A video circulated showing British equestrian star Charlotte Dujardin disciplining her horse with a long whip during a coaching session at a private stables. The incident has prompted animal rights group Peta, to urge for the removal of equestrian events from Olympic Games.
A 39-year-old former competitor in dressage's individual and team events, Dujardin was disqualified from representing Great Britain at Paris 2024 due to this incident. She had been suspended four years prior. Peta’s US senior vice president, Kathy Guillermo, argued the footage reflects a broader trend of animal mistreatment and called for action by International Olympic Committee (IOC).
“The IOC must take notice,” said Guillermo. “Horses are not meant to be subjected to such training techniques solely for personal achievements, especially when the same sport has long been scrutinised due to its potential harm on animals.”
Meanwhile, Brooke, a horse welfare charity that Dujardin previously served as an ambassador for, expressed their disappointment over her actions. They believe in treating horses with kindness and compassion, hence the video incident is highly condemned.
Modern pentathlon has decided to remove its equestrian component from future games due to criticism following similar incidents at Tokyo 2021 Olympics. After watching a distressing performance by German competitor Annika Schleu in the showjumping segment, German coach Kim Raisner was penalised and asked for an overhaul of training methods during that event.
Dujardin acknowledged her mistake, admitting she "could not justify" her actions towards the horse, saying it does not represent how she trains or mentors young riders in general. She expressed regret to Team GB supporters, fans and sponsors for letting them down.
Stephan Wensing, representing a British 19-year-old complainant against Dujardin, was thankful that the FEI took strong measures regarding this issue. He also highlighted the severity of the incident, expressing his discomfort at witnessing such actions during a sport event.
The FEI confirmed their disappointment and vowed to uphold equine welfare as they approach Paris 2024 games. The British Olympic Association (BOA) stated that they'll apply for late replacement of Dujardin under IOC rules, with the UK's equestrian team potentially being represented by Becky Moody and her horse Jagerbomb instead.
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