Horses for Life

JUNE 2006 • VOLUME 10 • ©HORSES For LIFE™ Magazine

Add Your Voice

ach of us is very special soul. Each of us is unique, no one in the universe is quite the same or has exactly the same impact on the world as we do. Even though our awareness may differ from others, our voice is equal to all.

At this time, we would ask that if you wish to join your voice with ours...in respectfully asking the FEI to look further into the practices of Rollkur...that you please join your voice with ours by expressing your opinion below.

Be loyal first to your own true self and what is true for you. You have no need to worship others opinions or creeds. Stand up for your own thoughts and beliefs. You have enough inner strength, wisdom and compassion to handle everything you meet.

You have wisdom and compassion

We all have the freedom to make mistakes, to be wrong, to fail or to be defeated and be less then perfect, without guilt. And as such we should not try to effect someone else's self-worth.

Let us help each other, by first loving ourselves. And then from caring enough about ourselves to stand up for our own thoughts. Sometimes change is necessary, but can we do it an a way that reflects a gentle concern for the horses, rather then a judgment on others?

WE should not judge but try to recognize everything true and beautiful in other beings. We should let those that compete know that we value them above and beyond their value as a competitor that is winning or losing.

we need changes And as such we respectfully request that you add your voice to ours to let the FEI and all trainers and riders around the world know that we find this training method and these images hurtful to our own souls. We do not need a study of biomechanics or research technicians to tell us that this is not a way of training or riding that we find appealing.

If they want our support, if they want us to watch and to participate in this sport that they call dressage, perhaps they need to make some changes where we once again can celebrate the joy and harmony that can exist between horse and rider.

Let us together in the beauty of our souls create a new reality.

"I AM

I am spirit, I am consciousness, I am life, I am loveable and capable, I am worthy and valuable. I am one of nature's greatest miracles.

I am a unique and precious human being. No one in the universe is quite the same or has exactly the same impact on the world as myself. Even though my awareness may differ from others, my importance and worthiness are equal with all.

My loyalty is firstly to my true self and what is true for me. I have no need to worship others opinions or creeds. I stand up for my own thoughts and images. That way, I am consciously in charge of my own life. I can create for myself as I choose. I have inner strength, wisdom and compassion, sufficient to handle everything I will meet.

Knowing that my body and actions do not always reflect the spirit that is in me, I allow myself the freedom to make mistakes, to be wrong, to fail or be defeated and be less than perfect without feeling guilty or inferior.

I do not defer wealth, power or prestige. I can say "NO" even when I know it will displease others. I do not let others talk me into things against my better judgment. I do not deny my own needs or feelings to please other people.

I acknowledge my mistakes, for in the whole of my life, in every situation I have done and always will do the best I can, with what I know, have and the circumstances at the time. In giving up feelings of remorse, guilt or shame for any of my past actions, I now have loving feelings towards myself, for I am worthy and have every reason to have a good opinion if myself.

I refrain from judging or having expectations of others and I am free of resentment and bitterness. I allow ALL PEOPLE the right to their own unique awareness. I do not allow personal comparisons to effect my self worth, nor do I attempt to prove my worth by accomplishments, for my very existence proves my worth.

I am patient, kind and gentle with myself for I accept myself totally and unconditionally, I am OK. I acknowledge I can recognize everything true and beautiful in other beings, that means those qualities must also live in me.

I am the soul and I am an indestructible spiritual being."

Please add your voice to let everyone know that we want to renew a dressage that celebrates true harmony and gentleness between horse and rider.

Comments

Rollkur
Written by Chianti on 2006-06-01 21:50:10

I am sitting here crying from the pain I feel that these pictures of horses ridden in rollkur portray. I did not even manage to look at all the photos as the pain I feel is too overwhelming.
What has our beautiful sport of dressage come to??!!!??
The horses' eyes say it all. There is no need for proof, no need for research, just a look into the horses' souls is all you need to know that this is a fundamentally wrong approach to training. We are failing to fulfill our biggest responsibility in riding: to always put the horse's welfare first!
You will not see me watch nor support any international competition until the FEI has taken a clear stand on this issue. It is long overdue!
Simone
British Columbia, Canada

Ban Rollkur
Written by Cathy on 2006-06-02 03:03:12

Actually why should we even have to discuss banning it? Why would any sensible horse person decide that it's ok?
Cathy

Rollkur
Written by BridgetL on 2006-06-02 06:15:42

In the U.S., tail gingering, tail deadening and foot soring once were status quo. But people spoke up and now it is illegal. Let's do the same thing with rollkur.

Written by Funky MeerKAT on 2006-06-02 07:47:40

How can anyone look into the eyes of those horses and say that there is nothing wrong? They look trapped, caged, pained, angry... dead.

Rollkur
Written by hmarcantoni on 2006-06-02 08:06:09

FEI has failed to keep dressage in accordance with classical principles and dressage became some bad riding. It's time to stop to participate to this cruel absurdity.

Rollkur
Written by maverick on 2006-06-02 08:32:25

How can the FEI condone this training method that produces horses so far removed from the principles and guidelines set out in it's own rules?
How can people watch this & say it is OK for horses to be ridden this way? Where is the Harmony & Lightness in Rollkur? These are indeed dark days for the art of dressage.

Rollkur
Written by Alison on 2006-06-02 14:19:54

I find it impossible to comprehend that anyone could look at the pictures and videos of horses in the rollkur positions and think it could be OK to do that. I showed this to totally non-horsey people and they thought it was horrible. Just wait until animal rights people take it up as a cause. We may live to see dressage banned entirely if this is not stopped. Remember what happened to fox hunting. . . .

Rollkur
Written by nix on 2006-06-02 18:57:50

How can the FEI not ban what is no less than abuse? These horses are yanked into unnatural positions which without a doubt will cause muscular damage and compromise breathing. You only have to look at their dull, dead eyes to see that the horses' spirits are broken too. There is nothing harmonious or beautiful in this sort of "competition" training.

Written by planete on 2006-06-02 19:55:23

I look at these pictures and I do not see respect for the horse, I see an unflinching determination to force the horse to the will of the rider by any means. Even if it does no lasting physical damage (and it probably does), should not any rider be ashamed to use such rough riding to be successful? There is no partnership, no beauty and no art in this kind of riding and rewarding it is a crime against the horse.

Rollkur
Written by ray on 2006-06-02 19:57:10

Simply cruelty. There is no way around that. There can never be justifcation for cruelty. There can never be harmony with this outright cruelty, even with such a giving creature. These "riders'" should be prosecuted.
It's sadistic to enjoy harming these beautiful animals. Whats wrong with correct riding?
If the FEI will disaprove of this, more riders will learn to ride effectively, peacefully and the end result will be many much more beautiful pairs worth competing against. we can save the art as a sport yet!

