Emirates Racing Authority Cracks Down on Medications in UAE

Horsereporter.com - Full Article

December 10, 2013
By Pamela@horsereporter

December 10, 2013, Dubai ~ In a continuing effort to ensure the safety of horses and riders, Emirates Racing Association (ERA) Stewards are delivering messages through fines for medication and other types of infractions found in the UAE racing world. The message was delivered by John Zucal, ERA Chief Steward, that a recent inquiry into a report received from the Central Veterinary Research Laboratory proved that the prohibited substance ibuprofen had been detected in the post-race urine sample taken from DEVDAS (IRE) after it competed and ran second in Race 2 the Emirates Holiday (1400metres) at Meydan on 7 November 2013. This finding has been confirmed by the Singapore Turf Club Laboratory.

Evidence was taken from Mr. Ernst Oertel, trainer of DEVDAS (IRE), Veterinarian Dr. Louise Barbesgaard, Central Veterinary Research Laboratory Chief Analyst Mr. Peter Albert and ERA Head Veterinary Officer, Dr. David Sykes...

Read more here:
http://www.horsereporter.com/2013/12/10/emirates-racing-authority-cracks-down-on-medications-in-uae/

FEI: AERC BOD Provides Recommendations to ESPG's Proposed Plans

December 19 2013

On November 7, 2013, following the FEI General Assembly in Montreux, Switzerland, the Endurance Strategic Planning Group (ESPG) circulated their “plan on a page” for proposed changes within FEI to correct and reform the current egregious issues in regards to equine injuries, fatalities and positive drug tests within the endurance discipline. During a subsequent conference call with the AERC Board of Directors, it was requested by Joe Mattingly, Vice President of USEF and Chair of the High Performance Endurance Committee, that AERC’s Board of Directors provide their specific recommendations in regards to the ESPG’s proposed plan.

The below list is in response to that request.

• Commitment to change. Above all, AERC is concerned as to whether there is a true commitment to change and reform within FEI infrastructure, rather than just rhetoric and “words on a page”. While we understand that some proposed changes may take more than a few months to show measurable improvement, we recommend an immediate demonstration of commitment through a change of leadership within FEI, and especially within the endurance leadership of FEI, that will demonstrate and symbolize FEI’s dedication towards correcting the increasing international perception of compromised integrity within FEI.

• Transparency of equine fatalities. AERC sets an example of transparent reporting of all known equine fatalities related to or occurring during competition. Moreover, AERC subsidizes necropsies for all those fatalities to more completely understand underlying causes of death. We recommend that FEI adopt similar policies, and that results of those fatality investigations be openly published on their website. Additionally, we request that FEI endurance fracture statistics be similarly reported to the general public, scientific and veterinary community.

• Major penalties for responsible individuals, not excluding rider, veterinarian, trainer, owner and stable for infractions of FEI rules and FEI code of conduct. If both riders and owners or stables are sanctioned and prohibited from participating with any horse for a significant period of time following rule infraction, even to the extent of a permanent ban, then steps will be taken by those in the position of authority to ensure all personnel under their influence take care to stringently comply with rules. The results of all disciplinary hearings, sanctions and penalties should be made publicly available. We further recommend that any prize money and placings be forfeited as a mandatory result of rule infraction, and that fines be levied that significantly exceed prize monies.

• Extensive drug testing at major competitions. We recommend increased and extensive drug testing at any FEI ride which is 2* or above, as well as any FEI rides involving substantial prize money or awards.

• Limited competitors per team. We strongly recommend repealing the recent rule change that allows more horses per team, of which the results of only the top three are counted towards awards. This rule contradicts the commitment to equine welfare, as it promotes the ability to compete numerous horses as expendable commodities, rather than striving towards the goals of high completion rates amongst the entirety of the team. As such, we recommend that each team be limited to a maximum of four riders, of which the top three members will count towards a team score, and all four stand on the podium if medaling.

• Certificate of Capability. We recommend that time requirements to qualify for a COC be a reflection of the technicality of the individual course, as opposed to a set and immobile time for distance, regardless of terrain. We are concerned that in response to current requirements, FEI endurance racing has evolved to emphasize courses that are essentially extended flat track courses in order to maximize speed. This has resulted in an increase in the frequency and type of serious injuries to horses previously only associated with flat-track thoroughbred racing. We recommend that COC requirements be redirected to include and emphasize more technical courses, including the practices that allow successful and safe negotiation of difficult terrain.

• Disciplinary action. FEI officials are obligated to promptly investigate and respond to reported rule infractions occurring at events. Officials failing to do so will be severely sanctioned, suspended and/or otherwise removed from officiating duties and opportunities.

• Crewing from moving vehicles. Horses may not be assisted or accompanied in any manner during competition by one or more moving vehicles. Not only does this practice endanger all participants within the immediate area, but doing so also constitutes ‘hazing’ of the target horse to unfairly increase its speed. Crews violating this rule will result in the immediate disqualification of the horse and rider with which they are associated.

