A Review of the Appropriateness of Existing Micro- and Meso-level Models of Athlete Development within Equestrian Sport

Donna De Haan

doi:10.13189/saj.2017.050101

Abstract

The aim of this paper was to use a case study approach to review the appropriateness of existing micro- and meso-level models of athlete development within the sport specific context of equestrianism. At a micro-level the Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) model was chosen. At a meso-level, the Sport Policy factors that Lead to International Sporting Success (SPLISS) model was chosen with specific focus on Pillar 4 (talent identification and development systems). To assess the relevance or fit of these models, policy documentation from the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) which includes information on athlete profiling and performance pathways were reviewed. Results from this study indicate that talent identification and development of the rider at the point of specialization (micro-level) and performance/competition pathways (meso-level) have a degree of synergy. However, due to the potential longevity of riders' careers, and the required combination of an elite rider with an elite horse, it is difficult to map this at a senior level. The findings illustrate that due to these sport-specific variables, equestrianism does not 'fit' within these models and requires a unique 'dual athlete – horse and rider' talent identification and development system.

Highlights

Within the field of elite sport there is a consensus that factors that determine elite success can be examined at three levels; macro, meso, and micro-level, e.g. [1,2,3,4,5]
The purpose of this paper is to address the call for holistic, sport specific analysis by using a case study approach to review the appropriateness of existing micro- and meso-level models of athlete development within the sport of equestrianism, the Olympic disciplines of
This preliminary investigation highlights some of the sport specific nuances of equestrianism and how these apply to talent identification and development models at the microand macro-level

Summary

Introduction

Within the field of elite sport there is a consensus that factors that determine elite success can be examined at three levels; macro-, meso-, and micro-level, e.g. [1,2,3,4,5]. Sport policy makers are unable to influence these factors and the focus of studies over the past 20 years with regard to the examination of elite sport have tended to concentrate on the meso-level e.g., [1,2,3] [7]. These meso-level studies have attempted to identify the critical factors required for successful elite athlete development. For example the age of riders selected to represent Great Britain at the Rio Olympic Games, ranged from 20-60 years Within this sport-specific context, there appear to be several unique variables which may influence athlete development and success. The place of equestrian sport within these models is evaluated and discussed, before relevant conclusions and recommendations are drawn

LTAD Model

SPLISS Model

Evaluating the Place of Equestrian Sport in the LTAD and SPLISS Model

Findings

Conclusions and Recommendations