abc.net.au/am/ - Full transcript
AM - Saturday, 10 November , 2007 08:18:00
Reporter: David Margan
ELIZABETH JACKSON: As the thundering of the Melbourne Cup hooves fades into the distance Australia's racing industry must again confront the enormous cost of the horse flu outbreak.
No one really knows how many horses there are in Australia, and no one is quite sure just how much equine influenza will ultimately cost, but it's already been estimated to be in the hundreds of millions of dollars, and the cost isn't just financial.
David Margan filed this report.
RACE CALLER: Ms Bustle flying home, it'll be too late, and Accelerator�
JOHN MESSARA: Perhaps the worst disaster that's befallen us in the last 20 or 30 years because of the disruption it's caused.
DAVID MARGAN: John Messara, principal of Arrowfield Stud and one of the kings of the track.
JOHN MESSARA: It's estimated by the Australian Bureau of Statistics that it's costing racing $3-million a day, and it's costing the breeding industry $1.3-million a day.
DAVID MARGAN: But there is another half of the horse industry that's been almost completely ignored, whose losses have been just as great but whose heartbreak has been far more widespread. We're talking about the performance and pleasure horse sector that includes a plethora of activities from pony clubs to Olympic equestrian.
PETER TOFT: It's hard to put a definitive amount on it, but you're talking about millions and millions of dollars, if not billions of dollars. I mean, it's been an amazing catastrophe.
DAVID MARGAN: Peter Toft breeds endurance horses, and as chairman of the fledgling Queensland Pleasure and Performance Horse Association, puts his market sector's losses at $5-million a day.
PETER TOFT: Every day it goes on the problems become deeper and the chances of recovery of our industry become much more protracted.
DAVID MARGAN: John Wicks is one of Australia's foremost reining horse trainers and riders, but his growing business has ground to a halt.
JOHN WICKS: You know, the bills still keep coming in.
DAVID MARGAN: So, what are you doing to make ends meet?
JOHN WICKS: Well, I'm doing a little bit of gardening, a bit of fencing. Anything I possibly can at the moment.
DAVID MARGAN: Another cost has been confidence.
John Messara.
JOHN MESSARA: The Thoroughbred Owners Association did a survey of their membership to see who would buy horses in 2008, post EI, and they got 100 per cent negative response. That's a frightening thing.
DAVID MARGAN: The spread of the virus and government's response to it has also fractured relations within the great horse family. The thoroughbred sector, using its great well-organised influence, had restrictions on horse movements modified so their breeding season could get underway, a concession not extended to anyone else. And it was also they who got the first vaccinations.
Peter Toft:
PETER TOFT: Eighty five per cent of our industry is made up of microbusinesses. They're people that employ less than five people and those sort of people are very good for the Australian economy. Collectively, they made up billions and billions of dollars.
DAVID MARGAN: And they've been ignored thus far?
PETER TOFT: Totally ignored.
DAVID MARGAN: Toft further claims that over half the horse industry has got almost nothing from the nearly $100-million so far given in financial assistance by the Commonwealth, Queensland and New South Wales Governments.
ELIZABETH JACKSON: David Margan with that report. And you can watch David's full story on ABC TV's Landline program tomorrow at midday.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Aust hopes to be free of EI virus by mid-2008 - Nov 14 2007
North Queensland Register - Full Story
By Julie Paul
Wednesday, 14 November 2007
News from the eastern states indicates the equine influenza outbreak is still being contained and, if biosecurity measures continue to be observed, Australia is likely to be free of the virus by mid-2008.
Primary Industries & Resources South Australia's chief veterinary officer, Rob Rahaley, made the announcement at a meeting of professional and recreational riders, hosted by Horse SA at Morphettville.
Attendees included representatives from
- showjumping,
- eventing,
- dressage,
- showing,
- pony club,
- endurance riding organisations,
- farriers and
- administrators from the Equestrian Federation of Australia.
Dr Rahaley said the biosecurity measures presently required for gatherings of more than nine horses will still be enforced.
He outlined the type of precautions necessary when horse events gradually start again.
There are three main areas of consideration:
• Venue selection
• Biosecurity plans
• Contingency plans
Under the heading of venue selection, he stressed the need to:
• Keep members of the public away from the horses or exclude them from the venue altogether.
• Have adequate - and separate - toilet and washing areas for competitors and spectators.
• Provide an area for horses to be confined if they show any signs of infection.
• Choose a location able to accommodate a large number of horses in case of infection and subsequent quarantine.
He said biosecurity measures recommended are comprehensive. They include:
• Ensure your organisation has the power to insist the following precautions can be taken
• Adequate security (gatekeepers, volunteers ensuring spectators were nowhere near horses etc)
• No dogs at the venue. Dogs can carry the virus on their skins just as people can on their hands, hair and clothing
• Horses must not share water or feed containers
• Minimise contact between competitors
• Enforce compliance with the rules. People will be asked to sign statements declaring they have not been in contact with any infected horse, or with any person who may have had contact with an infected horse.
• Monitor horses for the next five days, including regular inspection and taking of temperatures
• Keep comprehensive records of all horses at the venue,
- where they have come from,
- who has been in contact with them,
- do they have clean equipment,
- are they showing normal temperature readings, etc.
• The records are to be kept as long as there is any chance of a horse showing signs of infection after the event.
Dr Rahaley said a contingency plan must also be considered.
In a worst-case-scenario, the organisation must be able to ensure there was adequate provision for horses if the whole site is quarantined,
- stabling of yards,
- getting in supplies of feed,
- providing disinfectant, accommodation and washing facilties for riders.
The quarantine zone should be anything up to a 10-kilometre radius around the lockdown area, and quarantine could easily last for six weeks.
Dr Rahaley stressed the need for careful planning to minimise any risk of infection and to comply with the law.
He said PIRSA would make random checks on any horse event at any time.
"When it is proved that the virus no longer exists in Australia, event organisers can go back to their previous arrangements," Dr Rahaley said.
But he thinks many organisations will choose to adopt the above precautions permanently, realising that they are largely a matter of common sense.