• Sponsorship Entities providing significant financial support to the event that constitute a conflict of interest may not be provided with special privileges or allowances as a result of their sponsorship. No VIP passes may be given that allow an unfair advantage to the associated team, or otherwise interferes with the assurance of a level playing field for all participants.

Alltech Salutes the Horse and the Global Equestrian Community

12/17/2013

[LEXINGTON, Ky.]  – Together, with the FEI, Alltech, a leader  in optimal animal health, nutrition and performance, celebrates its allegiance to the horse today with the equestrian community around the world. The FEI has proposed that December 13 be designated the International Day of the Horse, paying homage to horses’ contribution to the global economy, cultural heritage and sport. It is hoped that the official designation will be granted by the United Nations in 2014, quite appropriately the Chinese Year of the Horse.

Alltech has been providing natural nutritional solutions to the equine world since 1980. Now, 33 years later, Alltech technologies can be found in horse feeds and horse supplements spanning the globe. They have fed champions on the racetrack, in Olympic arenas and smallholdings alike – all with equal care. Alltech’s equestrian sport sponsorship, including the Alltech National Horse Show; The Alltech Christmas Puissance at Olympia, the London International Horse Show; the Royal Windsor Grand Prix, the European Jumping and Dressage Championships; and, the most prestigious equestrian event in the world, the Alltech FEI World Equestrian GamesTM 2014 in Normandy, represents its commitment to equestrian sport and peak animal performance through natural nutrition.

“The greatness associated with crowning eight world championships during the Games embodies the Alltech values of performance and excellence, achievable in humans and animals through natural nutrition,” said Dr. Pearse Lyons, Alltech’s founder and president.

Alltech’s expertise in equine nutrition began when its Yea-Sacc® became the first yeast approved for use in horses by the EU. Alltech has continued to seek to improve the horse’s health and performance through its dedicated in-house equine research center, which was launched in 2009, as well as through global research alliances. In March 2013, Alltech initiated a three-year strategic research alliance with France’s leading equine academic institute, AgroSup Dijon, to accelerate advances in the prevention of equine digestive health disorders.

Alltech’s equine research includes natural innovations such as Bio-Mos® and the application of DHA from algae.  
“Today Alltech technologies can be found in many of the top horse feeds and horse supplements globally, and Alltech’s own LIFEFORCE Range optimizes equine performance by helping create a healthy digestive system to maximize nutrient absorption,” said Clare Fahey, Alltech’s global equine and pet marketing manager.

To further the international excitement for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian GamesTM 2014 in Normandy, Alltech has created an exclusive sales and marketing program permitting 40 Alltech Official Partners from more than 33 countries, to differentiate their feeds with brand marks linked to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 in Normandy.

Alltech’s abiding support of the horse and horse lover is also communicated through its Equine Heroes program, which recognizes those who go the extra mile to help others enjoy the fruits of their equine endeavours. Alltech’s Facebook page, Equine Hero, provides the opportunity to nominate heroes and share stories that celebrate all those who work behind the scenes to support the equestrian community.

“Revered throughout the world for their beauty and majestic power, horses have played an integral role in our cultures since the beginning of time. They’ve been our transportation, our cavalry, our industry and our inspiration,” said Dr. Lyons. “So, it’s quite fitting that we set aside a day to specifically honor the horse and the vibrancy it continues to bring today to our global economies and our lives.”

Press Contacts:
Susanna Elliott, Alltech PR
suelliott@alltech.com; +1 859- 473-2696

Marcelle Rousseau,
Equine Sponsorship and PR
mrousseau@alltech.com; 06 72 39 79 59

FEI Endurance Rankings: USA Horses and Riders Top Young Rider Lists

12/18/2013

Germany's Sabrina Arnold retained the FEI Open Riders World Endurance Ranking in first place as of 11/30/2013. France's Virginie Atger is second, and UAE's Abdulla Ghanim al Marri is in third. USA's Cheryl Van Deusen ranks in the top ten in 7th place.

Sweden's Maria Hagman-Eriksson and Al Tayar top the Open Combination World Endurance Ranking, with Toshiaki Hirohashi and Lucky in second. Cheryl Van Deusen and EBS Regal Majjaan rank third.

In the Open Horse World Endurance Ranking, Maria Hagman-Eriksson's Al Tayar is in first place, followed by WT Diego (ridden by Japan's Hiromi Kitaike), with Japan's Lucky in third. Cheryl Van Deusen's EBS Regal Majjaan is ranked 5th.

Uruguay's Maria Pereira tops the Young Riders World Endurance Ranking, with Argentina's Manuela Basombrio in second, and Uruguay's Joaquin Stirling third. Three USA Young Riders are in the top ten: Christina Kimery in 6th, McCamey Kimbler in 7th, and Taylor White in 8th.

