Wellington

Go behind the scenes and inside the rings at the world’s largest and longest competitive equestrian horse show in Wellington, Florida. Spanning twelve weeks during the winter season, this coastal town plays host to award-winning riders from all fifty states, along with Olympic and national teams from countries near and far, who convene here to chart their horses over jumps, guide them in the distinguished ballet of dressage, or pit them against other champion polo teams.

At this competition, known as the Winter Equestrian Festival, no matter where a rider comes from or how they land in the ring, one thing is certain: It takes a steadfast determination to beat the best in the world.

“We are drawn to horses for their unconditional love, how they sense what people are feeling, and their power and majesty.” — Margie Engle

“When you are on a great horse, you have the best seat you will ever have.” — Winston S. Churchill

Text by Holly Peterson. Photography by Elena Lusenti.

All of the author’s proceeds from this book are donated to the Brooke Innovation Fund, which invests in new ideas to improve the welfare of working animals and the lives of those communities that depend on them.

Assouline, February 2019