Training impressions © Benkert

Basic rules of behavior in equestrian sports (Code of Conduct)

1. The riding operation must be characterized by respectful interaction with each other. Regardless of the level of training, sporting success, riding style, horse breed used and material possibilities, every equestrian deserves the same respect and appreciation.
2. Every equestrian sportsman is obliged to a fair and constructive discussion with a fellow rider, if there are any irregularities in training and contact with the partner horse and thus a violation of the "Ethical Principles of the Horseman".
3. Success or failure in sport depends usually on riding qualities. The (self-) critical and encouraging examination of the performance of the individual or a group is more honest and effective than looking for the source of error in the suitability of the horse.
4. The trainer must provide professionally sound and motivating instruction in pedagogically impeccable lessons and at the same time promote personality development, independent action and social behavior of the students entrusted to him. He should be a role model at all times, is committed to horsemanship and rejects all forms of prohibited performance influence.
5. The riding student shall show the riding instructor the same respect that he expects or receives from him. An open discussion about fears and excessive demands helps more than an emotional discussion in the riding arena.
6. Parents of the riding students or vaulting children should have a motivating effect on their children and adapt their expectations of the sporting development to the real conditions.
7. The equestrian athlete entrusts the stable owner and his staff with his horse and expects good treatment and a posture adapted to the needs of the horse. The service provided by the company as a whole as well as by the individual employee must be recognized and rewarded. Possible grievances must be discussed and corrected objectively.
8. The show judge must evaluate a performance without prejudice and on the basis of his professional qualification and must never expose himself to the suspicion of bias.
9. The tournament athlete must accept the judge's verdict in the judging judging procedure. If a decision remains incomprehensible, the only fair means is a clarifying discussion with the judge. Polemics in public disqualifies the rider and violates the basic rules of the sport.
10. The operator of a commercial stable or the horse seller must act responsibly in selling horses beyond the legal requirements and orientate the procurement of a horse to the level of training of horse and buyer as well as to the intended use of the horse.
11. The official in equestrian sports must be aware of his function as a role model and special responsibility for the sports and leisure partner horse. He is not only responsible for the proper operation of a riding stable, association, tournament or the like, but at the same time, as a contact person for politics, agriculture and economy, he has to perceive and represent the interests of the equestrian athletes and breeders.
12. Every equestrian sportsman is a beneficiary of the existing structures and possibilities within his sport. All those who work on a voluntary or full-time basis to secure the long-term future of equestrian sport as a popular sport in nature and the environment and as a competitive sport deserve recognition and support.