ROLEX CCI 3 Day Event and Related Equestrian Accidents?

Question

It seems to me that many of these accidents are unfortunately as a result of unnecessary excessive speed upon approaching jumps. i as well have wondered if perhaps riders are honestly Not as experienced as we once were? perhaps the levels need to be reviewed? many notable competent riders whom competed in years gone by grew up riding in the great outdoors amidst natural settings confronted by unmanaged obstacles, as opposed to the controlled comfort of manicured indoor rings. perhaps, liability and the fear of such has impeded development of these equestrians?

of course accidents will happen but is raising the bar on jumps really proof of an individuals mastery of the art of riding? perhaps we're rushing the young riders too fast and placing unrealistic demands on these beautiful animals? in any event my sincerest condolences to all whom have been touched by these unfortunate tragedies.

Answer 1

i agree to a point. i think that riders do need to train on these terrains, but an accident can happen to anyone out there. i have had my worst accidents honestly on the flat due to a clumsy horse. a rider cannot make their horse pick up their foot half and inch higher. i think that we are seeing more accidents because the jumps are higher and the horses are more challenged then in earlier days. the rider should know the horse well enough by the day of competition if they are riding in the rolex to know what the horse can handle for speed going up to a jump. sometimes they get setup wrong too. i mean that purse would make anyone want to take shortcuts and push the horse harder.