Eliminations for overuse of spurs / whip

[MagicMelon]

Have to say that Im impressed that riders are being punished for over use of the spurs and whip. Jur Vrieling's behaviour was horrid and quite why he was allowed to compete today I don't understand. Delighted to see that finally welfare is actually being taken seriously at the highest level.

 

[teapot]

I too don't understand why he was alloowed to ride when his score wasn't going to count. Surely disqualified is disqualified?

 

[sasquatch]

apparently they were eliminated as marks were found on the horse.

On instagram, one of the grooms is disputing it to say the disqualification was fair, but anyone who thinks the riding was harsh or more than an overreaction is wrong. It has been pointed out to them that the marks would not have been there if the temper had not been taken out, and as the disqualification happened very quickly after exiting the arena, they must have been very visible, that arguably excessive, unnecessary force was used and it doesn't show the horse or rider in a good light. Except apparently it's a thing foreigners don't understand, and as athletes these horses are treated amazingly and athletes must be made to work hard, according to this groom - funny, I think anyone who starting kicking and smacking Lewis Smith for falling off the pommel horse and losing the GB gymnastics team a medal wouldn't be considered as just making an athlete work hard.

 

[Sandstone1]

If riders can't control their tempers maybe spurs should be banned.