Rebuilding Trust in Dressage: A New Path Forward
Dressage, an equestrian art that marries grace and precision, has seen its share of controversies. As the whispers about fairness and ethics grew louder, the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) decided it was high time to address the elephant (or rather, the horse) in the room. On October 1st, stakeholders from across the dressage community gathered at FEI's headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland. Yes, even professionals need a bit of horseplay to solve serious issues.Core Objectives: A Return to Basics
The pivotal meeting centered around reaffirming the core objectives of dressage. Participants emphasized the need for horses to be calm, supple, flexible, confident, and responsive—a quintet of qualities likely to win even the toughest judges' hearts. These timeless principles, often overshadowed by modern-day competitive pressures, found their way back into the spotlight.What remained clear was the crucial role of a harmonious connection between horse and rider, a bond akin to Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, only with a bit more horsepower involved. The FEI placed a strong emphasis on integrating these objectives into its rulebook for consistent application across both training and competition. The key takeaway? Dressage is not just about doing the salsa on horseback; the goal is a seamless, tension-free performance where horse and rider glide like butter on warm toast.
Accountability and Transparency: No More Horsing Around
Another major focus was on enhancing accountability and transparency within the sport. One proposal trotted out was the mandatory registration for trainers and the introduction of certification schemes. Think of this as combining law school and a reality TV talent show; everyone gets trained, registered, and rated!By defining ethical training methods and improving communication about best practices, the FEI aims to reassure the public that horse welfare is at the heart of dressage. It's not just about putting on a good show—it's about safeguarding these noble beasts and ensuring their well-being is front and center.
Adopting a Holistic Approach to Horse Welfare
One significant takeaway from the meeting was the adoption of a holistic approach to dressage, incorporating behavioral science and the five domains of animal welfare. Now, you might wonder, what are these five domains? Fear not; it's less complex than horse chemistry. Essentially, it's about understanding the physical and mental well-being of horses, allowing them to strut or trot naturally, without bending over backward (ok, maybe a little stretching).Emphasis was placed on the role of breeding, judging, training, and riding, highlighting the interconnectedness of these elements. With a bit of scientific insight and a dollop of horse sense, the FEI hopes to ensure that dressage respects horses as much as it lifts the spirit of competition.
Toward Collective Responsibility
According to FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez and Dressage Director Ronan Murphy, these changes aren't about one person holding the reins but require collective action. Restoring public trust in dressage is not a solo act—it's a flash mob of commitment from the entire community. This reassessment of the sport's principles was motivated by concerns from the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, which underscored the need for a unified vision for the sport's future.Looking Ahead: Next Steps and Broader Initiatives
The resolutions from this meeting will be discussed at FEI's General Assembly in November 2024 and the FEI Sports Forum in April 2025, where they will also explore further engagement with European national federations. If you've ever thought of dressage as being as straightforward as "sit on the horse, don't fall off," think again!Part of this broader initiative includes the FEI's "Be a Guardian" initiative, underlining the concept of human guardianship in equine care. It ensures that the natural needs of horses are met and that initiatives are borne from ethical, evidence-based policies. After all, caring for a horse should make one feel more like a benevolent guardian rather than a taskmaster from an old adventure novel.
Conclusion: The Future of Dressage
In conclusion, the FEI is moving forward with earnest intent to restore public trust in dressage. By embracing core objectives, increasing accountability, and ensuring a holistic approach to welfare, the dressage community is ready to harmonize with its roots while riding confidently into the future. The real challenge? Ensuring that dressage continues to exhibit sporting excellence without letting the sound of public skepticism get louder than the trumpeting call of the judges.Learn more about the FEI and their initiatives at their official website.
