Photos by Kellee Campbell

One of the fastest-growing equestrian disciplines in the world is preparing to make history in 2026.

Working Equitation Captures the Equestrian World’s Attention

This September, the World Association for Working Equitation (WAWE) will host its 7th World Championships in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain—the birthplace of the magnificent Pure Spanish Horse (PRE). Riders from around the globe will compete in a discipline that combines classical dressage, obstacle negotiation, speed, and the practical skills once required of working horsemen. While not the first world championship for the sport, it marks the first time that countries like Canada and the United States have sent official, qualified teams.

Among those selected to represent the United States is a familiar name to the dressage community. Veteran FEI rider and trainer Pati Pierucci has been named First Alternate to the inaugural U.S. Team, an impressive accomplishment for someone who only recently immersed herself in the sport.

From FEI Dressage to Working Equitation

For those who know Pati, however, the achievement comes as no surprise. Throughout her career, she has never stopped learning.

For more than three decades, Pati has built a reputation as one of America’s respected FEI dressage professionals. A USDF Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medalist with Distinction, she has earned Grand Prix victories, was long-listed for the 2000 U.S. Olympic Selection Trials, and has trained with some of the sport’s most influential names, including Robert Dover, Kathy Connelly, Martin Schaudt, Betsy Steiner, and Christine Traurig.

Yet trophies and titles tell only part of her story.

Perhaps her greatest contribution has been her lifelong dedication to the Pure Spanish Horse (PRE).

A Lifetime Dedicated to the Pure Spanish Horse (PRE)

Pati Pierucci and El Esprit

Working Equitation traces its roots to the traditional working horse cultures of Portugal, Spain, France, and Italy, making the Iberian breeds synonymous with the sport. The Lusitano, with its deep heritage in Portuguese cattle work, and the PRE (Pura Raza Española) have become two of Working Equitation’s most recognizable ambassadors. Their natural balance, agility, courage, and trainability continue to make them favorites at every level of competition. For Pierucci, whose career has long celebrated the PRE and Lusitano breeds, Working Equitation has provided an exciting opportunity to showcase the exceptional qualities shared by both breeds.

Working Equitation: A Natural Progression

Rooted in the traditions of the Iberian Peninsula, Working Equitation celebrates many of the same qualities that have always attracted Pati: balance, collection, responsiveness, courage, and partnership. While the sport introduces new challenges through obstacle phases and speed courses, its foundation remains classical training.

Three years ago, friend and accomplished Working Equitation rider Doreen Atkinson introduced Pati to the discipline by offering her the opportunity to compete aboard the experienced horse Obadiah. What began as an introduction quickly became a passion. Pati dedicated herself to mastering the technical demands of the sport, qualifying internationally and ultimately earning selection as First Alternate for the United States’ historic inaugural WAWE World Championship team.

The journey reflects something those who have known Pati for years already understand.

She has never viewed horsemanship as a destination.

Building a Legacy Beyond Competition

Born in Kentucky and later establishing successful training operations in Virginia before making Texas her home, Pati has spent a lifetime helping both horses and riders reach their potential. Alongside her husband, Peter, she built a family business centered on education, training, and the development of horse-and-rider partnerships. At the same time, she successfully balanced the demands of international competition with raising two daughters, both of whom have grown into accomplished horsewomen and mothers themselves.

Students often describe Pati as a trainer who emphasizes patience, correctness, and positive communication. Whether producing a young horse, preparing an FEI competitor, or introducing someone to their first dressage test, her philosophy has remained remarkably consistent: build confidence first, and excellence will follow.

Now, decades after first stepping into the dressage arena, Pati finds herself preparing for another milestone.

The Journey Continues

Working Equitation may be the newest chapter in her career, but it is also a reflection of everything that has come before it—a lifetime devoted to classical riding, the Spanish horse, and an unwavering commitment to continual growth.

As the equestrian world turns its attention to the inaugural WAWE World Championships, Pati Pierucci stands as a reminder that great horsemen and horsewomen never stop evolving. They continue to learn, adapt, and pursue excellence, guided by the same passion that first brought them into the barn many years ago.

For Pati, that passion has always had a familiar silhouette: the proud outline of the Spanish horse.