Multiple eliminations at dressage championships for incorrectly fitted bits

dressage bits elimination Hartpury winter dressage championships — Library image.

(Image credit: LUCY MERRELL)

Riders are reminded to check – and double-check – their tack after a raft of competitors were eliminated for having their horses’ bits on incorrectly at the Winter Dressage Championships.

By Saturday (22 April) evening, seven competitors at Hartpury for the NAF Five Star Winter Dressage Championships and Petplan Equine Area Festival finals had been eliminated.

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Lucy is an experienced news journalist, reporter and presenter. Since joining the Horse & Hound team in 2015, Lucy has reported from major global sporting events including the Tokyo Paralympic Games and multiple European Championships, as well as Badminton, Burghley and London, to name a few. She has covered current affairs and sports news across the full spectrum of equestrian disciplines and racing, as well as human and equine welfare, industry news and court cases.

At least seven competitors eliminated at championships for incorrectly fitted bits

The bit in question, the Sprenger Ultra Loose Ring, is dressage-legal. But for those unlucky seven, they competed with the bit attached to the bridle in the wrong way.

The manufacturer’s guidelines state that Sprenger bits that are marked with an arrow at the side of the mouthpiece have to be positioned correctly in the horse’s mouth, and this arrow has to point forwards on the left-hand side.

“It is, however, vitally important that the competition is fair and equal for all combinations – and to achieve this all riders need to comply with the tack and equipment regulations, in accordance with British Dressage rules.”

Ms Jones added: “When a steward finds equipment that either does not comply with the legally permitted tack, or is not correctly fitted, they will refer this to the judge at C, who carefully considers the evidence and determines the appropriate action to take.

“In this particular scenario, relating to the Sprenger Ultra Loose Ring, our stewards and judges have made the correct decision to follow the guidance supplied by the manufacturer.

“While this bit is approved under BD rules, in the case of these eliminations it has not been fitted correctly and used in the conventional manner.

“Our officials have a duty to uphold the rules and ensure that there is a level playing field for all competitors.

“Whether or not this provides a source of competitive advantage is only one factor, as horse welfare and the correct use of tack and equipment will always be at the very top of their considerations.”

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