When asked why recreational riders are seen as the 'poor relations' of the horse world and why the virus vaccine is only available to the racing industry, Dr Rahaley said he believed that the virus could still be eliminated without country-wide vaccinations.
"The vaccination program is very expensive," he said. "And owners would be committted to a program costing $90 million - Australia-wide - each year.
"The recreational riders are the ones who can least afford more costs added to the already heavy expense of keeping a horse."
SOURCE: Breaking news from the Stock Journal, SA, November 15.
By Julie Paul
Wednesday, 14 November 2007
News from the eastern states indicates the equine influenza outbreak is still being contained and, if biosecurity measures continue to be observed, Australia is likely to be free of the virus by mid-2008.
Primary Industries & Resources South Australia's chief veterinary officer, Rob Rahaley, made the announcement at a meeting of professional and recreational riders, hosted by Horse SA at Morphettville.
Attendees included representatives from
- showjumping,
- eventing,
- dressage,
- showing,
- pony club,
- endurance riding organisations,
- farriers and
- administrators from the Equestrian Federation of Australia.
Dr Rahaley said the biosecurity measures presently required for gatherings of more than nine horses will still be enforced.
He outlined the type of precautions necessary when horse events gradually start again.
There are three main areas of consideration:
• Venue selection
• Biosecurity plans
• Contingency plans
Under the heading of venue selection, he stressed the need to:
• Keep members of the public away from the horses or exclude them from the venue altogether.
• Have adequate - and separate - toilet and washing areas for competitors and spectators.
• Provide an area for horses to be confined if they show any signs of infection.
• Choose a location able to accommodate a large number of horses in case of infection and subsequent quarantine.
He said biosecurity measures recommended are comprehensive. They include:
• Ensure your organisation has the power to insist the following precautions can be taken
• Adequate security (gatekeepers, volunteers ensuring spectators were nowhere near horses etc)
• No dogs at the venue. Dogs can carry the virus on their skins just as people can on their hands, hair and clothing
• Horses must not share water or feed containers
• Minimise contact between competitors
• Enforce compliance with the rules. People will be asked to sign statements declaring they have not been in contact with any infected horse, or with any person who may have had contact with an infected horse.
• Monitor horses for the next five days, including regular inspection and taking of temperatures
• Keep comprehensive records of all horses at the venue,
- where they have come from,
- who has been in contact with them,
- do they have clean equipment,
- are they showing normal temperature readings, etc.
• The records are to be kept as long as there is any chance of a horse showing signs of infection after the event.
Dr Rahaley said a contingency plan must also be considered.
In a worst-case-scenario, the organisation must be able to ensure there was adequate provision for horses if the whole site is quarantined,
- stabling of yards,
- getting in supplies of feed,
- providing disinfectant, accommodation and washing facilties for riders.
The quarantine zone should be anything up to a 10-kilometre radius around the lockdown area, and quarantine could easily last for six weeks.
Dr Rahaley stressed the need for careful planning to minimise any risk of infection and to comply with the law.
He said PIRSA would make random checks on any horse event at any time.
"When it is proved that the virus no longer exists in Australia, event organisers can go back to their previous arrangements," Dr Rahaley said.
But he thinks many organisations will choose to adopt the above precautions permanently, realising that they are largely a matter of common sense.
When asked why recreational riders are seen as the 'poor relations' of the horse world and why the virus vaccine is only available to the racing industry, Dr Rahaley said he believed that the virus could still be eliminated without country-wide vaccinations.
"The vaccination program is very expensive," he said. "And owners would be committted to a program costing $90 million - Australia-wide - each year.
"The recreational riders are the ones who can least afford more costs added to the already heavy expense of keeping a horse."
SOURCE: Breaking news from the Stock Journal, SA, November 15.
Endurance trial event proves successful -Nov 17 2007
Horsetalk.co.nz - Full article
First-placed horse and rider, Naser Marzouqi (UAE) riding Hafiza du Mas.
Photo: Cidinha Franzao
November 17 2007
Heavy tropical storms and torrential rain greeted the 38 horse and rider combinations who set out on the first phase of the FEI CEI 3* Trial event at Terengganu, East Malaysia last weekend.
Eighteen combinations from around the world joined by 20 locally based combinations took part in the trial event to assess the weather conditions and facilities planned for the 2008 FEI World Senior Endurance Championships.
This second trial event was part of the two-year-preparations being undertaken by the organising company YDSM and the Malaysian Equestrian Federation.
The event, The Sultan's Cup Terengganu Endurance Challenge 2007, needed to meet the minimum criteria for overseas combinations (40% completion rate within 16 hours ride time) imposed by the FEI to asses the safety and ability of horses to successfully compete in the climate of Terengganu State.
The tropical storm and heavy rains in fact produced cool, near ideal conditions - albeit very wet, which brought about a completion rate of 66% for the overseas combinations who had arrived some three weeks earlier into the extensive quarantine facilities purpose built for the event by the OC.
These facilities are part of a newly constructed International Endurance Centre which includes full equine hospital, central vet gate, full conference and hospitality buildings together with extensive catering outlets.
Some six nations from South America, North America, Europe, The Middle East and Asia were hosted by the organisers. These nations were also joined by riders from the UAE and Malaysian based South Africa and Australian riders. Unfortunately though, no Australian based combinations that had been invited by the organisers were able to compete. They had been prevented from traveling because of the recent equine travel restrictions imposed in Australia.
First to cross the finish line at just after 8am the following morning was Naser Marzouqi from the UAE riding Hafiza Du Mas, with a total ride time of 10 hours 31 minutes giving an average speed of 14.86kph. Jack Begaud from France with Idais Tohiba was second with a speed of 14.82kph. UAE rider Khalid Al Shafar on Supreme Dream took third place by a short head in an exciting racing finish for the line just ahead of Maria Vitoria Liberal Lins on Filoteu Rach from Brazil, both riding at 14.69kph.
The first 16 combinations all successfully completed the 160 kms achieving the present minimum FEI Championship qualifying speed of 12 kph.