Rollkur
Written by Lucia on 2006-06-02 20:50:08

Good Grief what can you say?
I fail to see the actual point of the practice of 'Rollkur', moreover the pictures show unhappy tense horses with riders forcing them into an unnatural and tense outline - hardly the picture of elegance and harmony dressage riders should surely be striving for? I cannot understand why this is still considered acceptable? Goodness knows the long term effects of this forced position on the horse, both physically and mentally. I am humbled that these horses are so generous as to be trying their best to do what is being asked of them. If this is what 'dressage' is about (it certainly wasn't when I began riding years ago!) I think I'll give it a miss tthankyou, and will continue to do my utmost to ride with consideration for my horses welfare whether it gets me placed or not...its not all about the ribbons as someone once said.

So sad.

Lucinda
Written by kharakterc on 2006-06-02 21:20:42

Do we really need to do "research" to know that Rollkeur is inhumane, injurious, and disrespectful to thebody and soul of the animal. Is that the result we want?
This is not beauty, partnership, or any quality I strive for in my dressage journey.
So terribly sad and wrong!

Ban Rolkur - now!
Written by Teddysmum on 2006-06-02 21:51:52

How can the FEI allow this practice? These pictures clearly show brutality, ugliness and cruelty. Hardly the image that dressage is expected to convey. These riders and the FEI should be utterly ashamed.

Stop the madness
Written by krosskopf on 2006-06-02 23:57:18

My heart aches for the horses that must endure life at the hands of these selfish riders. It is shameful that this is allowed anywhere near a sanctioned event or any event for that matter. We must speak for theses precious forgiving animals and stop the madness, now!

This is barbaric
Written by sueru on 2006-06-03 00:16:18

Anyone who knows anything about riding and horse biomechanics must know this is wrong, cruel and should be banned. The damage done to these horses' muscles and ligaments will be severe and permanent. This has NO place in equestrianism, let alone sport.

Speechless
Written by luvs2ride1979 on 2006-06-03 05:27:12

The horses all look hollow in the back and strung out behind. What saddens me is knowing that the JUDGES are who is making this problem worse. If judge would not be placing these horses who have fancy front end movement, but are lacking everywhere else, than this "training method" would not be popular or "effective". Very sad indeed!

Straight Jacket
Written by R. van Kralingen on 2006-06-03 07:19:05

Ashamed to live in Holland, 'Home of Rollkur' Why does the FEI keep changing the rules to accomodate this way of riding. Please lets get back to respect, balance and honest, classical rules.

straight jacket
Written by tricia osborne on 2006-06-03 08:21:00

My husband, who has never seen a photo nor heard of rolkur has just walked in while I was looking at the photos and has gasped in horror. He's not the least bit interested in any explanation as to why anyone would do this to an animal - it's just plain cruel. You don't need to know anything about horses or be any sort of expert to know this is not right. His view will be the view of every non-horse person out there.

straight jacket
Written by tricia osborne on 2006-06-03 08:21:12

No more reward for forceful riding!
Written by philippetemp on 2006-06-03 08:35:45

Rollkur is not a method of dressage, it's a mean to win awards. It's a matter of competition, not education; so, if judges begin to heavily underscore any sign of forceful riding, rollkur will disappear. Forbidding flash and crank nosebands, verifying the tightness of the chin strap and of the noseband before the test would make obvious any jaw abuse, and would be easy to set on.

In absolute disgust!!
Written by gypsycobfan on 2006-06-03 10:10:38

I am appauled to see that this is still being allowed, i have spoken with many freinds about this and a few of us ride dressage but would never ever put our horses through the pain that i see in these pictures! I see that the faces of the riders are blanked out, they should be show and named and shamed for doing such a barbaric practice, these people do not care for horses at all,they are all about the money they hope to gain, in each picture i see a horse straining its neck so much it looks as if its going to snap,also i can see many horses gasping for breath,how can the FEI allow this to happen,surely they can see the cruelty, if they do not then they should be banned and a new set of judges etc be installed,
BAN THIS NOW! FOREVER and any person seen to ride like this has no heart at all for themselves or their horses

Is winning really THAT important?!!
Written by Melinda on 2006-06-03 13:55:04

Those horses are crying. How can anyone not see that, especially the top level riders?

FEI, for heaven's sake, get some guts and do your job.

what has happened to dressage
Written by mbm on 2006-06-03 18:24:09

when the topriders use a method that is clearly abusive and ugly and that does not produce anything ressembling what dressage should be.

I am appalled that the FEI judges would reward these methods by overlooking clear imbalance, overtempo, lack of engagement etc.

If *i* can see these faults why cant the FEI judges? is the W\"WOW"factor so important that the FEI is willing to throw away the tenants of correct dressage?

Please start rewarding the horses that show clear collection and engagement.

Stop rewarding Rollkur and it will stop being used.

That is the most disgusting thing I have
Written by rebel rach on 2006-06-03 20:15:12

I am sitting at my computer feeling sick to the bone, how dare these 'top' RIDERS abuse their horses. Dressage is supposed to be beautiful, not forced and ugly like those pictures illustrate. Never have i seen a horse so forced, and in a way so confused and frightened.
WHY THE F**K are the FEI letting this happen. It makes me sick. Top competition riders are supposed to be role models. Enough inexpirienced idiots use it as it is, this is adding to the fire. Those horses undoubtedly are going to expirience pain, health, breathing problems. In my opinion any one who puts an animal under this much stress should be shot!!!

I am appauled that the FEI are acting like this and allowing it. If they were doing their job, they would wake up and look at the pain and stress these poor animals are put under.

For god's sake, it's good to ride on the bit, but definitely not behind it. This issue winds me up so much it makes me want to cry.

Those animals look overworked and sad. They look like they're crying. Dressage is giving itself a bad name by the FEI allowing this.

I would willingly take on any 'TOP GRAND PRIX' rider who uses this technique... for god's sake i would take on 'ANKY' if i'd had to.

SURELY EVERY ONE CAN SEE THIS NEEDS TO STOP, THESE ANIMALS ARE IN PAIN!!!

Stop the madness!
Written by perrykins on 2006-06-03 21:10:31

The pictures brought me to tears. FEI members, please stop the madness. Ban the use of Rollkur in competitions, on the showgrounds, in warm-ups--everywhere!! STOP REWARDING riders with high score marks--the end result DOES NOT justify the means. Do this: judge a show with your chin tucked onto your chest, and lift your eyes upward so you can try to see. Stay that way for an hour or two. Maybe then you can empathize with the horses!

Stop the cruelty
Written by cwimages on 2006-06-03 21:13:36

Please put a ban on this cruel and inhumane practice. USDF and USEF should be ashamed to allow it to happen in the warm up arenas of its shows.

it must stop
Written by rebel rach on 2006-06-03 22:04:59

this is so inhumane, and it gives dressage an awful name. it has to stop. these horses want to please their riders, and the riders want to abuse a beautiful trusting animal. i hate it and it really makes me want to cry.

How many more horses must be ridden like this???

