The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) is actively working to improve rider safety through the development of helmets and airbag vests. Chair of the FEI’s medical committee, Mark Hart, highlights the importance of educating athletes on the signs and symptoms of concussion, as well as the need for increased use of safety gear in sports involving falls and collisions.
While only a third of cross-country riders currently wear airbag vests, efforts are being made to increase their use among jumping riders. The vests are designed to reduce force on impact, protect the neck and head, and stiffen onto the torso to shield vital organs.
FEI data from elite-level eventing shows that 33 serious injuries were reported in 2023, with the majority of falls resulting in no injuries. However, five out of 25 rotational horse falls last year led to serious harm, demonstrating the potential risks involved in the sport.
The tragic death of British eventing rider Georgie Campbell in May serves as a somber reminder of the importance of rider safety. American rider Laura Kraut, who has been using an airbag vest following a severe fall in Belgium, stresses the value of such safety measures in preventing potentially life-threatening injuries.
Ultimately, the FEI’s focus on improving rider safety through innovative gear and increased awareness of concussion symptoms is crucial in ensuring the well-being of equestrian athletes worldwide. As the sport continues to evolve, prioritizing safety measures will remain a top priority for the governing body.
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