The final ride detail showed that of the 18 overseas combinations that started the ride, 66% achieved completion and were joined by over 50% of the locally based horses and riders. Eight horses were presented for the Best Conditioned Award later that morning.
Whilst everyone taking part in the trial event accepted that the cool wet weather had greatly assisted in the high performances achieved, there was praise from the teams for the dedication and commitment from the Malaysian organisers.
Ian Williams, the FEI Director for Endurance who attended the event commented, "The trial run has fully met the criteria imposed by the FEI and the facilities present at the venue were of the highest standard."
"The weather was extremely kind so no one must forget what the temperature and humidity can be like and to think that it is easy to complete 160kms in tropical conditions," he said. "However those who have been successful at this trial event have shown that with the right degree of experience and care, and with assistance from the cooler weather, it is possible to compete safely in Terengganu."
First-placed horse and rider, Naser Marzouqi (UAE) riding Hafiza du Mas.Photo: Cidinha Franzao
November 17 2007
Heavy tropical storms and torrential rain greeted the 38 horse and rider combinations who set out on the first phase of the FEI CEI 3* Trial event at Terengganu, East Malaysia last weekend.
Eighteen combinations from around the world joined by 20 locally based combinations took part in the trial event to assess the weather conditions and facilities planned for the 2008 FEI World Senior Endurance Championships.
This second trial event was part of the two-year-preparations being undertaken by the organising company YDSM and the Malaysian Equestrian Federation.
The event, The Sultan's Cup Terengganu Endurance Challenge 2007, needed to meet the minimum criteria for overseas combinations (40% completion rate within 16 hours ride time) imposed by the FEI to asses the safety and ability of horses to successfully compete in the climate of Terengganu State.
The tropical storm and heavy rains in fact produced cool, near ideal conditions - albeit very wet, which brought about a completion rate of 66% for the overseas combinations who had arrived some three weeks earlier into the extensive quarantine facilities purpose built for the event by the OC.
These facilities are part of a newly constructed International Endurance Centre which includes full equine hospital, central vet gate, full conference and hospitality buildings together with extensive catering outlets.
Some six nations from South America, North America, Europe, The Middle East and Asia were hosted by the organisers. These nations were also joined by riders from the UAE and Malaysian based South Africa and Australian riders. Unfortunately though, no Australian based combinations that had been invited by the organisers were able to compete. They had been prevented from traveling because of the recent equine travel restrictions imposed in Australia.
First to cross the finish line at just after 8am the following morning was Naser Marzouqi from the UAE riding Hafiza Du Mas, with a total ride time of 10 hours 31 minutes giving an average speed of 14.86kph. Jack Begaud from France with Idais Tohiba was second with a speed of 14.82kph. UAE rider Khalid Al Shafar on Supreme Dream took third place by a short head in an exciting racing finish for the line just ahead of Maria Vitoria Liberal Lins on Filoteu Rach from Brazil, both riding at 14.69kph.
The first 16 combinations all successfully completed the 160 kms achieving the present minimum FEI Championship qualifying speed of 12 kph.
The final ride detail showed that of the 18 overseas combinations that started the ride, 66% achieved completion and were joined by over 50% of the locally based horses and riders. Eight horses were presented for the Best Conditioned Award later that morning.
Whilst everyone taking part in the trial event accepted that the cool wet weather had greatly assisted in the high performances achieved, there was praise from the teams for the dedication and commitment from the Malaysian organisers.
Ian Williams, the FEI Director for Endurance who attended the event commented, "The trial run has fully met the criteria imposed by the FEI and the facilities present at the venue were of the highest standard."
"The weather was extremely kind so no one must forget what the temperature and humidity can be like and to think that it is easy to complete 160kms in tropical conditions," he said. "However those who have been successful at this trial event have shown that with the right degree of experience and care, and with assistance from the cooler weather, it is possible to compete safely in Terengganu."
FEI Bureau Meeting, Dubai (UAE), 15-16 November 2007
Corporate
Legal
Communications & Commercial
Endurance
Endurance:
The main item brought to the attention of the Bureau for information and approval following the meeting of the FEI Endurance Committee in Paris (FRA) on 2 April 2007 was the progress made by the Endurance Task Force established to carry out a full review of the discipline.
The Task Force's mandate is to proactively gather ideas/suggestions and propose changes indicative of the collective wish to continue to develop and raise the standards and perception of international Endurance around the world, keeping Horse Welfare issues as a primary concern.
Assigned areas of responsibility include:
1. Qualification - James Bryant (CAN): Criteria for Championships, Horse Log book/Results Record, Weights, Regional Championships, Handicap System, Leasing of Horses
2. Organization - Vijay Moorthy (IND): Public perception, Dress, Terminology, Abandonment of Events - Protocol, Approved technology, Handicap system.
3. Equine Protection - Fred Barrelet (SUI): Equitation training, Equine research, Minimum rest period between events, Local environment monitoring, Hold/Presentation/Criteria evaluation, Progression through ride distances.
4. Education - Maurizio Stecco (ITA): TD/Course designers, Availability of qualified officials, Maintenance of Official status, FEI database, Courses and development, Star rating of officials.
5. Legal Controls - Art Priesz (USA): Metabolic eliminations, Rider suspension, Enforced rest periods (horses).
6. Competition Structure - John Robertson (GBR): Low level distances (are they a danger?), star rating of distances, Number of vet gates - climate, TD responsibilities, Progressive closing of vet gates, Best Condition Rules.
The areas that have been looked at by the Task Force are:
Qualification criteria for horses and riders to compete in FEI events
Logbook
Event Development (Public perception)
Dress
Terminology
Abandonment of Events
Approved Technology
Handicap System
Roles of Official
Training of Officials
Categories and Rankings of Officials
Low Level Distances
Star Rating - distances
Technical Delegate Responsibilities
Best Condition Rules
Minimum weight
Corporate:
The FEI Bureau held its statutory meeting on 15 and 16 November in Dubai (UAE). This report is an overview of the main items covered at the meeting.