What gives anyone the right to abuse an animal. like i said anyone who rides like that and advocates the use of Rollkur should be shot.

Alexis
Written by alexishaines on 2006-06-03 22:27:05

Words fail me. These noble creatures allow us the honour of sitting on their backs and this is how they are repaid?

This isn't warming up it is simply abuse.

What happened to the 'happy athlete'?

Alexis Haines

Now I Ride Western
Written by Victoriacummings on 2006-06-04 01:34:31

I rode English for 20 years. Then, I learned about a relaxed rein and a natural head-set. My two Quarter Horses are magically easy to ride - they feel almost no pressure on their mouths - I think what I want them to do, and they respond. Why would anyone want to abuse these wise, loyal companions in such a sadistic way? This is not a partnership - it is dominance - full of human ego and never considering what is best for the horse. How can anyone who loves horses consider this kind of treatment to be acceptable?
Victoria Cummings

Written by Funky MeerKAT on 2006-06-04 02:29:58

I always thought the point of dressage as a sport was to show where you are in your training and to get feedback for improvement. ie, you present to the judge and onlookers the way that you train your horse and how you are going.

But that is nolonger what happens, they train one way and show another. If their training is so good, why do they not show off what they can do in the ring? Why not make their own sport and be marked on what they are really doing?

Mind you the sport would very quickly be banned.

But the point is - they are hiding behind the rules and guidelines of dressage, those rules make dressage as a sport accepted, if the rules were changed to show what people are really doing, things would not be the same.

Hope that makes some sense, was hard to write what I meant and I don't know that I really did...

Disgrace ....
Written by Rhea on 2006-06-04 10:21:11

Surly this, what they call ‘Dressage’ puts too much strain on the horses muscles?
Then why do it? It’s causing these poor horses pain just for your own satisfaction!
These horses should not be allowed to be put though this! They should put a stop to this why they are ahead….

Heather
Written by Enlighteneduk on 2006-06-04 15:04:11

rolkur
Written by cherry on 2006-06-04 15:34:38

This is wrong. These people are being rewarded for cruelty to their horses. I understood dressage came about from exercises designed to stretch, loosen and work horses corectly. This is the antithesis of everything that dressage should stand for.

Dressage in the name of cruelty
Written by sandpiper on 2006-06-04 15:45:12

These pictures sadden and disgust me. Who was it that decided this training method was the way forward - can someone explain to me why it is necessary? I have never seen horses moving naturally in this position. These beautiful creatures put their trust in us, the rider, and the least we can do for them is treat them with respect. I don't see any respect in these pictures while the poor horse has nowhere to go..

Rollkur should be banned.
Written by becca3006 on 2006-06-04 19:23:13

Rollkur goes agaisnt everything equestrianism is about. A real equestrain would see that these pictures display nothing but pure cruelty.

when will the FEI wake up?
Written by rebel rach on 2006-06-04 21:15:07

when will they get off their backsides and stop advocating this practise...makes me sick...

Abomination
Written by ambatt on 2006-06-04 22:05:37

This practice is simply vile, it is cruel, it is inhumane and it is the antitheses of everything I strive for in creating a partnership with my horses. It ranks along side 'rapping' in the showjuming fraternity as equine abuse.
The FEI should outlaw this practice and inflict the severest penalties for those utilising this method.

Rollkur - Legal Cruelty
Written by chablis on 2006-06-05 03:30:13

Words cannot truly describe such deliberate cruelty towards animals.

Animals who cannot stand up for themselves or say 'No'. Animals who become robots through forced and then learned helplessness.

Those people should be ashamed of themselves for putting those poor animals through such suffering and for what?! A silly ribbon or is it the money...

They have made dressage into a war where once it was an art. The horse and rider moving in perfect harmony. Through Rollkur (or what's the 'legal' for cruelty now?), people have achieved a way to shut a horse's personality and joy of life.

I find it incredibly hard to believe that a user of Rollkur then had their horse called a 'Happy Athlete'. I didn't realise that knashing horse teeth and the flashing whites of a horse, under extreme stress, was consider a 'Happy'.

I don't know how these people can sleept at night...

As inhumane as it gets
Written by rowjames on 2006-06-05 10:41:15

Why would anyone WANT to reduce these noble and beautiful creatures to such a state?
Is there anything more pointless you can do to a horse?
Horses are athletes: They know how to move with grace and efficiency. Why cannot people learn how to ride without managing to ruin what nature has so miraculously provided?
Please, put a stop to this cruelty.

Dressage
Written by Smudge on 2006-06-05 11:11:51

The definition of Dressage according to the dictionary is:

The guiding of a horse through a series of complex maneuvers by slight movements of the rider's hands, legs, and weight.

This is bullying to cause submission resulting in pain for the horse. Its cruelty and it should not be allowed. How can anyone look at the strain on these horses faces and not be moved to outlaw this practise?

It disgusts me.

If the boot was on the other foot...
Written by mellymoo on 2006-06-05 12:37:28

Perhaps these riders should have their heads strapped down so they can't breathe and see where they're going, so that they get sore necks and backs.

Those horses look tortured. Dressage is supposed to be something of beauty, showing the partnership between human and horse - all those pictures show is human torturing and dominating horse.

Rollkur is cruel and unnesseccary -good riding will lead to a horse having a good outline and way of going. The riders who use Rollkur are evidently not fit to be on a horse. I count myself as a novice rider, but I can get my horse to go in an outline wearing a headcollar - he does it automatically because he is RIDDEN PROPERLY.

The FEI must stop this barbaric practice; it is surely a win-win situation if they do. The horses will be happier, and only the best riders will win - those who rely on cruelty and gadgets shouldn't be in the showring anyway, but if they stop getting placed (in fact they should be eliminated) they may think twice about the way they treat their horses.

I am truly disgusted that we in the Western world claim to love our animals, when this is what happens to them. Shame!!!!!

:'( I hate rollkur!
Written by h4nz horse mad on 2006-06-05 19:07:13

i hate it! absolutely hate it! you only have to look at the poor horses to see the pain in there eyes. lets strap the riders heads to their necks and make them work like that. no one would make a human do that would they! so why should we make these beautiful animals suffer. the FEI need to stop this! it surely must be torture! please stop it now... tears come to my eyes when i see the pain and helplessness in the horses eyes :'(

This is not dressage.
Written by More Carrots Please on 2006-06-05 20:45:48

Rollkur is abuse of the horse not a training method.
It's aim is to dominate and suppress the horses desires.
Judges should not reward this domination it is an example of a happy partnership.

Amendment to my post above
Written by More Carrots Please on 2006-06-05 20:47:01

Sorry typing not my best skill.

It is NOT!!!! an example of a happy partnership.

Arrogant control freaks
Written by kahiggins on 2006-06-06 03:14:12

In each and every photo the horses looks stressed and trapped. The eyes tell the story of pain and suffering. How can the horse possibly breathe, try it - put your chin on your chest and breathe, l am horrified these people should willigly inflict such cruelty on these beautiful horses. This surely is not dressage, where is the soft, flowing movement, the harmony between horse and rider. If this is the only way these people can control their horse then l suggest they give up riding altogether, it is not for them.
I feel so very sad, l have tears swelling up in my eyes.

