Department updates in Main Eventing

Updated 12 May 2023

Eventing Olympic Minimum Eligibility Requirements

Please consult the FEI Regulations for Equestrian Events at the Olympic Games for Paris 2024 (Article 626) published here for the Minimum Eligibility Requirements (MER) applicable for Paris 2024 (the “Olympic Regulations”).

Athlete/Horse combinations will obtain a regular qualifying result as usual if the minimum eligibility requirements are met. However, in accordance with the rule set out in Article 626 of the Olympic Regulations, the approved Olympic Qualification system (see § 5, page 2),  we wish to remind NFs that Athlete/Horse combinations will not be eligible to earn a MER  for a qualifying result for the Olympic Games if the combination has already started a cross country test within less than 10 days after a short format competition (CCI–S) and within less than 28 days (i.e. 4 weeks) after a long format competition (CCI–L).

For the welfare of the Horse and for risk management reasons, the FEI will monitor all combinations participating, including those not respecting a rest period of 10 days after a short format competition or 28 days after a long format competition. Where possible, National Federations, Athletes, Coaches and Officials will be informed of entries not respecting the above deadlines to ensure that the welfare of the Horse remains paramount. However, and for the avoidance of doubt, it is each National Federation’s responsibility to monitor compliance with the rest period requirements. Should you have any question, please contact the Eventing and Olympic Department.

FRANGIBLE DEVICES
Following much development and discussion, the use of frangible fences is increasing across the whole sport. This is a very positive step for the ongoing safety of both horse and rider. As more Course Designers and Course Builders use these devices, we are aware that there will be new and creative ideas on how they can be used in the field. It is a significant help in understanding of how these devices work.

The most current instruction manuals for the building of frangible fences are always available on the FEI website (Eventing/Risk Management/Deformable & Frangible Devices), we encourage Course Builders to use these in constructing new fences and in adapting existing fences. 

Please follow as closely as possible these instructions. When building fences, if you come up with ideas, please take photos of your plans and email them to the Risk Management Steering Group (Stuart@bedeltd.co.uk or davidwvos@gmail.com), this will allow the monitoring and review of these innovations. Please bear in mind that not all innovations may be acceptable.

We are aware of the need for a period in which Course Designers and Course Builders work towards building new frangible fences to enable them to incorporate designs into more traditional type jumps that fit the instruction weights and dimensions. 

• As from 1 November 2023 all newly built fences must comply with the instructions. To help with inherent inaccuracy of building fences in the field, a margin of up to 25% over the maximum weight has been included in the MIM Instructions.

All new MIM fences should be fitted with a MIM weight plate as from 1^st November 2023 latest (available from MIM https://mimclip.mimsafe.com/shop/ at no charge and now supplied with all new kits) at time of building.

• All existing MIM frangible fences are acceptable until 1^st January 2025 after which they must meet the MIM instruction weights and dimensions. We encourage Course Designers to ensure they are adapted as per the conversion instructions as soon as possible. (N.B.: British Eventing Front Pins are currently not approved).

Please also refer to the updated version of the FEI Standard for Frangible/Deformable cross county fences (Version 3 - April 2023) available here.

Course Designers and Course Builders need to be aware that the lighter the rail, the less force is required to trigger the device. The use of light timber should be avoided where horses naturally ‘rub’ rails (e.g.: into coffins, high speed fences) and conversely, the heavier the rail / table the more force is required to activate the device. Heavy rails should be avoided where the jumping speed is slower.

As a reminder, there comes a point at which a heavy rail / table, even if suspended on air, could cause a rotation.

All MIM fences must not exceed the maximum specified rail / table weight by more than 25%. This weight includes the dressing (for example heavy pots on top of a table).

It is the responsibility of the event Officials to ensure frangible devices used at events are fitted in accordance with the instructions.

UPDATED MIM ONE PAGERS UPDATE
We know building Cross Country fences is not an exact science in the field, Course Designers and Technical Delegates should ensure that fences built with MIM devices follow the instructions.

The updated MIM ONE PAGE CORRECT FITTING CHECKS are enclosed and available to print out from the FEI website (Eventing / Risk Management / Deformable & Frangible Devices).

These check lists have also been added in the updated Cross Country Guide for Officials (Updated on 20.04.2023) available on the website (Eventing / Rules) and in the FEI Rule App (to display the latest version (Last update on 20 April 2023), you might have to delete the existing XC Guide document from the FEI Rule App library and swipe at the top of the App to refresh the documents), as well as on the Officials Facebook page.

They are available for the following kits:

• Table kit 80320
• Corner kit 80326
• Gate and Wall kit 80324
• Old Gate and Wall kit 00324

TD’s, CD’s and GJ should use these check lists during course inspections and check that the Course Builders have fitted the Frangible devices to the correct measurements.

