According to a report by the German Equestrian Federation, the Preis der Besten U-21 equestrian tournament in the Munich-Riem district was cancelled when it was discovered that several ponies had been subjected to animal welfare-related incidents in the stable area of the Olympic equestrian facility overnight on Feb. 14. Wilfried Herkommer, who was at the event along with his granddaughter, told the German media outlet Equi-Pages that six ponies had their manes and tails cut off, and several had their tongues tightly wrapped with rubber bands. The attending veterinarian stated that, based on the current assessment, no lasting damage is expected. Blood samples are being examined to determine whether the ponies may have been sedated.
Police have launched an investigation and security at the facility is being further tightened. “We will do everything we can to ensure that horses and horse enthusiasts feel as safe as possible and that access is even more strictly controlled in the future,” said Thomas Schreder, managing director of the Bavarian Riding and Driving Association.
Dr. Dennis Peiler, chairman of the German Equestrian Federation, remarked, “It is understandable that the public is also affected and demands that those responsible for this act be punished. It is also very important to us that the incidents are fully clarified and appropriately punished. But that is a matter for the investigating authorities.”
Last weekend’s Preis der Besten (“Prize of the Best”) is a selection trial for the nationwide competition for young riders, held in Warendorf from May 8-10 in dressage, show jumping, and vaulting.
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