EA Online Horse Training and Educational Activities

EA welcomes the participation of members in online training and educational activities during this period of COVID-19 shutdown that prevents riders from competing.

Virtual Dressage Horsesport, Virtual Showjumping Horsesport, Virtual Eventing Horsesport and online training is available so that riders can have their training assessed while adhering to the obligations of social/physical distancing.

Given the lack of usual controls afforded to an official competition, it is not possible for these on-line activities to assure participants of a level playing field in terms of assessment. For this reason the awarding of placings, rankings or prizes as per a typical competition is not appropriate.

Therefore these videoed sessions cannot be classed as a “competition”, given Official status, or used for future qualifications, leaderboard calculations or annual awards. However, they can be used for training purposes with review and feedback provided by a judge.

EA fully supports activities that keep our riders and horses at performance levels and also provide an enjoyable outlet for assessment. We see Virtual Dressage Horsesport, Virtual Showjumping Horsesport and Virtual Eventing Horsesport activities, while not designated as competition per our EA Rules, as still giving riders the opportunity to gain feedback and practice their competitive skills and ensuring the welfare of your horse.

We understand the importance of maintaining training and performance fitness and know that is also the goal of our members.

We would like to highlight the importance during these times of keeping the Welfare of the Horse our priority goal – it is the cornerstone of our sport.

At all times, in training, preparation, and performance in these days of virtual Horsesports we must maintain our commitment and welfare must take precedence over all other demands or situations.

In particular this is adherence to good horse management, training methods, farriery and tack, transport and transit if undertaken.

Good Luck over the coming months as we see our way through this difficult period for our sport.