Zara Phillips, Equestrian Princess

If you compete seriously in *any* sport there is going to be a lot of money needed. And if the most important piece of equipment requires a stable, food, vet and training....well, expect the costs to triple. Wealthy riders is as surprising as tall basketball players. ;)

End of the day, if the rider is no good it doesn't matter how expensive the horse or how nice the tack; they wont get far.

not only that, but all the things you need to own a horse and ride are ridiculously expensive!
I didn't get to start riding until I was 13, and I didn't get my first horse until I was 17, and she was unbroke. It drives me nuts to see these little 8 and 10 years old out there showing with 70,000$ warmbloods that you know they had nothing to do with the training of. It's ridiculous. I barely have the money even to do local shows right now, I have to save months in advance for one!