As of January 1, 2016, draw reins will no longer be permitted in show jumping competitions in Switzerland.
Currently these artificial aids, used to put a horse into a flexed poll position, are allowed in the warm-up ring until the first jump, at award ceremonies and on competition grounds.
The Swiss Equestrian Federation (SVPS/FSSE) said in a press release, that this decision has been made in order to promote equine welfare and protect the image of equestrian sport.
Spectators, they say, do not look at the use of draw reins in a positive light, and this is something they want to avoid. “An image of coercion and pressure sends wrong signals and harms the image of equestrian sport,” states the release.
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