AN FEI OPERATIONS MANUAL, which is the natural process to follow the organisation’s Internal Regulations, is being prepared. More than another set of regulations, the Manual is intended to document FEI’s main processes as they are performed today; show their relationship to various bodies in and out the organisation; and define ownership for processes. This is the first step in institutionalising FEI’s operations and making them independent of individual’s expertise or experience. Approximately 160 processes have been documented to date. The Manual will provide a solid base for transparency; it will demystify complexity, increase service level to stakeholders and put an end to a culture of rumour. The Manual will be submitted to the Bureau’s approval at its spring meeting in April 2008.
AUDIT AND COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE
The former FEI Finance Committee has been replaced by an Audit and Compliance Committee (ACC). The internal regulations of the ACC specifying its purpose; reporting process; election and composition; functioning; responsibilities and objectives; and periodicity and method of audit were approved by the Bureau.
The purpose of the ACC is to have a direct oversight responsibility for compliance with FEI Statutes, Internal Regulations, policies and procedures and Swiss law; internal control and risk evaluation; external auditors. Its main responsibility is to identify and control any risks as well as to ensure that those are adequately managed within the organisation.
NOMINATIONS COMMITTEE
The detailed proposal submitted by the FEI Nominations Committee after its first meeting held in Lausanne in November was discussed at length. The comments made by the Bureau will be sent back to the Nominations Committee. The finalised version of the report will be sent to the NFs after which it will be made public.
CHAMPIONSHIPS
The Bureau allocated the following Championships:
2008
World Reining, Manerbio (ITA)
World Para-Equestrian Driving, St. Martin Greven-Bockholt (GER), 27-29 June
World Breeding Endurance, Compiegne (FRA), 22-24 Aug.
European Children, Athens (GRE), 10-13 July
South American Young, Riders/Juniors/Pre-Juniors & Children Jumping, Deodoro Military Club/ Rio de Janeiro (BRA), 2-5 Oct.
Balkan Seniors/Young Riders/Juniors & Children Jumping, Plovdiv (BUL), 4-7 Sept.
Balkan Senior Dressage, Istanbul (TUR), 20-22 June
Balkan Senior Eventing, Eskisehir (TUR), 27-29 June
Balkan Seniors Endurance, (ROU), 12-14 Sept.
European Veterans Jumping, Barcelona (ESP), 9-12 Oct.
2009
World Driving Pairs, Kecskemet (HUN), 18-23 Aug.
World Combined Ponies, St. Martin Greven (GER), 2-14 Aug.
World Young Riders/Juniors Endurance, Balbona (HUN), Dates TBC
European Para-Equestrian, Kristiansand (NOR), 20-24 Aug.
European Young Riders & Juniors Jumping, Hoofdoorf (NED), 9-12 July
European Young Riders & Juniors Dressage, Ermelo (NED), Dates TBC
European Children, Moorsele (BEL), 30 July–2 Aug
Pan American Endurance, Costa Azul (URU), 15-30 April
2010
World Driving Singles, Pratoni del Vivaro (ITA), June
The 2009 Rolex FEI World Cup TM Finals Jumping and Dressage had been allocated to Las Vegas by the FEI Executive Board.
CALENDAR
The 2008 calendar of FEI International Events was approved.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY
The current General Assembly format is being reviewed in order to take full advantage of the General Assembly week and keep it interesting and dynamic. A slightly modified version especially in regard to regional group meetings was approved for the FEI General Assembly which will take place in Buenos Aires (ARG) in November 2008.
Commercial & Communications:
An extensive report on the activities of the Commercial and Communications Departments was presented. Cooperation with FEI’s major sponsors is progressing well and thanks to the support of Rolex with the Rolex World Cup TM, Samsung with the Samsung Super League with FEI and Alltech with the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2010, these events are evolving towards an unprecedented level of professionalism. Further efforts were still required in improving FEI top properties especially where competition format, standardisation and rights were concerned.
The Television Magazine “FEI Equestrian World” now reaches billions of viewers. Its contents has so far included 28 personality and lifestyle interviews; 14 event reports; 22 behind the scenes reports; 6 development stories; 21 series and event previews; eight results reports and one archive piece.
Another platform through which horsesport – and especially those disciplines who do not receive much traditional television coverage – can be promoted globally is Internet Protocol Television (IPTV).
Apart from news, live results, interviewers of winners, winning rounds, previews and reviews, it can include on demand highlights programmes, archive footage and educational programmes. FEI Television has an impressive collection of footage going back many years and is now in the very favourable position to put it to good use.
FEI Communications activities are expanding. The volume of news released since January 2007 has tripled as compared to previous years. As a result, the number of unique visitors to www.horsesport.org – soon to become www.fei.org – has increased from an average of 55’794 per month in 2006 to 71’376 in 2007.
An important problem identified further to the Championships, which took place throughout the summer, was the standard of media facilities and television production at FEI events. Necessary standards were not always met which resulted in difficult working conditions, delays and general discontent. It was agreed that it was a problem with which the FEI had to deal diligently from the initial bidding process.
FEI Licensing activities are also progressing at good pace. The videogame My Horse and Me, which will be launched in two weeks, has been well received by consumers. 450,000 pieces have been pre-ordered. The FEI is particularly satisfied with the fact 21 NFs have been involved in this project and its success is due to the level of cooperation reached.
Legal:
Figures for 2007
33 cases (not including “Fast Track”) processed by the Tribunal (from 2007 and earlier years)
Only 4 cases, recently submitted to or hears by, are currently with Tribunal awaiting issuance of decisions
11 hearings (5 – in person; 6 – by conference calls)
4 appeals to CAS (2 withdrawn; one decided in favour of FEI; one pending)
Cases from the 2007 Events
38 cases opened (including “Fast Track”) to date (32 processed and 6 being processed by Legal Department)
Out of the 32 processed:
26 decisions issued
3 decisions in draft to be issued shortly
2 dropped by investigative body
1 with Tribunal
The total average time of process of cases, which involves the samples analysis, the evaluation of the case and gathering evidence as well as the decision making process is still too long and needs to be looked at in its entirety in order to ensure timely processing of cases.
