The FEI's new dressage task force met for the first time early this week in Frankfurt, with the focus on the group's function and the training and selection of judges.
The meeting was chaired by Frank Kemperman with riders' representative Richard Davison (GBR); trainers' representative Robert Dover (USA); Chefs d'equipe representative Alain Franqueville (FRA); owners' representative Elisabeth Max-Theurer (AUT); and judges' representative Katrina Wuest (GER) in attendance. The FEI was represented by its sports and dressage directors.
As well as clarifying the function of both the task force and the FEI's Dressage Committee, the selection, assessment, and training of judges for major championships and the Olympic Games was discussed. The general education and evaluation of judges was also under discussion.
Looking at the number and positioning of judges and the judging process at competitions is among the task force's briefs.
In terms of riders, the system for qualification for Championships, and the receipt of Certificates of Capability for Championships, World Cups, and the Olympic Games is also under review. It was also noted that the decision to move from four to three riders in a team has not been universally accepted as the best for the sport and this decision will be reviewed.
The next meeting of the Dressage Task Force will take place at the end of March or beginning of April. Its final report will be presented to the FEI General Assembly in November this year.