it. In theory, I think it could be for a long time at the lower levels, as random dope testing is not yet done at the smaller affiliated or riding club shows.


The availability of resources for testing at smaller fixtures was reported by affiliated governing bodies to be a limiting factor in the extent of current dope testing programmes, with an open acknowledgement that the figures reported are not representative of the whole of equestrian sport.


Anecdotal experience of riders suggests that lower level competitors at British Eventing fixtures are more likely to be targeted for testing than in other disciplines, but the most recent figures for tests carried out reveal that, as might be expected, the three major disciplines of showjumping, eventing and dressage have recorded very similar numbers of tests over a given period.


So what should you do if you know someone is actively competing a horse or pony that is being given a ‘banned’ or ‘controlled’ substance? The BRC rulebook states: Ponies or horses taking part in a competition must be healthy and compete on their inherent merits. The use of Prohibited Substances [banned or controlled] might influence a pony’s/ horse’s performance or mask an underlying health problem and could falsely affect the outcome of a competition. - and –


It is forbidden for any rider


to compete whilst under the influence of any stimulating, calming or other drug or substance as detailed in the British Equestrian Federation Rules.


If the competitions are at an affiliated level, then making the show organiser aware is one option, but notifying the relevant governing body of your concern will ensure that attention is drawn to what is regarded as a serious potential rule infringement and that appropriate actions can be taken.


At unaffiliated level, it is always going to be more difficult – and some would argue that an older equine stepping down to an easier life on the odd sachet of ‘bute is, in the great scheme of things, not a huge issue. It all comes down to the individual case and if it’s about so-called ‘pot hunting’ then the show organiser should be helpful as nothing destroys confidence in a show or series of shows than the potential for cheating to underpin success. However, a worse scenario would be an equine welfare issue and if you feel that’s the case, then a conversation with your vet or an equine welfare organisation may be the way forward.


Ultimately, the objective is ‘clean sport’ and we all have a role to play in ensuring that competitions remain both enjoyable and are run on a level playing field, with everyone able to enjoy success based on training, performance and potentially that little bit of luck on the day.


talking tactics Louise Doherty and


Coronach De Sanatana (Corky) Image courtesy of Dave Cameron Photography


Rider Experience - amateur dressage rider Louise Doherty shares her own experience of random testing at an Area Festival


Dope tests – not just for professional riders!


As an amateur rider competing at grassroots level I never thought anyone would care enough to dope test one of my horses - especially when you look at some of our results!


Last year [2016] I was competing at the British Dressage PetPlan Area Festival at the Ian Stark Equestrian Centre and was asked after my dressage test if I would mind if my horse was dope tested. I said it was absolutely fine as apart from his regular feed and supplements, which are all competition legal, my horse had not had anything I should be concerned about.


I was accompanied back to my lorry by the official to let me strip down my horse, pop a rug on and then go round to a quiet stable at the back of the yard to meet the vet.


Advanced level dressage rider Chrissie Havis


and Breithla Capali (Bob) in action Image courtesy of Kevin Sparrow


www.farmnequine.co.uk


The official and the vet then explained that they would take a urine sample from my horse and if that was not possible, they would take a blood sample. Fortunately he was happy to provide a urine sample which made things simpler. The sample was then packaged up and would then be sent off for independent testing. Both the official and the vet were very friendly and made the experience as stress-free for us as possible. They explained


that unless my horse had a positive test, we would not hear anything.


We also chatted about best practice, most things I was already doing, but the information was still usefully and worth sharing:


• Always use separate feed and water buckets for each horse to reduce the chance of cross- contamination.


• If a horse in the yard is receiving medication, prepare its feed last and then wash your hands and the bucket.


• Tell your vet where you are competing.


• Only use feeds that are certified as free from prohibited substances, and from reputable companies. I am lucky enough to be sponsored by Blue Chip Feeds so am always comforted that my feed and supplements are competition legal.


• Be cautious with supplements, especially homemade remedies.


As expected, I never heard anything as my horse tested negative, but it has however made me more aware of what and how I feed my horses.


Equine Page 45


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