The truth is in the eyes
Written by ise@ssl on 2006-06-06 04:31:32

It makes me ill to look at the eyes of these horses. They are glazed over and blank. How horrible that riders have taken the quest for ribbons to such extremes and have such a disconnect with the animal they use for this selfish quest.

We MUST stop this horrendous torture.

Written by CaffreyM on 2006-06-06 14:59:32

It's a long time since I have seen anything asdistressing as the pictures here.. my own horses are ridden and trained by classical riders who respect the spirit of the horse and never push them beyond their capabilities. If this is what it means to win dressage competitions, I want no part of it. I personally am going to write to each and every sponsor who supports a rider abusing horses in this fashion, to let them know that I will never be dealing with their company and products whilst this continues. Those who truly understand classical training would never subject a horse to such cruelty... there was a look of utter despair and hopelessness in those horses.... just what on earth are the FEI thinking to allow this.

Written by kirster2 on 2006-06-06 16:00:59

I am just utterly speechless. It brings me to tears to look at these horses faces and the pain that they are in. I could never do this to my horse. Just looking at the pictures I have a hard time breathing, just as I am sure those poor horses cant as well. This has to be stoped!

Written by kirster2 on 2006-06-06 16:02:07

This is not Dressage
Written by Tnavas on 2006-06-06 20:54:44

I am apalled that the top riders will use this forced and uncomfortable outline on their beautiful horses. What do they believe they achieve?

Each horse is showing it's discomfort in it's eye, they way the mouth is open and lips drawn back the tongue protruding. Where is the softness and harmony of true classical dressage - certainly not in these pictures.

FEI get yourselves sorted and do not let these riders dictate what is NOT Classical dressage - listen to the majority - we want ROLLKUR BANNED!

So Sad......this isn't Dressage
Written by Dark Secret on 2006-06-07 16:46:13

I can't believe that the FEI doesn't do anything about this, they need to get some balls and have a voice for the horses, it brings tears to my eyes to see the horses being ridden like this. What is this sport coming to?
Please BAN ROLLKUR .......

Barbaric Practice
Written by TJMoon on 2006-06-08 23:44:14

SHAME!!! STOP THIS EVIL!!!
Horses tortured all in the name of glory, blue ribbons and money. Big lick horses, the western pleasure peanut rollers, competitive dressage; they are all the SAME!!!
The judges of this sport should be rollkured themselves!!!! STOP rewarding this abominable riding!!!

Written by shoveltrash on 2006-06-10 01:04:32

The cruel use of whips & spurs are considered *illegal* in dressage warmup.....ROLLKUR should be too!!!!! it just makes me want to cry - the horses look tortured. not to mention the fact that it reduces a beautiful historic equestrian sport into a PARODY....
i agree with TJMoon, the JUDGES who reward this should be rollkured!!!!!

null

Equestrian Images, Dwain & Daniela
Written by Sanibelfan on 2006-06-10 01:12:04

First of all, in the name of equine photography, our utmost respect to capture such images. Images that need no words to describe the pain and suffering these horses must endure. We have taken countless photos of horses, none of which display the amount of sadness and distress that we see in these horses' eyes. In the name of humanity, let's put an end to this incredible abuse.

Written by Lammont on 2006-06-10 02:42:54

It took me four tries to get through all the photos, I couldn't really see through my tears. This is a travesty that MUST BE STOPPED.
If the FEI won't do it for all the obvious reasons, someone IS going to call the animal rights people and right now I am feeling that might not be such a bad thing.
The eyes of those poor horses makes my heart ache, and I really can't comprehend how they would not have that effect on everyone who views them. My sister - a nurse - looked at the colour of the horse's tongues and said it looked like the colour of "dead blood".
B]PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE STOP THIS NOW!!![/B]

Written by bkoelzer on 2006-06-10 03:12:26

This is a travesty and not in the true spirit of dressage. I cannot believe anyone who loves horses could believe rollkur is ok. As the other commentators have said -- all you need to do is look. The suffering is palpable. The FEI must prohibit rollkur. Now.

Please Take Action!
Written by 1 morejump on 2006-06-10 04:42:50

To whom it may concern At FEI Headquarters:

Please rethink your position on Rollkur. Right now the policy seems to be very "wishy washy". It is as though you are trying to please everyone with your answer. Stating that Rollkur is okay when used by professionals is very middle of the road. We need to be thinking about the horses!

I don't care how many mainstream riders you endorse. There comes a time when we have to say, enough! A horse would never willingly move like this for any extended period of time. There is no suppleness, yielding, or sense of partnership. All I can see are riders trying to over flex because they believe that it will make the horses more supple. It is plain out abuse! I don't care how professional you are, abuse is still abuse.

Please, Sir or Madam, take action, not for the people, or riders, but for the horses, the heart and soul of the sport. Dressage should be beauty in motion and nothing forced is ever beautiful, all rollkur is force. Please help us to fix this problem, for their sake, they have no voice.

Written by TLCM on 2006-06-10 14:16:49

I am sickened and disgusted that the FEI, as an official sports organization founded to protect the sport and the participants both human and equine, would allow and even sanction the use of such training methods. The horses deserve better.

Rollkur Is Unconscionable
Written by indymom on 2006-06-10 15:58:16

I can truly say that words fail me. I was in tears looking at the pictures of those tortured horses.

This is NOT Dressage. Classical Dressage is supposed to be beneficial for the horses. It is supposed to produce relaxed, happy athletes with muscles properly developed for carrying their riders. That is the reason - the ONLY reason - I have been involved with it for the past 20+ years.

Rollkur is not only inexcusable cruelty, it is an insult to the true spirit of Dressage. It is revolting. It is winning at any cost before Judges who should hang their heads in shame at their ignorance and their willingness to award high marks to torture.

The FEI must be called to account for its miserable failure in its stated mission to protect the horses.

Shame on you
Written by pauline on 2006-06-10 17:42:52

...and these riders travel around the country purporting to tell others how to ride!!

Shame on them and shame on the FEI for saying nothing

Dr.; Medical and Veterinary
Written by raptor on 2006-06-10 18:25:50

I too hurt for these beautiful GIFTS.
given to us to CARE FOR and TRAIN! NO horse should be made to put up
with such abuses by so called "horsemen" (I feel they should
be banned from the arena-forever)
The fact that these people are supposedly the "highest talent in the
world" sickens me. They are no
better than the spoild child that loses
a class for lack of work and talent and
beats the horse! Judges all over the
world should refuse to allow these "riders" access to the arena.
what a horrid message this sends to
new people to the sport as well as
TRUE HORSEMEN that are placed lower
not to mention people that watch
Dressage with no previous knowledge, and see this abhorant
"practice"
There is no excuse.
Raptor

Written by intouch on 2006-06-10 21:06:42

I became a riding instructor 40 years ago "to make life better for the horse". I have taught probably hundreds of children and nervous beginners to ride, always insisting on compassion and consideration for the horse before anything else. Sometimes I felt I could have done more, aimed higher. Now I am glad, when I see some of my pupils progress beyond my abilities, that their early teaching influences their attitude. I can be proud of them, and of my committment to these principles. I feel sad when I see these riders who put appearance before ability.

