An Austrian rider is facing disciplinary action and has been barred from all equestrian competition for three months
THE banning of an Austrian rider after footage of his show jumping round went viral has sparked debate over his punishment.
Austrian federation OEPS took action against Berhard Maier after his round on Paddys Darco in a CSI* show at Wiener Neustadt (8-11 June).
The combination demolished the first fence, followed by others, and were eventually eliminated for a second refusal.
In a statement on Tuesday (13 June), OEPS said it was “a black day for horse sport”. In a second statement later that day, regarding Mr Maier’s “shocking performance”, the federation said the 56-year-old has been banned from all equestrian competition for three months.
“We will make every effort to prevent such incidents from harming our wonderful sport significantly,” the statement read.
“Legal procedures have started and the rider will be put in front of our competent tribunal.”
But questions have been asked as to whether banning someone for sub-standard riding is the appropriate action to take.
This story is from the June 22 2017 edition of Horse & Hound.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 22 2017 edition of Horse & Hound.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Gemirande provides 24-carat magic
Venetia Williams sparkles again in the December Gold Cup and jockey brothers dead-heat
‘Happy hunting, everyone'
“The season for talks, dinners and parties has finally arrived for Tessa Waugh, whose distress about the snags of middle age fades away with some rousing festive spirits
'Monaco deserved this victory
Seemingly destined always to play the bridesmaid’s role, Harrie Smolders’ great partner Monaco finally tops an incidentpacked Rolex grand prix
'It had to end sometime'
The closure of beloved Hampshire saddlery Calcutt Sons is a loss to the hunting and wider equestrian worlds, as Octavia Pollock reports
'You couldn't want for more
The Ludlow's peaceful country makes for a day in \"hunting paradise\"
The greatest gift of all
Christmas is fast approaching and while we all like a bit of tinsel, the festive season is also a perfect time for giving to a horse charity. Niki Hinman finds out some of the options
Winter him well
A horse's winter routine can differ dramatically from his summer structure but what’s the knock-on effect? Ellie Hughes asks vets how to optimise routine management for the season
Neat feet
Excellent hoof care is a year-round concern but the winter months present their own problems. Richard Stephenson MRCVS explains the seasonal challenges afoot and how to stay one step ahead
In bygone days
Modern vets have much scientific knowledge behind them, but what about their forebears? Kieran O’Brien MRCVS opens up the world of Victorian vets in London
'When I joined the Pony Club it was just two boys and 48 girls'
Pepsi Kohler on being delightfully outnumbered by girls in the Pony Club, a leg-up from a royal and the H&H advert that changed his life
