The charity World Horse Welfare has welcomed the International Equestrian Federation's tough new stance on Rollkur, saying it was good the governing body had drawn a line in the sand over the issue.
Rollkur, or hyperflexion, was discussed at a round-table conference at the FEI Headquarters in Lausanne on February 9, at which the charity was present.
It was agreed that any head and neck position achieved through aggressive force is not acceptable.
The group redefined hyperflexion/Rollkur as flexion of the horse's neck achieved through aggressive force, making it unacceptable. It also defined the technique known as Low, Deep and Round (LDR), as flexion achieved without undue force, making it acceptable.
The FEI has since established a working group, headed by Dressage Committee Chair Frank Kemperman, to expand the current guidelines, which will allow stewards to implement this policy. The findings should be available by the northern spring.
World Horse Welfare chief executive Roly Owers: "World Horse Welfare has never and will never support the use of cruel, aggressive riding of any sort for any period of time.
"We are pleased that the FEI has used this opportunity to draw a clear 'line in the sand' regarding Rollkur.
"Over the past few months we have worked with the FEI and others to find a way forward that will further improve the welfare of horses in competition," he said.
"It is now vital that the decisions made at the February 9 meeting are implemented, and that stewards receive proper guidance and training on what is and what is not acceptable at competitions.
"It is very encouraging that the meeting looked beyond the emotive issue of Rollkur and considered the broader issues of all unacceptable riding.
"The ultimate responsibility for the welfare of the horse rests with the rider, whether at competition or at home. This is often overlooked and the education of riders, as well as stewards, is vital for the good of horse welfare and the reputation of horse sport."
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