The following trends in relation to sanctions can be noted:
Gradual increase of average sanctions
New sanctions better aligned with WADA
Multiplicity of factors affecting sanctions including type of substances, explanations, legitimacy of original treatment, timing of treatment, degree of negligence, level of event, experience of rider, previous record, cooperation in investigation and many other factors
Consistency among Tribunal panels must be improved
Were identified as goals for 2008:
Improving consistency among Panels
Consistent communication regarding cases
Education of the persons responsible
Possible short process for Olympic Games and FEI World Equestrian Games
Legal
Communications & Commercial
Endurance
Endurance:
The main item brought to the attention of the Bureau for information and approval following the meeting of the FEI Endurance Committee in Paris (FRA) on 2 April 2007 was the progress made by the Endurance Task Force established to carry out a full review of the discipline.
The Task Force's mandate is to proactively gather ideas/suggestions and propose changes indicative of the collective wish to continue to develop and raise the standards and perception of international Endurance around the world, keeping Horse Welfare issues as a primary concern.
Assigned areas of responsibility include:
1. Qualification - James Bryant (CAN): Criteria for Championships, Horse Log book/Results Record, Weights, Regional Championships, Handicap System, Leasing of Horses
2. Organization - Vijay Moorthy (IND): Public perception, Dress, Terminology, Abandonment of Events - Protocol, Approved technology, Handicap system.
3. Equine Protection - Fred Barrelet (SUI): Equitation training, Equine research, Minimum rest period between events, Local environment monitoring, Hold/Presentation/Criteria evaluation, Progression through ride distances.
4. Education - Maurizio Stecco (ITA): TD/Course designers, Availability of qualified officials, Maintenance of Official status, FEI database, Courses and development, Star rating of officials.
5. Legal Controls - Art Priesz (USA): Metabolic eliminations, Rider suspension, Enforced rest periods (horses).
6. Competition Structure - John Robertson (GBR): Low level distances (are they a danger?), star rating of distances, Number of vet gates - climate, TD responsibilities, Progressive closing of vet gates, Best Condition Rules.
The areas that have been looked at by the Task Force are:
Corporate:
The FEI Bureau held its statutory meeting on 15 and 16 November in Dubai (UAE). This report is an overview of the main items covered at the meeting.
AN FEI OPERATIONS MANUAL, which is the natural process to follow the organisation’s Internal Regulations, is being prepared. More than another set of regulations, the Manual is intended to document FEI’s main processes as they are performed today; show their relationship to various bodies in and out the organisation; and define ownership for processes. This is the first step in institutionalising FEI’s operations and making them independent of individual’s expertise or experience. Approximately 160 processes have been documented to date. The Manual will provide a solid base for transparency; it will demystify complexity, increase service level to stakeholders and put an end to a culture of rumour. The Manual will be submitted to the Bureau’s approval at its spring meeting in April 2008.
AUDIT AND COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE
The former FEI Finance Committee has been replaced by an Audit and Compliance Committee (ACC). The internal regulations of the ACC specifying its purpose; reporting process; election and composition; functioning; responsibilities and objectives; and periodicity and method of audit were approved by the Bureau.
The purpose of the ACC is to have a direct oversight responsibility for compliance with FEI Statutes, Internal Regulations, policies and procedures and Swiss law; internal control and risk evaluation; external auditors. Its main responsibility is to identify and control any risks as well as to ensure that those are adequately managed within the organisation.
NOMINATIONS COMMITTEE
The detailed proposal submitted by the FEI Nominations Committee after its first meeting held in Lausanne in November was discussed at length. The comments made by the Bureau will be sent back to the Nominations Committee. The finalised version of the report will be sent to the NFs after which it will be made public.
CHAMPIONSHIPS
The Bureau allocated the following Championships:
2008
World Reining, Manerbio (ITA)
World Para-Equestrian Driving, St. Martin Greven-Bockholt (GER), 27-29 June
World Breeding Endurance, Compiegne (FRA), 22-24 Aug.
European Children, Athens (GRE), 10-13 July
South American Young, Riders/Juniors/Pre-Juniors & Children Jumping, Deodoro Military Club/ Rio de Janeiro (BRA), 2-5 Oct.
Balkan Seniors/Young Riders/Juniors & Children Jumping, Plovdiv (BUL), 4-7 Sept.
Balkan Senior Dressage, Istanbul (TUR), 20-22 June
Balkan Senior Eventing, Eskisehir (TUR), 27-29 June
Balkan Seniors Endurance, (ROU), 12-14 Sept.
European Veterans Jumping, Barcelona (ESP), 9-12 Oct.
2009
World Driving Pairs, Kecskemet (HUN), 18-23 Aug.
World Combined Ponies, St. Martin Greven (GER), 2-14 Aug.
World Young Riders/Juniors Endurance, Balbona (HUN), Dates TBC
European Para-Equestrian, Kristiansand (NOR), 20-24 Aug.
European Young Riders & Juniors Jumping, Hoofdoorf (NED), 9-12 July
European Young Riders & Juniors Dressage, Ermelo (NED), Dates TBC
European Children, Moorsele (BEL), 30 July–2 Aug
Pan American Endurance, Costa Azul (URU), 15-30 April
2010
World Driving Singles, Pratoni del Vivaro (ITA), June
The 2009 Rolex FEI World Cup TM Finals Jumping and Dressage had been allocated to Las Vegas by the FEI Executive Board.
CALENDAR
The 2008 calendar of FEI International Events was approved.
GENERAL ASSEMBLY
The current General Assembly format is being reviewed in order to take full advantage of the General Assembly week and keep it interesting and dynamic. A slightly modified version especially in regard to regional group meetings was approved for the FEI General Assembly which will take place in Buenos Aires (ARG) in November 2008.
