The Asian Games, also known as Asiad, are held every four years in the even years between the Olympic Games. The Games are the largest sporting event worldwide – with 12,000 athletes competing, whereas the IOC has limited the number of athletes at the Olympic Games to a rather modest 10,000!
We are now just two weeks away from the 18th Asian Games, which will be held in the Indonesian cities of Jakarta and Palembang from August 18 to September 2. The continent’s top stars in Dressage, Eventing and Jumping will be on show at the purpose-built Jakarta International Equestrian Park, which boasts 156 stables and a main stand that can hold 1,000 spectators and 500 VIP viewers.
The Asian Games are organised by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) whose headquarters are based in Kuwait and are recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). 46 countries are eligible to take part in the 40 sports showcased, from athletics, equestrian and swimming to sepak takraw and wushu. Esports will also be introduced for the first time this year.
The first edition of the Asian Games was held in 1950, with equestrian sports first making an appearance at the 9th Asian Games in 1982 held in New Delhi, India. They were retained in Seoul in 1986, but after a brief absence in 1990 have been on the programme since returning in 1994.
This year the fight for Individual and Team medals begins with Dressage on Monday, August 20, while Eventing starts four days later. Jumping gets under way on Monday, August 27, with the final medals handed out three days later.
FEI Press Release