Chinese culture featured in Olympic equestrian competition

(BEIJING, June 13) -- Obstacles in the cross-country event of the Olympic equestrian competition will showcase Chinese cultural icons such as a dragon, a panda and chopsticks, says British course designer Mike Ethering-Smith.

The wooden obstacles are the final step in preparations for the Olympic Equestrian competition, which will take place in Hong Kong. Not only are they used within the competition itself, they also provide an opportunity to display the culture of the host nation.

Mike Ethering-Smith said he is proud of the cultural aspects of his design but won't elaborate on the rest of the course. Track information is confidential, he says, and even equestrian riders are not allowed see it until the event begins.