The proceedings of the FEI World Endurance Forum held in Paris continued April 2, with the chairmen of the three working groups – Fred Barrelet (SUI) Veterinary, Maurizio Stecco (ITA) Judges, and John Robertson (GBR) Technical Delegates – presenting summaries.
The summaries identified several areas where change and improvement were necessary, including: qualification system; equitation training; public perception of the sport in terms of the dress and terminology used; horse log book; suspension of riders and horses; protocol for abandonment; ride finish system; hold/presentation times; course design; star system for ride distances; availability of qualified officials; monitoring of the officials’ performances; re-evaluation of the low-level distances and the potential dangers linked to them.
Other topics identified were rest periods; number of vet gates and their link to the going; weights; progressive closing of vet gates; establishment of regional championships and CEIOs; development of a comprehensive database; adequate technology; examination of a handicap system; progression through star-rating of rides on national and international level; education of officials; re-examination of the best condition award rules.
Almost half of these areas where reassessment was required were identified in all three presentations.
On the basis of these recommendations and with the further contribution of the National Federations, a task force will be created, the goal of which will be to assist the FEI in producing new Rules of Endurance better suited to the changing circumstances and the massive growth the sport is experiencing.
