When Riding Turns ‘Bad': Time To Act?

US dressage video sparks debate on qualification criteria and judging

- Eleanor Jones

THE issue of “bad” riding, horse welfare and when officials can step in has raised its head again as video emerged of an amateur dressage rider at a US show.

Footage of one combination riding at inter II level shows the rider using her whip, and kicking while wearing spurs, as she attempts some movements, while the horse can be seen at times bucking and tail-swishing.

The video sparked debate online, with some criticising the rider while others spoke out against “bullying” personal comments, or said judges should have stopped the tests.

Hallye Griffin, dressage managing director of US Equestrian (USEF), said that apart from a score required to qualify for freestyle competitions, USEF “does not have rules in place regarding riding standards or qualifying requirements to move up the levels”.