Malta is a small island nation in the Mediterranean, located between Sicily and North Africa. It’s known for its rich history, stunning coastline, and unique culture.
Equestrian sports in Malta have been active since the 1970s when equestrian events were held under the auspices of La Valette Riding Club.
The Malta Equestrian Federation (MEF) was then set up in 1999 to govern the growing sport and affiliated with the international governing body of the sport, the Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) which allowed the local community to join the international leagues in the World Dressage Championships.
After a hiatus the Federation launched a National Strategy in 2021 which was focused on establishing a solid foundation for the development of the sport. This strategy was voted on by members and outlined the direction of the past 5 years.
The MEF also works closely with Equestri Malta to set up the EquestriMalta National Championships and took part in the World Clubs tournament in France. This collaboration has allowed the MEF to secure funding to invest in education and events.
The MEF has also worked tirelessly to promote animal welfare standards both through education and during events. The Federation cooperated with EquestriMalta to include animal health and welfare within the syllabus of its first instructor training programme which emphasised the need for good health and welfare standards. During events a veterinarian was made available to ensure all animals who compete in equestrian and fit and healthy.
For education the Federation worked closely with the FEI, EEF and EquestriMalta to carry out a number of training programmes aimed at increasing the quality of shows in Malta. These events focused on training show stewards, judges and course designers and have resulted in a pool of competent people who have helped increase the standard of sporting events in Malta.
A coach’s register was also set up, also in collaboration with EquestriMalta, which had prospective coaches carry a first aid course, an introductory course and the FEI Level 1 coaching course. This system will be continually updated to reflect the focus on youth and development which will be one of the next steps following the 5-year foundation building.
Over the past 5 years the sport has seen exponential growth with its membership and participants more than doubling with many of these being young riders. The only factors which are slowing growth are the need for more facilities.
Today The MEF hosts a number of competitions throughout the year at various venues all over the island, with the season culminating in the Championship Cup at the end of May or early June. The MEF is committed to the codes of conduct laid down by FEI with regards to the welfare of the horse, the environment and fair play.
Moving forward the MEF will work closely with its partners to address the main challenge facing advancement of the sport. Good quality footing and a national arena will be essential for Malta to take its athletes to the next level. This, coupled on a focus on youth and development will allow Maltese athletes to compete more regularly at an international level.
