FEI's Strategic Leap for Dressage: A New Working Group Initiative
In an exciting development for the Dressage world, the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) has rolled out a dedicated Working Group aimed at crafting a comprehensive Strategic Action Plan. This initiative encapsulates both a modern vision and actionable strategies, all set to revolutionize the sport. Heading this group is George Williams, a veteran in the Dressage community, who, alongside an ensemble of experts, plans to tackle the challenges and opportunities in the field.
A Powerhouse of Expertise: The Working Group Composition
Comprising an eclectic mix of professionals, the Working Group blends diverse perspectives that are essential for shaping the future of Dressage. The dazzling roster includes Olympic gold medalist Monica Theodorescu, Dressage Judge Raphael Saleh, and six-time Olympian Kyra Kyrklund. Adding to this distinguished group are Gareth Hughes, a British Dressage rider with an impressive track record, Klaus Roeser, Chairman of the German National Federation Dressage Committee, and Lise Berg, an Associate Professor at the University of Copenhagen. This team's varied expertise promises a well-rounded approach to addressing Dressage's challenges and propelling the sport toward a sustainable future.
Goals Set High: Objectives and Key Initiatives
The Working Group has laid out ambitious goals with several noteworthy initiatives:
- Comprehensive Review: Conducting a thorough assessment of the current Dressage landscape to pinpoint improvement areas.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Utilizing the valuable feedback gathered from stakeholders to focus on targeted actions. Stakeholder input is anticipated to significantly shape the future rule revisions and strategic directions.
- Scientific Research Repository: Creating an accessible database of scientific research, serving as a critical tool in guiding decision-making and establishing best practices.
- Rule Revisions: Preparing for phased updates with a partial update slated for 2025 and a full Dressage Rules Revision lined up for 2026, heavily inspired by the Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Action Plan.
Transparency as a Guiding Principle
The philosophy of transparency lies at the heart of this initiative. Regular updates are planned for the Dressage Technical Committee, the FEI Board, and relevant stakeholder bodies. This ensures that the path to change remains open and collaborative. The Working Group's debut presentation is scheduled for March 31, 2025, during the FEI Sports Forum. This presentation aims to communicate initial findings and gather further insights.
The Ripple Effect: Implications for Dressage and Beyond
The formation of this Working Group represents a significant stride toward modernizing Dressage. By concentrating on equine welfare and ethical practices, the FEI is committed to cementing Dressage as a discipline that values fairness and horse-centric practices. This modern approach not only meets, but also exceeds, current sports standards and ethics.
As the world of Dressage anticipates transformative change, stakeholders and fans will be watching closely. The decisions and outcomes of this initiative could very well set a benchmark for other equestrian sports, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing horse welfare and ethical conduct.
Final Thoughts
In essence, the FEI's move to set up this high-powered Working Group signifies an earnest effort to democratize and modernize the sport of Dressage. With a dream team of professionals steering this project, optimism abounds for the future of Dressage. And while the stakes are undoubtedly high, so too are the rewards if this initiative fulfills its ambitious promises.
For those interested in the finer details, resources on equine welfare and strategic developments in Dressage can be further explored through the references provided by Bettalife and additional literature from the FEI's General Assembly documentation found through Eurodressage.
