In polo position

Wu Gangfang, head of the China Horse Culture, Sports and Tourism Institute, which is affiliated to the art development center of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, says a new national equestrian education, tourism research and mutual learning cooperation alliance will also "help link the riding clubs of major cities with the magnificent space of equestrian study tours and horseback riding tourism in the ethnic areas of the north and northwestern regions, and open up training, technical safety standards and education on both sides".

"This will help equestrian enthusiasts around the world enjoy the best services from our riding clubs and tourism providers and ensure that they meet international standards and certifications," he says.

"We aim to get more people on horseback and love equestrian sports, for young and old to enjoy the cool of summer and warmth of winter with the horses, and to experience the joy of riding, professionally and recreationally, all year round."