Modern Pentathlon: The horses ride into history

VERSAILLES, France: Modern Pentathletes chase gold on horseback, on foot, in water, brandishing electric epees and firing laser pistols, but Sunday (Aug 11) marked the end of an era for one of the more obscure and disparate offerings on the Olympic programme.

The women's final featured show jumping for the last time before horses are replaced by obstacle courses for the 2028 Los Angeles Games.

The new ingredient in a quirky mix has drawn a varied response, some lapping it up and others finding it not at all to their taste.

Horses have been a part of the oft-reinvented five-discipline event since modern Olympics founder Pierre de Coubertin introduced it in 1912, but they are now following cavalry charges and cuirassiers into history.

The decision was made after the 2021 Tokyo Games when a German coach caused an outcry by striking a horse that refused to jump.

The rider in that incident, Annika Schleu, was back on Sunday and enjoyed a clear round as a late replacement under her married name of Zillekens.

While "Ninja Warrior"-style obstacle courses may broaden the appeal of a sport used to fighting for its place at the Games, pentathletes must decide whether to stay or go.

"It's sad. I come from a horse background," said American Jessica Savner, who had already decided to retire.

"I just hope it means there's a beginning of a bunch of other people's careers. I hope they take whatever they can out of it."

Britain's Charlie Brown, who grew up on a farm, said after Friday's men's semi-final that the feeling was less one of sadness and more of having been part of something special.

"This definitely won't be the last time I'll be riding horses," he said, while looking forward to the challenge of obstacles.

Teammate and 2021 Olympic