5* dressage rider competing without spurs

[Ambers Echo]

And doing very well!

‘Why not?’: rider is the first to compete at top level dressage without spurs

A dressage rider has become the first to ride at top level international competition without spurs following the FEI rule change to make them optional

www.horseandhound.co.uk

She does make the point that correct use of the spur is fine and she may use them in future. But she acknowledges the ‘dark shadows’ over dressage at the moment and felt it was important to show spectators a ‘happy, motivated horse’.

I think it’s very positive that a top rider named the current issues and tries to address them very directly with how she presents her own horses. I hope more will follow.

 

[ihatework]

It always bemused me that spurs were mandatory (and doubles still are).

It seems completely pointless.

Should be free choice

 

[tda]

It's a good start, but agree with ihatework.

Also waiting for some dressage riders to show videos of how they train piaffe/passage etc with a soft hand

 

[Auslander]

It's a good start, but agree with ihatework.

Also waiting for some dressage riders to show videos of how they train piaffe/passage etc with a soft hand

How about in a snaffle and no spurs with floppy reins?

 

[SaddlePsych'D]

I liked the article a lot and thought good on her. More of this please, top level dressage people!

 

[Ambers Echo]

I go for the floppy rein vibes too.

 

[Ambers Echo]

But not piaffe! I can aspire to that one day!!

 

[Bernster]

And nice to have someone come out with a more constructive comment, acknowledging the issues, and not being defensive or attacking.

 

[EventingMum]

I hopethis continues to be a trend. Obviously, all horses are different and I have no problem with correct use of spurs but don't think they should be compulsory. It was a pain when my son was eventing at what is now 3* level and spurs were compulsory, our horse hated being ridden in them so we had to use dummy spurs which seemed pointless!