The Equine Pathway
The World Class Programme is introducing an Equine Pathway (in partnership with the BEF Olympic Member Bodies) to sit alongside the human development pathway in order to identify and support world class horses.
The purpose of the Pathway is to identify horses that have the potential to develop into medal winning horses, the Programme will then work with and support the riders and the owners of the horses in order to help them maximise the horses’ potential. It is also hoped that the Programme will encourage owners to keep their horses with British riders and will enhance GBR’s chances at the 2012 Olympic Games and beyond.
Selection for the Pathway varies between disciplines and is still at pilot stage. Horses will either be identified through results linked to different age groups or through viewing of the horses. The development of the horses will be monitored against a pre-determined (but flexible) pathway with the aim to have the horses qualified to compete and challenge for medals at the 2012 olympics. The emphasis for Para-Equestrian Dressage will be on identifying the “right” horse(s) for each of the riders on the World Class Programme.
Support will be provided in order to assist the horse to maximise its potential and on an individual basis in conjunction with discussions with the owner/ rider. The Equine Pathway aims to provide support to potential world class horses through:
- Monitoring horses’ development through observation and
- Communication with the owner/rider
- Veterinary/farriery monitoring and advice
- Coaching advice and support
- Competition planning
- Support to the rider (physio etc), if not already on the World Class Programme.
A detailed record of each horse’s progress will be maintained and regular updates will be made through competition result analysis, training reviews and veterinary assessments.