The Uncertain Future for Greenfield Equestrian Events
While the landscape of equestrian events continually changes, one aspect remains alarmingly certain: green-field events, such as the beloved Festival of British Eventing at Gatcombe, are battling for survival amidst challenging economic conditions. Sponsorship and ticket prices, not entry fees, have traditionally financed these events. However, with rising insurance costs and capacity limitations, many venues struggle to remain viable.
The Crux of the Issue
The problem doesn't seem to be an isolated one. Gatcombe may perhaps be the tip of the iceberg. Many other green-field sites could potentially face identical struggles in the coming years, radically reshaping the equestrian calendar. Post COVID-19, a combination of rising inflation and increasing living costs adds to the dilemma. Thus, equestrian eventing is evidently in for a significant shake-up. Uncertain times lie ahead.
FEI's Discrepancies with Officials
In another turn of events that has raised eyebrows in the equestrian community, the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) unexpectedly excommunicated the International Eventing Officials Club (IEOC). Seemingly out of the blue, the FEI decided to revoke the primary communication platform of these officials on grounds of dissatisfaction with the officials' feedback.
This move has unsurprisingly provoked discontent. An overwhelming majority of eventing officials now feel unsupported by the FEI. Yet, the FEI strongly disputes this claim. The situation has drawn heavy criticism due to the implications on hierarchal communication and transparency within the sport.
An Eye on the Olympics
Unrest simmers in other aspects of equestrian sport as well. The FEI plans to debut a new Olympic format for the Los Angeles 2028 games. Despite facing opposition, it appears resolute in making showjumping a prerequisite for cross-country for team medals.
While initial reactions have varied, this proposed change could bring unintended benefits. For instance, the decision to scrap the 15-penalties-for-a-shoulder-outside-the-flag rule, and incorporate a penalty for knocking down a flag, could expedite verdicts and avoid extensive video reviews.
Course-designers could widen the minimum jumpable width between flags, allowing riders more leeway to align their horses straight to skinnies. These alterations could favorably impact risk management and spectator comprehensibility while appeasing Olympic broadcasters.
A Silver Lining?
Both riders and officials would require time to adjust to these substantial changes. However, these modifications might steer the sport in a more positive direction for once. If these modifications manage to render the sport safer, amplify clarity for spectators, and uphold broadcaster satisfaction, the future of equestrian sport remains hopeful.
Change often paves the way for evolution and growth, but it's essential for it to uplift the sport, not to cater merely to political agendas. The future of green-field equestrian events may currently hang in the balance, but hope endures that this difficult phase will soon pass.
Source:Horse & Hound
