How to light up equestrian venue

How to light up equestrian venue

Bright, even lighting is critical for equestrian venues as it helps to improve horse and rider safety as well as enhance the spectator experience. Today, LED lights have become everyone's first choice when selecting their lighting needs due to their greater energy efficiency and durability, and are beginning to gradually replace traditional lighting such as HPS, MH, and halogen.

1.Why use LEDs for equestrian lighting?

Here are the reasons why many people choose LED lighting due to its advantages;

• LED lights are more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent and fluorescent lights. which is very important for equestrian venues that are used for a long time, because today's energy costs are tight and the cost of energy is increasing, which has brought a lot of economic pressure.

• LED lights can withstand harsh weather conditions better than traditional lights. This attribute is critical because most racecourses are open and susceptible to extreme weather conditions such as wind and rain, which are known to cause considerable damage to lighting systems.

• LED lighting fixtures do not produce ultraviolet and infrared radiation and are specifically designed to minimize light pollution. Due to the use of traditional lamps containing ultraviolet and infrared radiation, long-term exposure to humans and wildlife will have an impact. This is vital to the health and comfort of horse and rider.

•LED lights can withstand harsh weather conditions better than traditional lights. This attribute is crucial because equestrian venues are primarily outdoor venues and are susceptible to extreme weather conditions, such as wind and rain, which are known to cause considerable damage to lighting systems.

• LED lights are more durable and last longer than traditional lights and have lower maintenance costs than traditional lighting options. It is important to note that replacing traditional lighting with LED lights can be very expensive at first. But the money spent will be recouped in just a few years.

• LED lights provide bright, even and glare-free light so horses and riders can race safely and comfortably.The last thing you want in any sport, let alone equestrian, is glare. Glare often disrupts horse and rider vision, creating unsafe spaces.

• LED lights have a more intelligent and diverse light distribution system. It will improve the viewing experience and overall lighting effect, and optimizes the overall operation during the game.

2.What is equestrian venue lighting

Equestrian lighting is a form of lighting used in specific sports, designed to meet the lighting and safety requirements for horses, riders, and spectators in equestrian sports. Allowing horses and riders to compete better under even light and allowing spectators to watch the competition more clearly and brightly.

The angle of light needs to be divided into two categories:

• Wide beam lighting:

This fixture configuration provides general illumination over a wide area, ensuring that the entire venue is well-lit.

• Narrow spot lighting:

These lights provide focused lighting on specific sections of the track. They are great for where critical areas need to be seen clearly.For example, distinguishing between details of dressage and details of jumping

Equestrian sports play an important role in the sports world and are also a form of exercise that everyone likes.

It not only exercises the coordination of the whole body, but also gets close to the horse and reduces stress when riding. It not only cultivates teamwork and communication skills, but also cultivates patience, discipline and responsibility in caring for the horse.

Equestrian is not just a sport, it is a way of life that has a positive impact on physical and mental health.

Next, let’s take a closer look at the national rules of equestrian sports and what to pay attention to when lighting.

1.Standards for Equestrian Venues

According to the 27th edition of the FEI Rules of Show Jumping.

The minimum area of an indoor competition course must be 1,200 square meters with a minimum width of 25 meters on the short side;

The minimum size of an outdoor course must be 4000 square meters with a minimum width of 50 meters on the short side.

2.Outdoor Equestrian Venue Luminance (Lux) Lighting Requirements(Key Note: Data is for reference only and depends on the unique environment)

                       Eave(LUX)       U0(Emin/Eave)

Class 1 - Professional        500 Lux           >0.7

Class 2 - Club              200 Lux            >0.5

Class 3 - Recreational       100 Lux            >0.5

Indoor Equestrian Venue Luminance (Lux) Lighting Requirements

                        Eave(LUX)        U0(Emin/Eave)

Class 1 - Professional       500 Lux            >0.7

Class 2 - Club              300 Lux            >0.6

Class 3 - Recreational       200 Lux            >0.5

3.Lighting uniformity

In equestrian venue lighting, horizontal uniformity and vertical uniformity are one of the key factors.

Horizontal illumination uniformity: This means that the illumination at different locations on the site should be consistent to avoid areas that are too bright or too dark. Specific requirements are as follows:

The ratio of the minimum value to the maximum value of horizontal illumination on the playing field shall not be less than 0.5.

The ratio of the minimum horizontal illumination value to the average value of the competition venue should not be less than 0.7.

Vertical illumination uniformity: This means that in the main camera direction, the illumination at different heights should be consistent to ensure clear visibility of athletes and objects. Specific requirements are as follows:

The ratio of the minimum and maximum vertical illumination values in the direction of the main camera on the playing field shall not be less than 0.4.

4.CRI (Color Rendering Index)

Color rendering index (CRI): CRI is a measure of the ability of a light source to restore the color of an object. Its value range is from 0 to 100. The higher it is, the more accurately the light source can restore the color of the object. For equestrian venues, the CRI requirements are as follows:

High CRI lighting allows horses, riders and spectators to see their surroundings more clearly, reducing misjudgments and accidents.

Generally speaking, lighting effects with a CRI above 80 are better, but the specific requirements may vary depending on the type and size of the racecourse.

5.What type of LED lighting is most suitable to install in a riding stable?

-LED stadium lights

Professional LED stadium lights are specially used in various types of sports venues.

Nowadays, due to the special requirements for lighting in sports categories, flexible designs have been made according to different sports to meet the needs of various competitions.  Professional stadium lighting can be used not only for entertainment activities, but also for international competitions.

If you are looking for a lighting upgrade or a new total solution for your equestrian arena. It is vital to find a professional lighting consultant or specialized LED sports lighting supplier.

With 17 years of experience in LED sports lighting, we at Romano's are fully equipped to fulfill all your lighting needs and provide a one-stop solution.

Welcome contact us at Romanso jerry@romanso.com for any of your needs and look forward to working with you to complete your project with ease and quality.