Let the Horses Speak
Written by JBJ on 2006-06-10 23:26:19

Rollkur is cruel, sad, and downright disgusting . These so called "riders" don't deserve their "good" reputation! Especially the "riders" who make it to the Olympics! And now the judges are starting to accept it! It is horrid! What will the horse world be like in 5 years? It will be sad, unless something is done for the horses . I know one thing: I won't ride my horse like those so called "riders" just for a $0.10 ribbon and a "reputation"! Maybe one-day we will be able to stop this horrible cruelty to our such majestic friends, our horses.

HORRIBLE!
Written by jdolan on 2006-06-11 00:37:05

Have these pictures been sent to the riders of these horses? How can there be any debate over such an abusive practice? Anatomically, I do not understand how the horse can breathe adequately. Maybe we need to tie these riders' necks down to their chests and have them ride their horses in a similar position that they force upon their mounts. FEI---where are you?

DISGUSTING
Written by lil foxy roxy on 2006-06-11 13:07:29

I couldn't look at all those pictures, they made me feel SICK!
those poor poor horses!
those riders call themselves "top riders"!?!?!?! "top idiots" more like.

how can judges just let them get away with it? horses can't be forced into those positions! i can only imagine how much it must hurt their necks and they will be stuck with it

Why???
Written by patkempe@btinternet.com on 2006-06-12 08:46:57

I feel myself crying WHY should these horses be forced into this outline. WHY??

Where is their nobility, pride and friendship? Certainly not shon in these pictures of torment.

I am in tears
Written by dvnEquine on 2006-06-13 01:51:26

How could anyone think that this is "just another training method"??? Perhaps the stretch itself is not horrifying enough, but the pulling of the head to the chest - the waterskiing on the reins (you have only to look at their legs and knees to know that those riders are HAULING on those reins), the spurring as the head is held in tight.

The FEI must STOP this. It is nothing but a gross caricature of dressage.

Apalling!
Written by tollertwins on 2006-06-13 02:11:30

Seeing so MANY horses ridden this way was a total shock!
I have a trainer who is also an FEI judge. I have seen her do this type of riding exactly once - when the horse she was riding for it's owner was basically trying to hurt her. She only did it long enough for the horse to start behaving - and she DIDN"T switch gaits, work on bend or anything - just on getting the horse to behave. Also told the owner that it was NOT something to do. I had assumed from this that the discussions about Rolkur may have been something that was done on recalcitrant horses - NOT something done as a standard warm-up.

vile abomination of the sport
Written by looby on 2006-06-13 14:26:41

It is with mixed horror and admiration that I read the June issue of Horses For LIfe. Horror at the images and articles contained within, but admiration for the editing team and their contributors. It takes great courage to stand up and disagree with convention and I for one am overjoyed and proud that there are still people in the equestrian world with that courage and strength to say out loud when something is wrong. And oh is this wrong! The practice of Rollkur is so far removed from the principles of dressage and horse training, and yet it had become the accepted norm among winning riders and trainers. To dismiss the classicists as out of date and irrelevant is short sighted and arrogant. While resorting to heavy handed domination of their horses displays a lack of character and an inhumane disregard for their honest and willing equine parnters in the sport. We should all be speaking out, loudly and repeatedly, against this barbaric training method to get it regarded with the same disgust and damnation as other forms of animal cruelty. It ranks for me with bear baiting, cock fighting, dog fighting, the list goes on. It is a sick and selfish world that sees the pain and suffering of an animal as an acceptable means to winning prizes. If this is dressage, I shall confine myself to just hacking out forever more. Congratulations on your wonderful magazine, and thank you for your courage, Lucinda Evans

vile abomination of the sport
Written by looby on 2006-06-13 14:26:44

Who is the FEI trying to please with thi
Written by veepee on 2006-06-14 13:30:03

The FEI does not have the power to stop this horrible way of riding horses in warm up areas at competition....yet...until rules are put in place to eliminate this horrible way of riding in them. Until then, it is up to the judges of dressage competition horses to ensure that their judging follows closely the FEI guidelines of correct frame or outline being shown by horses being able to work in self-carriage with poll high and nose in front of vertical, with mouths closed - as per official FEI rulings [if these are still relevant guidelines for judges in the FEI rule book? - and if not, why not?]. This is not about perfection…but about riding horses in the way that they are meant to be naturally using themselves.

The crux of the issue
Written by Ann on 2006-06-14 15:34:05

The bottom line to rollkur - and all abusive training techniques in all equine disciplines - is that somehow, for some reason, the physical expression of tension and anxiety in the horse has become more than accepted - it has become the standard. Riders, trainers, and even judges have become unable to see the tension and anxiety that underlies the extravagant movement it causes. Fluid harmonious motion is not as flamboyant as that caused by tension/anxiety. If we don't reverse this trend now, the day will come when there are no longer riders or trainers who are able see the beauty of harmony and tranquility within the performing horse.
Ann Bradley

Ghastly
Written by Jane on 2006-06-15 23:47:33

Rollkur is ghastly. Look at the dead eyes of the horses on whom it is used to verify they know it too.

Please investigate and end this attack on honorable sequential training.

Abuse of body and soul
Written by Janna on 2006-06-19 09:38:07

Dressage is meant to show the pride, grace and elegance of a horse.
Well trained, happy and sound.

These horses have in no way at all, anything to do with that.

Incorrect
Written by bseizert on 2006-06-19 23:59:50

Not only are these methods obviously cruel and insensitive to the horses, they go against several of the most basic and important aspects of dressage: harmony, balance, impulsion, engagement, and self-carriage. No one can claim to be a "top rider" while disregarding these most important characteristics of dressage.

BAN ROLKUR
Written by sallison627 on 2006-06-23 00:25:58

I am sick to my stomach after viewing those photos. The object of dressage should be the harmoniousphysical development and ability of the horse. This technique is horrifying!
Shame on the FEI for rewarding top riders who use this technique. Many of these photos were obviously taken in the warm-up arena for all to see. (judges as well) It's time to ban this from our sport and penalize all riders/trainers who are seen using it!

Please stop this ugly horror!
Written by lil on 2006-06-23 01:03:07

FEI,
Please take a GOOD look at this practice. Ban it and its practitioners
from the ring and the whole of what I once thought a lovely riding technique, that honored both horse and rider.

