Coronavirus show rules adherence warning
Concerns have been raised over virus-related safety measures
KEEPING safe at shows is a joint responsibility riders are reminded, following concerns about protocols at international events.
Canadian rider Eric Lamaze raised issues on 24 July about a show he had been at in Lier, Belgium. He was disappointed by the low number of riders wearing masks while course-walking, adding it is the responsibility of riders and “especially” organisers and FEI to take precautions.
“Riders have the most contact with other people and therefore should absolutely be wearing masks,” he said. “I understand everybody has the freedom to make that choice but why not take all the best precautions to stay safe and healthy so the sport we love will be able to go on without any incidents or issues?
“If we are not careful, we will soon be back home riding in our own rings with no shows.”
The Belgian federation told H&H masks must now be worn at shows, except for riders on horses, since a government announcement on 25 July.
Tanya Kyle, mother of 13-yearold British showjumper Tabitha, who was competing in France on 23 to 26 July, told H&H everyone at the show was wearing masks inside, except riders while competing, in line with the country’s government guidelines, and around 50% of supporters were wearing masks outside, but she said other protocols were not as strict as UK shows.
“Anybody was allowed in the collecting ring, while in England there have been restrictions on who’s allowed,” she said.
“I was told before we went to the show there had been no cases of Covid-19 in the area. There were a huge number of people at the show, with five rings running national and international classes, so it will be interesting to hear if there is any spike from that show.”
An FEI spokesman told H&H the organisation’s first priority is protecting the health and welfare of the equestrian community, and that we must all take responsibility and do all necessary to minimise any “further negative effects” on our sport.
The FEI launched a policy on 1 July for competition safety during the pandemic, which provides organisers with a toolkit.
“The policy includes an obligation for organisers to carry out a full risk assessment. Any event that fails to return the completed risk assessment and mitigation measures plan will be removed from the FEI calendar,” said a spokesman. “Each organiser has responsibility to adhere to the measures imposed by domestic government and public health authorities in their country.
“We can and we must ensure that we all work together and that we are mindful of our collective responsibility in this global pandemic. Maintaining a safe and healthy environment at events is key to ensuring competition continues, and while the FEI is leading on that, it is a joint responsibility across federations, organisers and participants.”
A spokesman for British Equestrian told H&H riders must keep up to date with government regulations abroad.
“We’re advising riders to keep the safety and welfare of themselves, grooms, owners and horses paramount, exercise extreme caution, comply with any protocols or guidance, and be prepared for sudden change.”