End Animal Cruelty for Sport at the Olympics

Target: Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee

Goal: Ensure no animal is exploited for entertainment in future Olympic events.

Allegations of animal cruelty in equestrian sports at the Olympics have surfaced, with reports of horses experiencing pain, distress, and abuse. Notably, the 2020 Tokyo Olympics saw multiple incidents, including a coach allegedly punching a horse and a horse suffering a nosebleed. Earlier this week, Team GB dressage champion Charlotte Dujardin reportedly withdrew from the Paris Olympics due to an incident where she was filmed whipping a horse. Despite efforts to implement welfare recommendations, concerns remain unaddressed.

In dressage, allegations include the use of painful riding aids and practices like the ‘rollkur,’ which can cause significant physical and mental harm to horses. Show jumping and eventing also face criticism for reported violent whipping, overuse of spurs, and “rapping,” leading to severe injuries. Eventing, a demanding three-day discipline, allegedly results in severe injuries or death for many horses.

The French Government has created 46 recommendations for equestrian sports at the 2024 Paris Olympics, aiming to mitigate animal welfare concerns. These include relaxation areas, a “Welfare Committee,” and 24/7 video monitoring. While these improvements are welcome, they do not address the root cause of the suffering. To safeguard horses from potential abuse and suffering, all equestrian sports must be dropped from the Olympics.

Many kind-hearted people may partake in equestrian sports, unaware of the alleged cruelty. However, the exploitation of horses in the name of “tradition” and “status quo” is unacceptable. At their best, humans are compassionate and kind. These values are gold-medal worthy – the subjugation of an innocent animal is absolutely not. Take actions that will shape the future.

PETITION LETTER:

Dear President Thomas Bach,

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the continued use of animals in equestrian sports at the Olympics. Numerous allegations of severe abuse and neglect have surfaced, highlighting the potential cruelty involved in using horses for competitive sports.

At the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, reports indicated a coach punching a horse and another horse suffering a horrific nosebleed. These are not isolated incidents but are indicative of the systemic issues that may occur within equestrian sports. Earlier this week, Team GB dressage champion Charlotte Dujardin reportedly withdrew from the Paris Olympics due to an incident where she was filmed whipping a horse.

Despite efforts to implement welfare recommendations, the core issue of potentially exploiting animals for entertainment remains unresolved. Allegations of painful riding aids, practices like the ‘rollkur,’ and demanding disciplines like show jumping and eventing suggest significant physical and mental harm to horses.

It is time for the International Olympic Committee to take a definitive stand against potential animal cruelty. I urge you to ensure that no animals are exploited in future Olympic events. Removing equestrian sports from the Olympics will send a powerful message that cruelty, whether alleged or proven, has no place in our society.

Sincerely,

[Your Name Here]

Photo credit: Virginia Hill