Modern Pentathlon Faces Transformation: Horse Riding Out, Obstacle Racing In Post-Paris Olympics

Bracknell’s modern pentathlon community is facing a mix of emotions as the sport undergoes significant changes post-Paris Olympics. World champion Elena Micheli expresses a ‘bittersweet’ sentiment as horse riding is phased out in favor of obstacle racing. This decision comes after the equestrian scandal at the Tokyo Games, prompting the International Olympic Committee to initially drop the sport from the 2028 Los Angeles Games lineup. Although reinstated, the sport will see a transformation after next year’s Olympics, with obstacle racing introduced for economic, entertainment, and timing benefits. Micheli, heartbroken over the loss of equestrianism, urges athletes to embrace the new challenge. Britain’s Olympic champion Joe Choong has previously hinted at leaving the sport due to these changes, causing concern over a potential exodus. However, UIPM’s athletes committee chairman Yasser Hefny believes obstacle racing could attract more participants and emphasizes the adaptability of pentathletes. As the Bracknell community looks towards the future, the sport’s evolution is inevitable, with hopes that it will continue to thrive in its new format.