FEI PRESS RELEASE
21 June 2010
Safety helmets strongly recommended by Dressage Committee
Following the accident in which Courtney King-Dye (USA) sustained serious head injuries in a schooling fall in Florida earlier this year, the FEI Dressage Committee has today issued a recommendation regarding the wearing of protective headgear. The FEI Dressage Committee strongly recommends that all riders should wear properly fastened safety helmets when training and in pre-competition warm-ups at all international Dressage shows.
Riders still have the choice of wearing protective headgear in the competition arena.
Media Contact:
Grania Willis
FEI Director Press Relations
Tel: +41 787 506 142
Email: grania.willis@fei.org
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While it’s a step, it’s more like a half step. The only way the horse community will become very comfortable wearing helmets is if the national governing bodies require approved helmets for competition. Hunter/jumpers went through this a few years ago, and now almost everyone wears helmets almost all of the time. They’ve become as much a part of fashion as breeches and boots. I hope that happens in the dressage community and soon!
How are Jr/YR competitors exempted from the protective helmet for those under 18 and allowed to wear a top hat?
A step in the right direction, but not yet far enough. Are we saying that riders are not at risk during competition? The horse won’t spook, a rider will never fall during competition. Mandate that they are required, then people will wear them. Grumble at first, yes, but wear them they will. I encourage the FEI to take a truly brave and strong stand for safety. The elegance of the sport will not suffer because of helmets.