Any frangible device not fitted according to the “MIM One page correct fitting checks” should be altered by the Course Builder / Course Designer by January 2025.

MIM INSTRUCTIONS UPDATE

It is essential to follow the MIM instruction to ensure the correct function.

The following instruction manuals have been updated on the FEI website (Eventing / Risk Management / Deformable & Frangible Devices):

• Oxer kit – 80329
• Post & Rail Kit – 80321
• Post & Rail Adjustable Kit – 80325
• Post & Rail Narrow Kit – 80322
• Gate & Wall Kit – 80324
• Older Gate and Wall Kit - 00324
• Table Kit – 80320
• Older Table Kit Update – 00320
• Corner Kit – 80326

MIM QUESTIONS / ASSISTANCE

Any question about correct fitting of frangible devices are to be addressed to:

RMSG members:

• Stuart Buntine : stuart@bedeltd.co.uk, (GBR mobile n° +44 7717 412 167)
• Dave Vos : davidwvos@gmail.com, (USA mobile n° +1 540 532 7079)

MIM founder:

• Mats Björnetun: mats@mimsafe.com, (mobile n° +46 70 853 21 80)

Note: please be mindful of time zones if using their mobile numbers

A list of Frangible Device Advisors is also available in the MIM FAQs document.

If a frangible device is incorrectly fitted, it would be very helpful if you could take a photo and send it (to the above-mentioned) as it will help to identify what errors are being made and improve the instruction manuals accordingly.

All information relating to Frangible Devices is available on the FEI website under Eventing / Risk Management / Frangible Devices

CROSS COUNTRY GUIDE FOR OFFICIALS UPDATE

The following sections have been updated; the Cross Country Guide for Officials is available on the FEI website (Eventing / Rules) and in the FEI Rule App (to display the latest version (Last update on 20 April 2023), you might have to delete the existing XC Guide document from the FEI Rule App library and swipe at the top of the App to refresh the documents) 

Page 21 - Frangible Deformable Devices (art. 547.2.4)

• It is highly recommended that all new table type fences are made frangible (where they fit the dimensions and weights of the frangible manufacturer). For those tables made with the old MIM table kit there is a conversion instruction available on the FEI website.
• To give frangible devices the best opportunity to release with the right force its important they are fitted to the manufacturer’s instructions.

• A show jump rail comes down with approx. 5 Joule force.
• With MIM devices, the back rail needs a minimum of 700 Joule (1400 times a showjump rail) to break the clip.
• The rail weight is important for devices to work correctly and must be checked by the builder when constructed. With MIM devices the rail weight may exceed the relevant maximum weights (as specified in the MIM Instructions) by up to 25% of the relevant maximum weight. There are no minimum rail weight requirements. Please refer to the document “Instructions for weighing MIM fences” published on the FEI website (Eventing / Risk Management / Deformable & Frangible Devices).
• All newly built fences with MIM frangible devices must meet the manufacturer’s instructions as from 1 November 2023. A weight plate is to be attached to all new built fences from that date. (Note: weights can exceed the relevant maximum weight (as specified in the MIM Instructions) by up to 25% of the relevant maximum weight. 

• All existing fences with MIM frangible devices must meet the manufacturer’s instructions as from 1 January 2025. A weight plate is to be attached to all fences from that date. (Note: weights can exceed the relevant maximum weight (as specified in the MIM Instructions by up to 25% of the relevant maximum weight.
• Table Fences: When weighing these fences any dressing such as heavy pots or similar need to be taken into account when calculating compliance with the maximum weight requirements.

Page 22 - Current thoughts on what device to use

• Corners: The updated MIM system must be used for open corners using the yellow clips.
• Tables: It is highly recommended that all new table type fences are made frangible.

Being in a pre-Olympic year, we would like to remind you of the importance of respecting the various deadlines regarding the submission of schedule and results

As per art.507 of the FEI Eventing Rules - Schedule and
507.1 Schedule
For all Competitions the schedule of the Competition drafted in the form prescribed by the FEI must be sent to the FEI for approval at the latest:
a) Four weeks before the Competition for CCI1*-Intro, CCI2* & 3* Long or Short level
b) Ten weeks before the Competition for CCI4* Long or short, CCI5* Long, CCIOs and CH all levels.
Failure to respect the above deadlines will be dealt according to the General Regulations provisions.
No Schedule can be approved after the closing date of the entries.

507.2 Results
Full result of the Competitions must be forwarded to the FEI by the Organising Committee preferably immediately at the end of the Event and up to a maximum of two days after the Event is finished according to the electronic format described by FEI.
Failure to respect the above deadline will be dealt according to the General Regulations provision.
We thank you in advance for taking good note of the above.

The Eventing Statistics Report 2011 – 2022 has been finalised. 

It is published on the FEI website under Eventing / Risk Management

FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ 2023
The Board approved the allocation of a leg of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup™ 2023 to Bromont (CAN) to be held from 11 to 13 August 2023.

