Horse riding popular among youngsters in China

The year of Horse is coming and Horse riding is becoming popular in China following publicity at the Beijing and London Olympics.

Careful preparations. Meng Haining and his partner are now ready to go. With their experience of horse riding, it is easy for them to complete the jump. Meng said he fell in love with riding when he was young and being with a horse is all he ever wanted. Through his strong desire and efforts, he opened his horse club in 2004.

"After years of development, we now have about eighty members and nine horses. Three new horses from Germany will join this year. We have also noticed in recent years that more and more young people have joined the sport." Meng said.

This little equestrian is training. The five-year-old is getting along quite well with his partner.

"My son started to learn to ride half a year ago. We think horse riding can train him both physically and mentally. It is a sport that needs cooperation between the rider and the horse. So we think it is good to form his personality." Meng's parent said.

It will take more than forty training lessons for him to run freely with his horse.

Taking care of the horses requires a strict schedule from early morning to late. From brushing to trimming hooves, and choosing fodder...all need great care.

"We can see a growing number of horse riding club setting up in China in recent years, but there's still a gap with foreign clubs. For example, we lack of professional equine veterinarians and hospitals. With the increasing number of horses, demand is growing fast." Meng said.

Meng said as his horse family is getting bigger. His great affection to them has responsibilities. But with his passion, he believes he can gallop a lot further in the future.