A Controversial Training Session Captures Global Equestrian Bodies’ Attention
A training video uploaded on the 1st of February on the Instagram account of dressage competitor Cesar Parra has sparked significant concern among equestrian circles worldwide. The footage, which is believed to feature Parra himself, depicts a series of training exercises where horses are subjected to whipping and rigorous discipline both while mounted and from the ground.
The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) was quick to respond to the outcry the video generated among the equestrian community. An official representative from the USEF expressed their dismay and described the content of the video as both appalling and abhorrent. The federation has taken immediate steps by notifying the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), the global governing body for equestrian sports, to commence an investigation into the matter. The USEF has reiterated its stance against any training methodologies that are abusive towards horses and directed individuals to their official website for further information on how to report equine abuse and the federation’s role in preventing such practices.
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The FEI, in turn, has issued a statement, confirming that an immediate provisional suspension has been placed on Cesar Parra, a dressage athlete from the USA with an FEI ID of 10000031. The FEI’s spokesperson communicated via email that the suspension comes as the FEI delves into the concerning images and videos related to Parra’s training techniques that have surfaced. The FEI emphasizes that equestrian sports are founded upon the respect and care for equine partners, prioritizing their mental and physical wellbeing over competitive or training goals.
The FEI’s regulations clearly state that any act or omission resulting in pain or unnecessary discomfort to a horse is a violation of its rules, warranting sanctions. The organization remains steadfast in its commitment to maintain the highest standards of equine welfare and to penalize any deviations from these principles. The FEI has declared that it is conducting an urgent investigation into this case and is in close coordination with the USEF. It has been clarified that the FEI’s provisional suspension and any subsequent sanctions will be acknowledged at the national level.
The FEI further commented on its dedication to ensuring that horses involved in the sport enjoy positive welfare throughout their lives. It aims to reflect these principles in its regulations, policies, practices, and the broader equestrian community’s actions, promising to address any actions or behaviours that contradict its values.
Cesar Parra, who is based in Frenchtown, New Jersey, and Jupiter, Florida, is no stranger to controversy regarding allegations of horse welfare violations, though he was cleared of previous accusations. Parra, a seasoned competitor, has represented Colombia at the 2004 Athens Olympic Games, participated in two FEI World Equestrian Games, an FEI World Cup Final in Nevada, and a Pan American Games in Manitoba. After changing his citizenship to the United States in 2009, Parra secured a team gold at the 2011 Guadalajara Pan American Games in Mexico.
The equestrian community now awaits the outcome of the FEI and USEF’s investigation into the allegations against Parra, underscoring the importance of ethical training practices and the welfare of equine athletes in the sport.