Commercial & Communications:
An extensive report on the activities of the Commercial and Communications Departments was presented. Cooperation with FEI’s major sponsors is progressing well and thanks to the support of Rolex with the Rolex World Cup TM, Samsung with the Samsung Super League with FEI and Alltech with the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2010, these events are evolving towards an unprecedented level of professionalism. Further efforts were still required in improving FEI top properties especially where competition format, standardisation and rights were concerned.
The Television Magazine “FEI Equestrian World” now reaches billions of viewers. Its contents has so far included 28 personality and lifestyle interviews; 14 event reports; 22 behind the scenes reports; 6 development stories; 21 series and event previews; eight results reports and one archive piece.
Another platform through which horsesport – and especially those disciplines who do not receive much traditional television coverage – can be promoted globally is Internet Protocol Television (IPTV).
Apart from news, live results, interviewers of winners, winning rounds, previews and reviews, it can include on demand highlights programmes, archive footage and educational programmes. FEI Television has an impressive collection of footage going back many years and is now in the very favourable position to put it to good use.
FEI Communications activities are expanding. The volume of news released since January 2007 has tripled as compared to previous years. As a result, the number of unique visitors to www.horsesport.org – soon to become www.fei.org – has increased from an average of 55’794 per month in 2006 to 71’376 in 2007.
An important problem identified further to the Championships, which took place throughout the summer, was the standard of media facilities and television production at FEI events. Necessary standards were not always met which resulted in difficult working conditions, delays and general discontent. It was agreed that it was a problem with which the FEI had to deal diligently from the initial bidding process.
FEI Licensing activities are also progressing at good pace. The videogame My Horse and Me, which will be launched in two weeks, has been well received by consumers. 450,000 pieces have been pre-ordered. The FEI is particularly satisfied with the fact 21 NFs have been involved in this project and its success is due to the level of cooperation reached.
Legal:
Figures for 2007
Cases from the 2007 Events
38 cases opened (including “Fast Track”) to date (32 processed and 6 being processed by Legal Department)
Out of the 32 processed:
26 decisions issued
3 decisions in draft to be issued shortly
2 dropped by investigative body
1 with Tribunal
The total average time of process of cases, which involves the samples analysis, the evaluation of the case and gathering evidence as well as the decision making process is still too long and needs to be looked at in its entirety in order to ensure timely processing of cases.
The following trends in relation to sanctions can be noted:
Were identified as goals for 2008:
AUS: Avery pipped at line after 80km ride
Marlborough endurance riding star Kylie Avery and Silands Jasark had to settle for second place after being pipped at the post in last Saturday's ride at The Teme in the Avon Valley.
In a gallop finish Avery finished a fraction of a second behind Nelson rider Alison Higgins and Twynham El Omar who clocked a time of six hours 57.20mins for the 80km ride.
The thrilling finish was the second in recent weeks between the duo with Avery having got the better Higgins on her home turf previously.
While missing the race win Avery did have the consolation of seeing Silands Jasark awarded best conditioned horse.
Lorraine Stratford and Jay won the open 40km ride in a respectable time of 3.23.42, 14 minutes clear of Oxford rider Peter May on Silands TricTrac and Canterbury's Jenny Worsfold and Chandalla Chiffon. The trip north was worth it for May with Silands TricTrac taking out the best conditioned horse, making it a double for the local Silands stud.
Other local riders to qualify in the 40km endurance ride were Jaime Heywood and Black Galaxy, Lisa Ryan and Stonelea Silver Warrior, Oliver Radford and Silands Nizeta, Lisa Avery and Silands Mia Bella, Wendy Hodgkinson and Temptations Future, Missy Green and Xavier Cheerokee, and Natalie Roberts and Willowvale Barak.
Riding in the 25km training Rai Valley's Peter and Rosemary Schupbach both qualified.
Full results can be found in The Marlborough Express November 15.
Marzouqi wins Malaysian ride
Staff Report
Published: November 16, 2007, 00:10
Image by Cidinha FranzaoDubai: The UAE's Naser Marzouqi on Hafiza Du Mas won the 160-km Sultans Cup in Terengganu, Malaysia last week with countryman Khalid Al Shafar finishing fourth on Supreme Dream.
Ali Moosa Al Khamiri, General Manager of Dubai Equestrian Club, who was Chef d'Equipe of the UAE team, said the Emirati riders did extremely well in the night ride which was hit by heavy rain for almost the entire 160-km distance.
The ride, which got off to a 4.30 pm start, also ensured the Malaysia will be hosting the 2008 World Cup as the Organising Committee achieved the requirements of the FEI to host the world championship, according to a press release.
"The first two loops saw two Malaysian riders around 10 minutes ahead of the main group but the UAE riders made up ground and departed into the second and third loop in second and fourth place respectively," Ali Moosa said.
Last loop
"In the third loop, the two UAE riders, two Brazilians and a Malaysian rider were misdirected by a steward and ended up doing an extra 2.5 kms.
"That allowed French rider Jack Begaud gain a 17 minute lead but the UAE's Naser Marzouqi stayed in second place," he said.
Marzouqi went into the last loop close behind Begaud and soon overtook the Frenchman with a final loop average speed of nearly 25kmph to win.
He and Hafiza Du Mas completed the 160-km ride in a timing of 10 hrs 31 mins 50 secs.
Begaud finished second while Al Shafar and Brazil's Maria Vitoria finished almost joint third though a second separated the two to leave the UAE rider in fourth place.
The UAE winner Hafiza du Mas, trained by Antonio Moreno for the Emirates Stables won the Best Conditioned horse award.
"In the closing ceremony the speaker said 'It is often said the best Chefs come from France, the best Engineers come from Germany, and now we can also say the best endurance riders come from UAE,' purred Ali Moosa.
Results
* 1. Naser Marzouqi - UAE- (Hafiza Du Mas) 10 hrs 31 mins 50 secs;
* 2. Jack Begaud -France-(Idais Tohiba) 10:33:27;
* 3. Maria Vitoria-Brazil-(Filoteu Rich) 10:39.07;
* 4. Khalid Al Zafra-UAE-(Supreme Dream) 10:39.08;
* 5. Catherine Brunjes-USA-(Theatric) 11:02 .05.
