Patrik Kittel + Stanic + Rollkur = World Cup Qualifier Warm-Up Scandal.
Rollkur has been an issue written about on this blog fairly regularly, but until now there hasn't been a clearly demonstrating video available to show a ‘professional' using Rollkur in a competition setting for more than a brief period of time.
4 Minute, Edited with Slow Motion of Kittel Only
Unedited, Regular Speed version
The FEI has begun an “investigation” into the issue, likely to save face against all the public protest that has arisen, and still acknowledges that they support the use of Rollkur by professionals.
EponaTV, which posted the videos of Kittel at the World Cup, states on their website that this is normal routine with most international competitors when they film at shows and is not exclusive to Anky van Grunsven or Kittel, though Kittel does train with Sjef Janssen, Anky's partner. Looks as though the disease is catchy…
Sjef Janssen coaching Patrik Kittel aboard Stanic
FEI Certified ‘Happy Athlete'?
Anky in Aachen
Check out the following links for more info….
- EponaTV :
Blue Tongue at World Cup - EponaTV :
Blue Tongue Video FAQ FEI Launches Investigation into Odense Dressage Warm-Up- Dressage Disgrace
- Petition To BAN Rollkur!
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i got into dressage because of the harmony, the communication and unity between horse and rider, the gentle conditioning that progressively builds muscle and endurance…i chose this equestrian discipline to develop strong sound horses (both mentally and physically) that will keep going well into their twenties…how does it make dressage different from racing? the longevity of of an average european dressage horse is mind boggling 5 1/2 years – not surprising after seeing these videos…thanks for the great post…i have to go and give a hug now to my “precious ponies” and ensure them that this will be never done to them
I remember when the barefoot movement was gaining momentum, or at least more publicity, and Dr. Strasser was at the forefront of it. They frequently pointed the finger of the high performance horses’ quick demise on their poor hoofcare, and although she partnered up with Dr. Cook (bitless bridle) I was never made aware of any references to Rollkur that they added as an indicator to the young age of retirement of these European performers.
That being said, if the horse is constantly stressed and in a state of fear the amount of havoc being wreaked on his immune system must be absolutely horrific. The hormone Cortisol which is released during periods of stress literally prepares the body to die by shutting down physical processes. It is no surprise to me that an animal being abused and in an otherwise naturally high-stress lifestyle like international competition should face a quick demise. 🙁
I’m with you Petra, I give my ‘ponies’ hugs every day thankful that I am conscious enough not to engage in such harmful practices and put their needs before my own motivations.
this seems to be an extremely old comment but i HAVE to respond to this anyways… it all suddenly makes sense that there’s been horses known to just collapse after a round of jumping or dressage test. it all suddenly makes so much sense, as the riders are putting SERIOUS stress on these poor horses. as a rider, i personally believe that my job is to make the job of my horse as easy and comfortable as possible, while building his strength and confidence. thank you for bringing to light the awful practices in our world, and motivating us to do something about it!! your posts are truly amazing! much love!
glad you’re bringing up the barefoot trim, I am a great believer and make sure that i spread around the word in the local community…i am slowly getting people interested ;o)
i have a question since i really value your opinion…in the october’s issue of Dressage today, Linda Gurney admits that barefoot horses have healthier feet, however she says that sand in the dressage arenas grinds down hooves and therefore she recommends regular shoeing every 5 weeks…do you agree with this? i find that hard to believe…my farrier is a student of Peter Ramey, i ride all my horses in sand rinks as well as on gravel roads (one with old Macs and one without) and find this really hard to believe…your thoughs are appreciated :o)
Utterly heartbreaking…and shameful against the entire dressage community. The brutalization of horses has no business in any competition. Dressage represents elegance and ease while controlling your horse with subtlety and precision. Donning riding equipment and riding apparel incurs a responsibility towards the animals we ride and (hopefully!) love. At a time when the riding community is losing popularity, this cruelty can only hurt the entire industry.
I’m not certain how I missed responding to your post sooner Petra, regarding riding barefoot in sand arenas…
I have a hard time believing her remarks that sand wears the hooves down, at least if they are healthy barefoot hooves. Of course a horse with a thin hoof wall from years of poor trimming/shoeing will wear their hooves down to the quick in no time.