The Curious Case of the Equestrian Athlete



When you think of an athlete, images likely spring to mind: a runner sprinting, a basketball player soaring, a gymnast twisting and turning. But what about a horse? Is a horse an athlete, or simply a piece of equipment used by a human rider?

This question sparks a fascinating debate within the equestrian world.

BACKGROUND: The matter remains sub-judice in the Delhi High Court since the horses cannot decide nor plead for themselves whether they are athlete or an equipment. The petitioner being the RAJASTHAN EQUESTRIAN ASSOCIATION which is entangled in a long-drawn battle with the EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION OF INDIA (EFI) over the issue of voting rights for the states, like any other sport. The Defendants argue that this sport is “peculiar” where there are two athletes, the individual and the horse and hence cannot have a pyramidal framework structure for the district and state bodies, give infrastructure is appropriate, and requirements specifically suitable to horses.

RAJASTHAN EQUESTRIAN ASSOCIATION contends that “horses are just horses”, whose hiring / transportation reimbursements get lumped with boats / yachts in the National Sports Code, and hence must be treated as equipment.

The Federation Equestrian Internationale (FEI), defines an athlete as "any person taking part in an FEI Event. Such person may be, including but not limited to a rider, a driver, a lunger, or a vaulter." (but they do not have any definition of horse). During international competitions, the FEI lists athletes, and horses separately and does not call them equine athletes.

    Italy' is the first country to categories horses as athletes through legislation.

RAJASTHAN EQUESTRIAN ASSOCIATION response to horses as athletes’ submission if horses are to be considered athletes, India may not be in a position to take part in international competitions as most of the horses used are of foreign breed. International Equestrian events need passports - "If horses are treated as athletes, Indian athletes will not be permitted to use foreign bred horses, as the Sports Code mandates that only an Indian national can represent India in International tournaments."
    

Arguments for the Horse as an Athlete:

  • Physical Prowess: Horses possess extraordinary athletic abilities. They demonstrate incredible strength, speed, agility, and stamina. Jumping fences, navigating complex courses, and carrying riders over long distances require immense physical exertion and coordination.
  • Training and Dedication: Like human athletes, horses undergo rigorous training. Years of conditioning, specialized exercises, and dietary adjustments are dedicated to honing their skills and maximizing their performance.
  • Mental Fortitude: Equestrian sports demand mental toughness from horses. They must learn to focus under pressure, overcome fear, and build trust with their riders.

Arguments for the Horse as Equipment:

  • Riders as the Primary Athletes: The focus in many equestrian disciplines lies on the rider's skill, strategy, and control. The horse is seen as a tool or instrument used by the rider to achieve their goals.
  • Dependence on Human Guidance: Horses rely heavily on human direction and guidance. Riders provide cues, control the pace, and ultimately determine the course of action.
  • Breeding and Selection: The breeding and selection of horses often prioritize traits that are advantageous for human riders, such as size, temperament, and specific gaits.

Conclusion:

The debate surrounding whether a horse is an athlete or equipment highlights the complex and multifaceted nature of the human-horse relationship. While the rider's skill is paramount, the horse's athleticism is undeniable. Recognizing and respecting this unique partnership is crucial for the continued growth and development of the equestrian world.

 

 - Adv. Mamta Singh Shukla
    HIGH COURT OF DELHI
     MOBILE 9560044035

 

 

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