Original Article
Published: November 16, 2007, 00:10
Image by Cidinha Franzao
Ali Moosa Al Khamiri, General Manager of Dubai Equestrian Club, who was Chef d'Equipe of the UAE team, said the Emirati riders did extremely well in the night ride which was hit by heavy rain for almost the entire 160-km distance.
The ride, which got off to a 4.30 pm start, also ensured the Malaysia will be hosting the 2008 World Cup as the Organising Committee achieved the requirements of the FEI to host the world championship, according to a press release.
"The first two loops saw two Malaysian riders around 10 minutes ahead of the main group but the UAE riders made up ground and departed into the second and third loop in second and fourth place respectively," Ali Moosa said.
Last loop
"In the third loop, the two UAE riders, two Brazilians and a Malaysian rider were misdirected by a steward and ended up doing an extra 2.5 kms.
"That allowed French rider Jack Begaud gain a 17 minute lead but the UAE's Naser Marzouqi stayed in second place," he said.
Marzouqi went into the last loop close behind Begaud and soon overtook the Frenchman with a final loop average speed of nearly 25kmph to win.
He and Hafiza Du Mas completed the 160-km ride in a timing of 10 hrs 31 mins 50 secs.
Begaud finished second while Al Shafar and Brazil's Maria Vitoria finished almost joint third though a second separated the two to leave the UAE rider in fourth place.
The UAE winner Hafiza du Mas, trained by Antonio Moreno for the Emirates Stables won the Best Conditioned horse award.
"In the closing ceremony the speaker said 'It is often said the best Chefs come from France, the best Engineers come from Germany, and now we can also say the best endurance riders come from UAE,' purred Ali Moosa.
Results
* 1. Naser Marzouqi - UAE- (Hafiza Du Mas) 10 hrs 31 mins 50 secs;
* 2. Jack Begaud -France-(Idais Tohiba) 10:33:27;
* 3. Maria Vitoria-Brazil-(Filoteu Rich) 10:39.07;
* 4. Khalid Al Zafra-UAE-(Supreme Dream) 10:39.08;
* 5. Catherine Brunjes-USA-(Theatric) 11:02 .05.
Original Article
Pan Arab Endurance: Egypt seeks UAE assistance
UAE Equestrian Federation
Egypt had sought the help of the UAE to help them organize the equestrian activities in general and endurance riding in particular, during the forthcoming 11th Pan-Arab Games, which is scheduled to be held in Cairo from November 11, 2007.
The Egyptian Equestrian Federation through a letter addressed to the Secretary General of the
UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation, requested technical support and guidelines to organize endurance ride as part of the Pan-Arab Games.
The letter hailed the development of endurance sport in the UAE with the able support of the country's rulers, as a result of which the UAE today is the global leader in endurance discipline. The letter said that the UAE has been actively involved in organizing endurance rides not only in their country but are also instrumental in helping several other countries in the region to develop the sport. "Their superiority in the field knows bounds and we request them for their support."
Two endurance officials Ahmed Ali Al Hammadi and Mohammed Esa Al Adhab from the UAE visited Egypt to offer their inputs in making the endurance rides successful.
The venues of the Pan-Arab Games will be in eight governorates in Egypt, namely Cairo, Giza, Port Said, Ismailia, Alexandria, Assiut, Aswan and North Sinai, said the official on condition of anonymity.
According to Egyptian media reports, it's estimated that some 7,000 sportspersons and officials from 22 Arab countries and regions will participate in the Games.
The Pan-Arab Games are one of the most important regional multi-sport event held in the Arab world, with the first Games being held in 1953 in Alexandria, Egypt.
UAE Endurance team For 11th Pan Arab Games in Egypt
The UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation has nominated the following UAE riders for the 120-km endurance ride to be held as part of the 11th Pan Arab Games on November 19, 2007, at Saqarah Club Endurance Village, Cairo, Egypt.
The riders include Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Sultan bin Sulayem, Mubarak Khalifa Al Shafya, Mohammed Ahmad Ali Al Subose, Majed Mohammed Salman Al Sabri and Abdullah Thani bin Huzaim.
The first four riders are included in the Team Event category.
The Pan-Arab Games are one of the most important regional multi-sport event held in the Arab world, with the first Games being held in 1953 in Alexandria, Egypt.
Two Federation Qualifiers Held for ladies
The UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation, in cooperation with the Al Asayl Endurance Centre, organized two Federation Qualifiers for ladies on Friday, November 9, 2007 at the Al Asayl Endurance Centre, Sweihan, Abu Dhabi.
Eleven lady endurance riders took part in the 80-km Qualifier out of whom nine riders completed the distance successfully. In the second 40-km Qualifier, 14 ladies started the ride in the morning and nine of them completed the distance.
All the rides were held under the patronage of His Excellency Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Chairman of the UAE Equestrian Federation.
The lady riders/horses who completed the 80-km qualifier are as follows:
Sheikha Alyazia bint Sultan Al Nahyan (Yeraandco Jakara Silver, eight-year-old grey gelding owned by Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa),
Sheikha Maryam bint Omeir Al Qassimi (Sultan, six-year-old bay gelding),
Afra Khalifa Al Suwaidi (Jen A Dale Zamarah, chestnut mare, Al Reef Stables),
Nouf Mohd Khamis Al Dhaheri, Sekura, 10-year-old chestnut mare, Al Reef Stables),
Reem Shaban Ibrahim Hasan, (Rivendell Sharman, 13-year-old chestnut gelding, Al Reef Stables),
Dana Ahmed Al Mansoor (Al Galhan, nine-year-old bay gelding, Al Reef Stables),
Shamsah Awad Al Otaiba (Eden Hope Liberty, 10-year-old grey gelding,
Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa),
Nariman Abdul Aziz Al Rostamani ( Lucien De Loube Jac, eight-year-old grey gelding,
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum),
Sonia Le Hecho (Steel the Thunder, 11-year-old grey gelding,
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum).
