FEI protocol update

THE FEI stewards’ manual for jumping has been updated to include a new protocol, for handling cases of blood on flanks and/or marks which may indicate excessive use of spurs.

It now states that a member of the ground jury must be available throughout the event to examine a horse, at the chief steward’s request, if either blood or marks indicating excessive use of spurs is found.

If a steward notices blood on a horse’s flank at any time the following procedures must be followed.

  • The steward must tell the rider there is an issue with blood on the horse’s flanks.
  • The steward must photograph the horse, the affected area and the spurs, and inform the chief steward.
  • The steward must remain with the horse until the chief steward arrives, ensuring no one touches the area concerned, and that the blood is not removed. If the horse is in a public area, it should be moved to a more private place, and the rider may put a rug over the horse while it is moved.
  • Wearing latex gloves, the chief steward will examine the horse and lay the back of his hand on the affected area to transfer blood on to the glove, which he will then photograph.
  • He will then tell the rider he has to inform the ground jury, and that the horse must stay under a steward’s supervision, and report to the ground jury member responsible for such cases.
  • If blood is not visible, but the horse has marks which could indicate excessive spur use, the steward must summon the chief steward who will examine the horse. A decision on disqualification must not be taken until the designated member of the ground jury has seen the photographs and examined the horse. For further information visit fei.org.

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    THE Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) has launched a new app, for free, that will allow horse trainers, owners and breeders to have reliable advice on equine disease control at their fingertips. The EquiBioSafe App has been designed by vets with support from HBLB, to ensure access to reliable advice on equine disease control wherever you are.

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    The free EquiBioSafe App is available now for iPhones and iPads from iTunes and an android version will be available shortly. For further information contact Annie Dodd, HBLB Grants Manager, annie.dodd@hblb.org.uk, 020 7504 4014.