Hong Kong's reaction on Swiss withdrawal

In response to media enquiries on reports of the withdrawal of Switzerland’s dressage team from this year’s Beijing 2008 Equestrian Events to be staged in Hong Kong, Equestrian Company (EqCo) and the Hong Kong Jockey Club January 10th said the decision is regrettable, but it is one made by an individual team only. It will not have any effect on the Games, the organisers forecast.

It must be emphasised that while the hot and humid conditions prevailing in Hong Kong in August have been well recognised, the welfare of the horses and athletes is of uppermost importance to the event organisers, the organising Equestrian Company said.

Transport arrangements, stabling, cooling facilities and veterinary services have all been refined to provide optimal support for the horses. Competition times have been arranged to take advantage of the cooler times of the day, either early in the morning or in the evening after sunset. Training times will also be adjusted according to weather conditions.

In addition to fully air-conditioned stables which will keep the horses cool and comfortable during the rest period, large misting fans and ice boxes will be installed at the venues to ensure maximum cooling effects for horses after competition.

Veterinary Services Manager of EqCo, Dr Riggs, said: “While the effects of the weather can never be guaranteed, we will be relying on some of the most sophisticated forecasting available in the world. We are confident that effective strategies will be in place to minimise the consequences of these prevailing conditions on the health and welfare of horses.”