In the 40-km Qualifier, the following riders/horses completed the distance:
Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan Al Nahyan (Sonia, eight-year-old chestnut mare, Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa),
Sheikha Asma Taleb Al Qassimi (Castlebar Navho, six-year-old grey gelding, Sheikh Faisal bin Saqr Al Qassimi),
Amna Jumaa Al Awami,VVC Bon Vivant, 16-year-old chestnut gelding,
Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qassimi),
Brenda Cooke (Al Habeeba, 14-year-old bay mare, Al Asayl Management),
Madiyah Masaood Al Mehairi, Raheef, 14-year-old gelding owned by rider),
Azza Mohd. Hela Al Kaabi (Sahi, eight-year-old bay gelding,
Obaid Ghedayer Al Dhaheri),
May Yousef Mubarak Al Khemairi, Baraka Latih, 10-year-old grey gelding, Al Rawahei Pvt. Stables),
Sonja Timani (RS Jaabir, 10-year-old bay gelding, owned by rider),
Mariam Mohammed Saeed Al Suwaidi (Botusa Park Tulas Lad, 12-year-old chestnut gelding, Hassan Rakan Al Mansouri).
Original Article
Egypt had sought the help of the UAE to help them organize the equestrian activities in general and endurance riding in particular, during the forthcoming 11th Pan-Arab Games, which is scheduled to be held in Cairo from November 11, 2007.The Egyptian Equestrian Federation through a letter addressed to the Secretary General of the
UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation, requested technical support and guidelines to organize endurance ride as part of the Pan-Arab Games.
The letter hailed the development of endurance sport in the UAE with the able support of the country's rulers, as a result of which the UAE today is the global leader in endurance discipline. The letter said that the UAE has been actively involved in organizing endurance rides not only in their country but are also instrumental in helping several other countries in the region to develop the sport. "Their superiority in the field knows bounds and we request them for their support."
Two endurance officials Ahmed Ali Al Hammadi and Mohammed Esa Al Adhab from the UAE visited Egypt to offer their inputs in making the endurance rides successful.
The venues of the Pan-Arab Games will be in eight governorates in Egypt, namely Cairo, Giza, Port Said, Ismailia, Alexandria, Assiut, Aswan and North Sinai, said the official on condition of anonymity.
According to Egyptian media reports, it's estimated that some 7,000 sportspersons and officials from 22 Arab countries and regions will participate in the Games.
The Pan-Arab Games are one of the most important regional multi-sport event held in the Arab world, with the first Games being held in 1953 in Alexandria, Egypt.
UAE Endurance team For 11th Pan Arab Games in Egypt
The UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation has nominated the following UAE riders for the 120-km endurance ride to be held as part of the 11th Pan Arab Games on November 19, 2007, at Saqarah Club Endurance Village, Cairo, Egypt.
The riders include Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Sultan bin Sulayem, Mubarak Khalifa Al Shafya, Mohammed Ahmad Ali Al Subose, Majed Mohammed Salman Al Sabri and Abdullah Thani bin Huzaim.
The first four riders are included in the Team Event category.
The Pan-Arab Games are one of the most important regional multi-sport event held in the Arab world, with the first Games being held in 1953 in Alexandria, Egypt.
Two Federation Qualifiers Held for ladies
The UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation, in cooperation with the Al Asayl Endurance Centre, organized two Federation Qualifiers for ladies on Friday, November 9, 2007 at the Al Asayl Endurance Centre, Sweihan, Abu Dhabi.
Eleven lady endurance riders took part in the 80-km Qualifier out of whom nine riders completed the distance successfully. In the second 40-km Qualifier, 14 ladies started the ride in the morning and nine of them completed the distance.
All the rides were held under the patronage of His Excellency Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Chairman of the UAE Equestrian Federation.
The lady riders/horses who completed the 80-km qualifier are as follows:
Sheikha Alyazia bint Sultan Al Nahyan (Yeraandco Jakara Silver, eight-year-old grey gelding owned by Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa),
Sheikha Maryam bint Omeir Al Qassimi (Sultan, six-year-old bay gelding),
Afra Khalifa Al Suwaidi (Jen A Dale Zamarah, chestnut mare, Al Reef Stables),
Nouf Mohd Khamis Al Dhaheri, Sekura, 10-year-old chestnut mare, Al Reef Stables),
Reem Shaban Ibrahim Hasan, (Rivendell Sharman, 13-year-old chestnut gelding, Al Reef Stables),
Dana Ahmed Al Mansoor (Al Galhan, nine-year-old bay gelding, Al Reef Stables),
Shamsah Awad Al Otaiba (Eden Hope Liberty, 10-year-old grey gelding,
Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa),
Nariman Abdul Aziz Al Rostamani ( Lucien De Loube Jac, eight-year-old grey gelding,
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum),
Sonia Le Hecho (Steel the Thunder, 11-year-old grey gelding,
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum).
In the 40-km Qualifier, the following riders/horses completed the distance:
Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan Al Nahyan (Sonia, eight-year-old chestnut mare, Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa),
Sheikha Asma Taleb Al Qassimi (Castlebar Navho, six-year-old grey gelding, Sheikh Faisal bin Saqr Al Qassimi),
Amna Jumaa Al Awami,VVC Bon Vivant, 16-year-old chestnut gelding,
Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qassimi),
Brenda Cooke (Al Habeeba, 14-year-old bay mare, Al Asayl Management),
Madiyah Masaood Al Mehairi, Raheef, 14-year-old gelding owned by rider),
Azza Mohd. Hela Al Kaabi (Sahi, eight-year-old bay gelding,
Obaid Ghedayer Al Dhaheri),
May Yousef Mubarak Al Khemairi, Baraka Latih, 10-year-old grey gelding, Al Rawahei Pvt. Stables),
Sonja Timani (RS Jaabir, 10-year-old bay gelding, owned by rider),
Mariam Mohammed Saeed Al Suwaidi (Botusa Park Tulas Lad, 12-year-old chestnut gelding, Hassan Rakan Al Mansouri).
Original Article
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