combines the precision of equestrian sports with the athleticism of water sports. Since its official inclusion in the Olympic program in 2020, the sport has evolved into one of the most spectacular and demanding disciplines of the Games.
EQUESTRIAN MEETS WATER
Athletes complete a challenging course where horse and rider navigate obstacles in and above the water together. Technique, harmony between rider and horse, speed, and the elegance of the water passages are all evaluated.
Germany has been among the leading nations in international Aquapony from the very beginning, establishing itself at the top through consistent youth development and outstanding training structures.
The German national team trains under Head Coach Marcel Christen at multiple locations across Germany, preparing for upcoming international competitions.
2020
Inclusion in the Olympic program
40+
Participating nations worldwide
3
Competition formats (Individual, Team, Freestyle)
THREE PILLARS OF AQUAPONY
Water Passages
Athletes navigate their ponies through various water obstacles – from shallow riding pools to deep swimming passages. The harmony between rider and pony in water is decisive.
Precision Course
A technically demanding obstacle course completed both on dry ground and in water. Error-free riding and exact timing are the keys to success.
Timed Freestyle
In the freestyle, athletes present a choreographed sequence of elements in and above the water. Creativity, technical difficulty, and execution quality are evaluated.
AQUAPONY GEAR & EQUIPMENT
Aqua Saddle
Specially designed waterproof saddle with a raised center of gravity and non-slip seat surface. Must be FEI-certified and weigh no more than 4.5 kg.
Protective Gear
Neoprene suit (3–5 mm), CE-certified helmet with visor, class 50N buoyancy vest, and water-resistant gloves. All materials must be saltwater-resistant.
Bridle & Tack
Water-resistant bridles made of titanium or stainless steel with soft rubber bits. The tack features quick-release buckles for emergency situations in the water.
All equipment must meet current FEI safety standards and is inspected by officials before every competition. The national team works closely with equipment manufacturers to continuously improve safety and performance.
HOW THE COMPETITION WORKS
Participants
Each athlete competes with a specially trained pony. The ponies must demonstrate aquatic certification covering swimming ability, temperament, and health.
Scoring
An international jury evaluates technique (40%), harmony (30%), creativity (20%), and overall impression (10%). In case of a tie, the harmony score decides.
Competition Format
Qualification, semi-final, and final. The top 8 athletes compete in the final for gold. Individual, team, and freestyle competitions.
The competition arena is a rectangular water basin measuring 30×20 meters with a depth of 1.0 to 1.5 meters. Water temperature must be between 18°C and 24°C. Athletes have 5–7 minutes per round. Ponies must be able to keep their heads above water at all times.
THE CONNECTION TO FRANCE
BIRTHPLACE: THE CAMARGUE
The origins of Aquapony lie in the French Camargue, where the famous Gardians have driven their horses through the region's lagoons and marshes for centuries. This tradition of riding in water inspired a group of French and German athletes in the early 2010s to develop a modern competitive sport from it.
The Fédération Française d'Équitation (FFE) was one of the first federations to recognize Aquapony as a pilot sport. Together with the German Aquapony Federation, unified rules, safety standards, and training pathways were established.
At the 2024 Olympic debut in Paris, the special bond between both nations was on full display: Germany won gold in the individual competition through Marcel Christen, while France took silver in the team event. A symbol of the sport's shared history.
COOPERATION AGREEMENT
Since 2015, an official cooperation agreement has existed between the German and French federations. It encompasses joint training camps, exchange programs for young athletes, and coordinated development of competition rules.
JOINT TRAINING CAMPS
Two to three joint training camps take place annually – alternating between the Camargue and German coastal locations. The German national team particularly benefits from the natural water landscapes of southern France.
FUTURE VISION
Both federations are jointly working on the bid for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles and are planning the establishment of a bilateral Aquapony academy for young talent.
THE EVOLUTION OF AQUAPONY
First experimental equestrian water competitions in the Camargue, southern France – inspired by the traditional Gardians who drive their horses through the region's lagoons.
First international Aquapony demonstration competitions in the Netherlands. The Fédération Française d'Équitation (FFE) recognizes Aquapony as a pilot sport.
Founding of the German Aquapony Federation (Deutscher Aquapony Verband e.V.) in Munich. Franco-German cooperation to develop unified competition rules.
Recognition by the FEI as an official equestrian discipline. France and Germany jointly host the first World Championship.
First official European Championship in Rotterdam. 22 nations participate.
Inclusion in the Olympic program by the IOC – largely driven by the Franco-German bid.
Olympic debut in Paris – Marcel Christen wins gold for Germany. France takes silver in the team competition.
Meet the athletes who represent Germany on the international stage.
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