Ententeich

“FEI Stewards of all disciplines are reminded to pay particular attention to ensure that nosebands are not overtightened. It must be possible to place at least one finger between the horse’s cheek and the noseband.”

The FEI recently removed a guideline that required a two-finger sized gap to be present under the horses’ nosebands, arguing that the measurement was imprecise. The organisation is reluctant to embrace McGreevy’s call for the use of taper gauges. Its spokesperson said: “Through its own veterinary department, the FEI is constantly monitoring areas of relevant research. The FEI fully respects the research that has gone into developing the taper gauge. However, at competitions when horses - just like human athletes - can be high-strung, it is felt that a physical check is still the safest and most effective method of ensuring that nosebands are fitted correctly.”