Set a good example
Written by carol ann on 2006-06-23 02:02:38

Young riders who look up to the international competitors as an example of the best in dressage are being sent a dangerous message. How are young riders to learn true dressage when this is the sorry example that is presented to them? Let's quit makeing excuses , and glossing over the true nature of this horror. The FEI is loseing it's credibility by sanctioning such an obvious act of brutality.

Shed A Tear !
Written by maddie on 2006-06-28 13:27:23

It is with sadness that I find myself looking at a method of training that has been condoned by the FEI.
I can only conclude that none of the panel of the FEI have had the wonderfull and humbling experience of a horse truelly offering them balance,lightness and suppleness ,WILLINGLY, and the sheer joy and tears of happiness it brings knowing what it feels like to have a willing and happy partner to dance with.
Never can force and demanding produce beauty and harmony , never can pain and domination produce a willing partnership.Just because these amazing animals still allow these riders on their backs whilst being told to perform these unnatural movements , is a testament to the horses generosity not to the riders skill or training.
I will endevour from this moment on to find out who are the sponsors of these riders and make sure myself and all I know boycot their products until the FEI stop pandering to the over inflated ego's of these riders and start caring about the true athelete, the horse!

Ewww
Written by BurnxInxSilence on 2006-06-28 14:18:57

I've never understood why the FEI allows this. It's ugly, painful and not what dressage is about.

How can you not see the looks of pain in those horses eyes? You try tucking your chin all the way to your chest then run around doing adanced movents. Honestly try it and see how you feel. That's exatly what those horses are feeling.

Rollkur
Written by sandy on 2006-06-29 05:44:40

As for " Hyperflexion" techniques in training (Rollkur) I quote Commandant Rousselet,Cadre Noir,Saumur,about 1815 :

" It is easier to use power than knowledge "

" The Art of Schooling was better,more widely understood and more honorable than it is today "

Rollkur will disappear when the audience stops watching Grand Prix Dressage.
Sandy Dunlop.

Please stop this abomination
Written by chrissy on 2006-07-04 07:22:52

Why do we treat these wonderful animals like this? What have they done to deserve this treatment? They have made it possible for human beings to practise self aggrandisement at the cost of their own comfort. Isn't it about time things changed, and for the better?

We can change it - don't wait for the F
Written by lis hollander on 2006-07-07 07:14:10

It is a sad fact of life that money and personal ambition drive some people to do things that others find totally unacceptable. What we see in public is only half the story. What goes on (and has been for many years now) behind the scenes is far, far worse. It is not just the dressage scene either. And it is not just Rollkur. If we all really believe that a professional rider is using "training" techniques that are unacceptable then we should vote with our feet and hit them where it hurts most - their wallets and public standing. Do not buy their merchandise, video's and books. Do not attend their clinics. If they have sponsorship make sure that you do not support those brands either. If they are competing turn away and do not watch. However be very very sure of the facts before you point your finger at any one individual. Finally there are some wonderful, caring riders on the professional circuit who put the welfare of their animals before anything else. Support these riders and praise their efforts publically because sadly their road may not bring them glory or money but they will have our respect.

Written by caron arnott on 2006-07-11 08:36:33

not every human is a caring ,spiritual ,person that wants to live in harmony with nature.thats why we have been so successful as a species.the fact that humans compete with each other in lots of ways ,be it dressage ,football ,olympics speaks volumes and the drive to win at all costs in some people to fulfill themselves as human beings i find sad but it is something we all fight at some point and at some time in our lives.if people want to watch this kind of thing and it doesnt turn their stomach then i fear they are of the same ilk as the people riding and dont feel the horses pain.
it makes you feel ashamed to be human sometimes

Written by katefarmer on 2006-07-11 12:17:12

Echoing all the other comments. This must be stopped. It's against everything the FEI claims to stand for. If they can't take a stand on something that is so obviously abusive, perhaps it's time for the FEI to be replaced!

Written by Panda on 2006-07-13 08:40:08

StopRollkur!

Rollkur
Written by Goldstern on 2006-07-26 14:06:21

We all have the same feelings about rollkur and if enough people speak up maybe something will be done about it.

Also, we need to show that there *is*another way, that...

The only good is knowledge and the only evil ignorance. - Socrates

Knowing others is wisdom; knowing the self is enlightenment. Mastering others requires force; mastering the self needs strength. - Lao Tsu

In nature there are no rewards or punishments; there are just consequences.

Violence is the last refuge of the incompetent. - Isaac Asimov

MENE MEME TEKEL UPHARSIN

rollkur
Written by strider on 2006-07-31 22:45:18

there is nothing i can say that hasnt already been said but i stil lwant to say that this practice is disgusting, sad, inhumane, appallling, unessecary and abusive. it needs to stop. it needs to NOT be rewarded by judges. what can we do to highlight the need to oppose it?

Rollkur
Written by capella on 2006-08-01 10:20:02

Is dressage an art or a sport? Let's define why we are doing this and who we are playing with. Isn't the horse an amazing, a fantastic and wonderful friend who does incedible things together with us?

Why abuse them? Why make them do things when the only thing you need to do is ask them?

As someone said a long time ago, "where knowledge ends violence starts".

/Tina

Roll (kur?)
Written by Maxwell on 2006-08-01 17:11:00

First you buy a lovely, expensive horse.
Second, due to lack of riding skills, you buy a mechanical device to compensate for your lack of skills.
Third, you torture your horse with the mechanical device (rollkur), turning his tongue blue, making him go behind the bit, and scrunching his frame due to the pain in his muscles.
Fourth, you call yourself a rider!

Congratulations! You win the Blue Ribbon for Cruelty to Animals and the Worst Rider award!

Roll (kur?)
Written by Maxwell on 2006-08-01 17:18:25

UGLY
Written by pippabear on 2006-08-02 07:00:08

This is UGLY

Anything forced or misunderstood, can never be beautiful."

Xenophon

enough said

Horror
Written by WarHorseArt on 2006-08-02 07:16:44

This is just mind boggling to me. Pure and simply abuse. This goes beyond competion, it is just cruelty. Plain and simple. And I thought Dressage was ballet with your horse, becoming one with each other. I bet these horses quiver when they see a handler coming to tack them up. It breaks my heart that these poor horses were born into a life of torture. What is the point of having the FEI if this is allowed and rewarded!!!

If this is dressage, count me out.
Written by Janemarie on 2006-08-02 13:45:49

I just signed up for Horses for Life, and was not aware of the controversy surrounding Rollkur. I went to the photo essay you presented a few months back. I have to say, it was upsetting to see those photos. The horses looked unhappy, unable to see, and stressed in the jaw and unable to evade a tight curb chain. None of those riders looked to me like people who deserved to be riding in a double bridle. The eerie part of this is that clearly these were upper level riders and beautiful and beautifully turned out horses. Everything about the pictures screamed INCORRECT. I was always taught that behind the vertical is as wrong as above the vertical, and much less natural for the horse. I took my time over each photo in the photo essay. It was not beautiful to behold and the energy did not seem in balance. It made me very sad. If this is the future of dressage, I am not interested. I say this as a person who has ridden dressage all my life and considers it an art form I work hard to participate in. I hope some international level trainers will step up and put a stop to this unaesthetic and unkind trend before it catches on as the latest fad.