In the Young Riders Combination World Endurance Ranking, USA's Taylor White and Hoover the Mover (owned by Cheryl Van Deusen) rank first. Chile's Paula Llorens Clark and Sandek are second, with Uruguay's Frederic Maidana and JQ Zarial third. USA's Christina Kimery and Rohara Royale+ are ranked fifth.

USA horses hold the first two spots in the Young Riders Horse World Endurance Ranking. Rohara Royale+ is first, and Hoover the Mover is second. Chile's Sandek is in third.

For complete rankings, see
https://data.fei.org/Ranking/List.aspx

Australia: EA and AERA forge relationship ahead of the 2014 World Equestrian Games

AERA.asn.au

5 November 2013
EA and AERA forge relationship ahead of the 2014 World Equestrian Games

Equestrian Australia (EA) and the Australian Endurance Riders Association (AERA) have reached an agreement which will see EA assume responsibility for the administration of FEI endurance riders and officials.
A key feature of the agreement will see EA appoint a National Performance Director for endurance as well as develop a national High Performance program for the discipline which is intended to assist those riders vying for team selection to next year’s World Equestrian Games.
In a bid to align international endurance competition in Australia with the international standards implemented by the FEI, Australian endurance riders participating in FEI events will now also need to become members of EA which extends their benefits through insurance as well as high performance opportunities.
FEI endurance officials are also set to benefit with the agreement to allow international officials an opportunity to participate in the full range of relevant EA courses across the Oceania region. Equestrian Australia CEO Mr Grant Baldock is pleased an agreement between the two organisations could be forged in the lead-up to the 2014 World Equestrian Games (WEG).
“We are pleased to have reached an agreement with AERA that will make it easier for riders competing at FEI level. As EA is Australia’s direct link to the FEI, this move will make it easier for riders and officials who wish to compete and officiate at FEI events”.
“Equestrian Australia looks forward to working collaboratively with AERA to field a strong team at next year’s World Equestrian Games and the formation of a high performance program for endurance will give Australian riders the best possible chance for success at Normandy.”
Australia has won more World Equestrian Games medals in Endurance than in any other discipline including one silver and two bronze medals.
The agreement also allows clubs affiliated with AERA state branches to conduct FEI endurance events. Further, endurance riders wishing to compete at an FEI event will need to hold applicable EA membership with their respective state and their horse will also require appropriate FEI documentation.
For more details on the exact requirements for Australian endurance riders, events, officials and clubs – click here.
President of AERA Mr Tom McCormack said, “The AERA is pleased to have concluded the Agreement with EA. The agreement provides a clear and direct pathway for those AERA members pursuing International representation, whilst still providing access for those members simply wishing to compete within the FEI framework. The appointment of a National Performance Director and a High performance program is a major initiative which will directly benefit all members of the Australian Endurance community over time”.
The first matter of business will be for the organisations to elect a National Endurance Committee which will be charged with the task of developing a framework for the discipline moving forward. Individuals wishing to nominate for this committee can do so by completing the nomination form available HERE

FEI: Tougher bans for riders could be on the way

Horseandhound.co.uk - Full Article

December 13 2013

Suspended riders may struggle to sustain a living in the horse industry if the FEI adopts the revised WADA (World Anti Doping Agency) code effective from 2015.

To date, most equestrians cope with doping bans by continuing to teach, produce and sell horses, and can spectate at FEI events. But WADA’s newly approved article 2.10 forbids anyone competing in elite sport having “professional association” with suspended persons.

WADA is also increasing the minimum ban for most offences from two years to four...

Read more here:
http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/tougher-bans-riders-way/#tGpGH1mFCggQ5jqI.99

Malaysia: SEA GAMES: Details Behind Our Double Gold

Malaysiandigest.com - Full Article

12 December 2013

NAYPYITAW: From a stable boy to a SEA Games champion. Kuala Terengganu-born Mohd Sulaiman Muda will leave Naypyitaw as a double SEA Games gold medallist after riding to victory in the 80km equestrian endurance event at the National Equestrian Centre in the wee hours of Wednesday morning.

The riders went for a double strike to bring Malaysia’s gold medal tally to five ahead of the official opening of the Myanmar Games with Abdul Halim Alihan and Asri Abdul Aziz joining him to bring their horses across the finish line for the team title.

This is the first time that the discipline is being included in the SEA Games since 2001 in Kuala Lumpur when Datuk Awang Kamaruddin Abdul Ghani galloped his way to the country’s first gold medal.

Endurance equestrian is usually held at night in the region due to cooler temperatures and to avoid the horses getting dehydrated.

Despite being presented with local-bred horses by the organisers, Sulaiman managed to bring his stallion under control and he eventually passed the Indonesian challengers with one loop to go...

Read more here:
http://www.malaysiandigest.com/sports/481495-sea-games-details-behind-our-double-gold.html