GENEVA — The international equestrian federation has unveiled a strategy of increased testing and holding riders responsible as part of its fight against doping following the fiasco at the 2004 Athens Olympics.
“Athens was really a bad moment for the sport,” said FEI spokeswoman Malina Gueorguiev. “It was a big problem and it was very spectacular.”
Three gold medalists were stripped of their titles four years ago.
The federation is eager to restore the sport’s reputation when the eventing, dressage and showjumping events are staged in Hong Kong in August.
The FEI approved its anti-doping strategy of more tests and better communication with riders and veterinarians after a week of meetings.
“For human athletes, we are not facing any serious problems: For the horses every medication is forbidden in competition — that is the bottom line,” Gueorguiev said.
Officials will take urine samples from the three leading horses in each discipline and conduct further random tests.
A strict liability rule makes riders responsible for any positive test by their horses and gave a clearer definition between doping and medication.
“Horses do need treatment. Sometimes it might be that the horse is scratched, they apply some cream and there it is, a positive case,” Gueorguiev said.
 

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