Rolkur - GET RID OF IT!!
Written by gallopingbunny on 2006-08-13 12:42:08

I have thought of entering my super moving horse into Dressage competitions,with the idea that I would allow a top rider to show him off . But after seeing this, there is NO WAY that I am going to pay ANY FEES to the FEI. Their ruling is absolutely disgusting - WE HAVE TO STOP IT NOW!
The pain these horses are enduring is horrible and they try their best to please us. We had better look at how Pat and Linda Parelli have received results from their horses without all of this artificial crap going on!

Where is the art that dressage represents?

Where did it all go wrong?
Written by Midgaard on 2006-08-17 10:09:23

I am not a perfect rider, but I strive to become the best possible rider for my horses sake and comfort.

I have trouble understanding what can possibly justify riding your companion in such a fashion.

Glory, Money, Fame?

There is nothing glorious about this....
Only agony and pain.

PLEASE MAKE IT STOP!

Yours Sincerely,
Ms. Inger Liv Midgaard Oroe
NORWAY

This is not Classical Dressage
Written by Victory on 2006-08-23 06:11:56

The old masters of Dressage would be horrified to see the horses of today and the training methods some use to get fame Horses are noble creatures and deserve to be treated as such with correct riding. Only the FEI judges can stop this cruelty.

Written by mvanaalst on 2006-08-30 12:51:48

How can the possibly make someone a world champion when they ride there horses like this? FEI are you sleeping? Why are there rules if no one is checking them?
Please do something about this horse cruelty!

MvanAalst
The Netherlands

Barbarians
Written by tizer on 2006-09-02 12:44:52

Nothing more nothing less, anyone top rider or otherwise looking at those images could not fail to see the pain, how can a feeling human inflict such agony. THIS MUST BE BANNED NOW.
For all lovers of horses in which ever sphere let your voice be heard.

Riders ???
Written by sawsene on 2006-09-08 07:41:13

How can it be possible to call them "our great riders" ? they are not, definitely. Those poor horses are not trotting, there's no piaffe, no passage, nothing nice, no softness. the worst is that in this film we can recognise the winners of all those grand prix and else. My god, did somebody show them the eyes of their poor horses, the legs far behind in the trot..... and FEI is talking about happiness of the equine athlet ? everybody must write against that to try to change the world of dressage.

Written by maygar on 2006-10-05 18:20:49

Why is it not the FEI appling its own rules? ..Any practices wich could cause physical or mental suffering, in or out of competition, will not be tolerated?, or...Horses must not be subjected to any training methods wich are abusive or cause fear?. This is not the sport that we fell in love with for so many generations, this is becoming the game of politics by some people who can not even be call riders, because to be called a rider you have to begin on loving the horse who is your partner, and care for it.My proposal is to get then out of the arena as soon as possible. Maria

the more I look....the ungrier I get....
Written by maygar on 2006-10-05 18:37:25

And by the way, were the hell were those judges?why couldn't they just have a walk and check the warm ups?. I was sitting in front of my TV and I keep asking why was it that the horses came into the arena so very full of sweat and saliva down to their chest. I mean if was in off to awake my curiosity, why not the judges? Are they dumb, or just uninterested?, Or...maybe they don't give a ....
I mean one thing is a warm up..another is to work the horse to exhaustion before compiting,right?

been around forever
Written by astrosilver on 2006-10-09 19:25:44

Horses being schooled as the pictures show has been around forever. You see it in the western world of pleasure horses, cutting and reining (the so called event that many thinks is "western version of dressage---the horses don't even trot), in the hunt seat world of, jumping, dressage and yes even in casual riding. I can't remember a time when a person hasn't seen someone ride a horse like this. It is NOT new. Yes it is ugly. and not pretty and probably not the best thing to do all the time. I think at times and VERY few times, it might be useful as stated in an earlier post when a trainer got on a horse to get it to behave and then was able to ride in a more "correct" fashion. I know i am going to get killed for the above comments and that is ok. But please don't think the rollkur is a new training idea. It is not. with the age of computers, internet, digital cameras it has allowed the world to see more of what is really out there. We can use such discussions to educate ourselves and remember that not every rider out there is capable of riding a horse in such a "frame". It is very difficult. most horses will blow up and not accept such a frame. I don't blame them. But banning a training technique------good luck. they will use it at home and figure out a different way to ride at the show. you are kidding yourselves to think otherwise.

Absolutely appalling!
Written by elaine on 2006-11-14 21:14:02

Hideous, cruel and ugly! How on earth has this become acceptable? The inaction of FEI clearly indicates that legislation is required to prevent such blatant abuse and cruelty.

Zero tolerance
Written by neal on 2006-11-27 10:40:30

We must start to organise ourselves. The responsibility lies with us, the good hearted. Not the bullies, who will remain with the upper hand until we get our selves together and make a noise.

I am starting with the highest profile of all and I WILL win. I have a petition that calls for the use of the whip in Racing to be stopped.

Please help by spreading this URL and keep fighting on all fronts for what is good and true. Viva the revolution!

www.webpetitions.com/cgi-bin/print_petition.cgi?99500830

Write letters, get motivated!

We are the only voice the horse has in cruel world.

This is NOT dressage!
Written by eaf on 2007-06-13 00:54:39

If the judges weren't awarding high scores for this, it wouldn't go on. They are discrediting the art, and ruining it for generations to come. This must be put to an end before it's too late!

If FEI doesn't show any more integrity than this, perhaps true classical dressage needs another governing body under which to practice.

I feel ashamed
Written by patsy07 on 2007-07-05 15:50:33

I feel ashamed and disgusted at the sight of these horses being trained. How can top riders feel that this is acceptable. If my instructor suggested I adopt such a method on my horses, I would change my instructor.
Do these riders really think that the end result can justify the cruel means that they have used to get there.
How can the FEI allow this to continue.
Every person that says nothing is saying that this is ok when it clearly is not and can only be described as cruelty beyond belief.
It made me want to cry for these kind, noble and gentle animals

Written by philip on 2007-07-11 12:32:29

almost every latest scientific research showed positive results concerning rollkur,as well on kinematics,physiologics,as on stress level.These are objective results in contrary to lots op subjective thoughts or feelings...top riders have been riding like this for decades;it s not something that popped up the last 5 years...

So called HYPER FLEXION !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Written by Samantha Acres on 2007-07-28 15:50:12

...and these are the super 'EXPERT HANDS' that the FEI talk about ?????
Until SOMEBODY at the FEI is brave enough to put up their hands and says STOP ...this atrocious way of schooling our noble friends will continue.
It really does come down to the judges to deduct a point off each movement for tightness in the neck, swishing tails, grinding teeth, legs strung out the back etc...
THE JUDGES ARE RESPONSIBLE AND MUST CHANGE THIS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Abnormal anatomics
Written by Biddy on 2007-08-07 10:40:53

In all olympic sports - which are the highest level of all sports - there has been ways to short and spectacular success sought by those who can not or do not want to keep to true ideoligies.
Olympics - the sport show for the Gods!
To accept this kind of horse abuse is worse than letting steriods and other kind of doping be legalised in other olympic sports. Why is it that we allow this to the horse? Is it because he can not speak up for himself?

At least some of us now will try to keep to the "true" path. The more we are - the more we compete - the more we judge - the greater an impact we can make.

But NEVER belive that there will be an impact merely by printing words like these.... We have to proove ourselves!!

terrible
Written by zippy_k on 2007-10-03 22:32:29

Just returned from Flyinge Int dressage comp, unfortunately judges seem to like wound up horses, overbent, anxious over calm, happy cadenced ones, the audience were discerning but why couldnt the judges be? iron hands, fretting mouths, tight necks and people who ride horses not for the love and harmony but clearly a ruthless desire to win flashy events. It was really distressing. The heart and generosity of those big warmbloods suffering, a thoroughbred would kill them for their bullying ways. I agree the JUDGES have to reject this! Look at the overall way the horse works!!! Bouncing along, bent necks got more points than horses collected happy and moving well!
I couldnt contain myself and little nobody person that I may be in grand prix land I told the Dutch and Danish riders entourage and one of their trainers their riding was appalling and people out there know it!

Written by zippy_k on 2007-10-03 22:39:11

and it is such a joy to find this petition and to find people who are fighting against this disgusting trend. It Is NOT dressage - it is an abomination

buy a t-shirt to protest
Written by zippy_k on 2007-10-06 18:49:03

Just bought a T-shirt that states loud and clear NO to rollkur, from this website via cafe express. Everyone should be wearing them at horse events! I wish I had mine the day I saw those danish adn dutch riders and I was standing right next to them!

Shame to FEI
Written by Anette on 2007-11-18 13:09:58

Shame to the FEI for not forbidding roll kur and for allowing riders using this socalled method to participate in competition. Ans we even see a Dutch world champion on thes photos. When wil the FEI take actions????

FEI
Written by debbies on 2007-12-12 07:36:18

Stop, the paine for the horses is not okey
They cant't breading, in the eyes from the horses can you see the paine.

Commercialized, Desensitized, Demoralize
Written by jdawg on 2008-01-04 14:59:25

Welcome to FEI. Anyone watching the 2006 Achen World Eq. Games knows that that is exactly what has happened to International dressage. When Anky can ride a horrible test and get a 75% while several others can be nearly flawless and come in behind. Andres Helgstrand was the best test I've seen in years on Matine and he barely edged her out with a 76%...are you kidding? Someone's getting paid off. It's a mockery of the sport and a slap in the face to the legends: George Theodescrue (sp?), Alvin Moore, Isaac Kits, Reiner Klimke, Christian Carde, and others who classically and methodically trained their horses correctly. Very few dutch horses are truely through. Most ride scared and guess or are stretching out to catch their breath. Most have arthritis in their necks. I ask this...Bonfire and Anky were fabulous. All of a sudden she gets surrounded by commercializim a couple new horses. Then the controlling Sef comes in and error after error after error in her tests happen and she still wins with high scores????
Rollkur becomes standard in Dutch training and is spreading because it's a quick fix. The animal is no longer the concern. They don't need to breath right? Arthritis isn't a concern right? Break them down so you can control them right? The sport is no longer pure and classical. Let's face it, FEI dressage is starting to make reining and rodeo's look appealing. Dressage used to be the French word for training, now it's the dutch word for cruelty, quick fix, and commercialized monopoly.

disgusting!!
Written by gem on 2008-03-10 16:32:13

It would be possible to stop this practice simply by having the judges stop rewarding these disgusting displays! If they no longer won, they would stop using these methods to produce tight, stressed, poor moving and emotionally wrecked horses! As long as they keep winning, they will keep doing it and others will follow.
It saddens me how much abuse of the horse is tolerated. Over use of whips, harsh hands, kicking and incorrect use of spurs aswell as the abomination that is rollkur. If this were done to any other animal in full view of other people the perpetraitor would be very quickly arrested! When I was first learning to ride I was told to imagine that my reins were attatched only by a single strand of horse hair that I was under no circumstances allowed to break it! If that were the case with most of these riders I would think that not only would the hair break, they would fall off backwards through the sheer strength with which they are pulling back! Come on FEI! Do your job and do what is right for the horse! Stop rewarding these hidious tests with high scores and reward correct training. And if your judges are unable to distinguish between the two, sack them and enlist new ones!!!!

Rolkur
Written by MyNutmeg on 2008-03-19 19:29:27

How can anyone watch a horse being ridden using rolkur and not understand that it is cruelty, plain and simple.
The horse cannot see where it is going and this practice cause long term damage to the horse's muscular and skeletal structures.
I think the most telling thing is the way the horse reacts - when ridden in rolkur the horse's mouth hangs open as it tries to evade the bit (that is unless it is being ridden in a crank noseband and has no choice) and the tail is constantly going round and swishing. I have always been taught that one of the fundamental aims of dressage is to get a horse that accepts the bit and aids - the swishing of the tail is a sign of resistance and should be marked down yet go on youtube and there are countless vidoes of horses winning major dressage competitions with their tail going non-stop. How else is the horse supposed to express their pain and discomfort - but the judges simply don't listen!
I have now seen many comments on forums saying that dressage in general is cruel and that it is something they would never do. This is coming about because rolkur is accepted and being used at the top levels of dressage and the FEI are doing nothing about this. This needs to be banned for the sake of the horses and the sake of the sport otherwise people who are more concerned with the horses welfare are going to leave dressage and the sport as a whole will suffer badly. Not only does it need to be banned but the judges need to penalise the riders who use this by penalising the signs of resistance that the horses use to ask us to stop this practice.
Dressage should be about a harmonious partnership between a sympathetic and careful rider and an intelligent athelet not about dominating and forcing a horse to perform! The horse should enjoy it as much as the rider does. I would like to put these riders into a comparable situation and see what they think about being so completly over stretched for long periods of time whilst carrying weight.
The FEI needs to do it's job - protect both the horses and the sports reputation by banning this barabric practice otherwise all the sane riders will leave and the sport will collapse.

Dutch disgrace.
Written by ponytails on 2008-05-01 19:21:54

Please F.E.I. stop sitting on the fence , a total BAN is the only way to stop this abuse.
I feel sick to the stomach when I see the deadness in the horses eyes.People who use rollkur don't love or respect horses ,they love their bank accounts and the ribbons .

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Horses For LIFE Online Magazine June 2006 Edition #10

June 2006 • Volume 10

HORSES FOR LIFE™
Published Monthly

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