We would like to share with you the following updates:

FRANGIBLE DEVICES

The implementation of Frangible Devices has grown rapidly in the last few years and the latest standard (Version 2.(5), March 2020) which includes the fitting of “Yellow Clips” for Table and Corner fences are now being seen regularly at events, (250 table kits rolling out in the USA at present).

Serious injury to Horses and Riders has reduced with 2022 recording the lowest rotational fall rate since recordings began.

Like all safety devices, the FEI approved frangible devices MUST be fitted correctly to the manufacturer’s instructions which have been extensively tested. This ensures that the devices break with the correct energy- not too light or hard.

To help all FEI Officials and Course Builders, MIM have developed “One Page correct fitting checks” that can easily be used pre-event when building and/or on first inspection of the course, to ensure the most important measurements in fitting MIM devices have been implemented, so they break correctly.

•        MIM ONE PAGE CORRECT FITTING CHECKS are available to print out from the FEI website (Eventing / Risk Management / Deformable & Frangible Devices). These check lists have also been added in the updated Cross Country Guide for Officials (Updated on 09.03.2023) available on the website (Eventing / Rules) and in the FEI Rule App as well as on the Officials Facebook page.

They are available for the following kits:

• Table kit 80320
• Corner kit 80326
• Gate and Wall kit 80324
• Old Gate and Wall kit 00324

TD’s, CD’s and GJ should use these check lists during course inspections and check that the Course Builders have fitted the Frangible devices to the correct measurements. Any frangible device not fitted according to the “MIM One page correct fitting checks” should be altered by the Course Builder / Course Designer.

•        MIM UPDATED INSTRUCTION MANUALS:

The instructions for the following kits have been updated.

One change includes the use of the eye bolt tension system for both RED and YELLOW clip construction that has been tested in the UK for some time.

In addition, as the WEIGHT of the timber used is important to ensure MIM devices activate with the correct activation energy, MIM have updated all their instructions REMOVING some of the timber dimensions and making the WEIGHT RANGES clearer. We hope this will allow Course Designers / Course Builders to use more natural timbers including for Table type fences which can be built to look like filled in Oxers.

The following instruction manuals have been updated:

•        Oxer kit – 80329

•        Post & Rail Kit – 80321

•        Post & Rail Adjustable Kit – 80325

•        Post & Rail Narrow Kit – 80322

•        Gate & Wall Kit – 80324

•        Older Gate and Wall Kit - 00324

•        Table Kit – 80320

•        Older Table Kit Update – 00320

•        Corner Kit – 80326

•        INSTRUCTIONS FOR WEIGHING MIM FENCES:

Full instructions are published on the FEI website: Eventing / Risk Management / Deformable & Frangible Devices

The Risk Management Steering Group and MIM are keen to see the use of more different types, including natural and not machined timbers, in the building of frangible fences in the future. As the frangible devices are more widely adopted, this will allow Course Designers and Course Builders to use many different material options.

The WEIGHT of the timber used is important to ensure MIM devices work correctly. MIM have therefore updated all their instructions REMOVING some of the timber dimensions and making the WEIGHT RANGES clearer. We hope this will allow Course Designers and Course Builders to use more natural timbers including for Table fence types which could be built to look like filled in Oxers.

•        WEIGHING A RAIL OR TABLE FENCE

The weighing can be done once, at the time of manufacture. A scale hanging from the front of a tractor is all that is needed.

A hanging scale can be bought (for under $100).

•        MIM WEIGHT PLATE:

MIM have developed a “Weight plate” to be fixed on all newly built fences fitted with MIM frangible devices. The plates can be ordered, free of charge, from MIM (https://mimclip.mimsafe.com/shop/)

•        All new MIM kits will have the plate included

•        Weighing the fence when it is newly built and the timber is likely to be the heaviest is acceptable whether the fence is WET or DRY

•        The plate can be fitted to the end of a rail or an upright

•        It must be filled in by the Course Designer or Course Builder with a permanent marker so all Officials can see the fence / rail fits the correct weight

•        All NEW fences must be built to the correct weight as from April 2023

•        Any existing fences weighing outside the weights indicated in the instruction manual must be changed as soon as practical and should not be used by 1 January 2025

•        QUESTIONS / ASSISTANCE:

Any questions about correct fitting of frangible devices are to be addressed to:

• RMSG members: Stuart Buntine stuart@bedeltd.co.uk, (GBR mobile n° +44 7717 412 167) Dave Vos (USA mobile n° +1 540 532 7079) davidwvos@gmail.com
• MIM founder Mats Björnetun mats@mimsafe.com (mobile n° +46 70 853 21 80)

Note: please be mindful of time zones if using their mobile numbers - They are available and happy to answer.

A list of Frangible Device Advisors is also available in the MIM FAQs document.

• If a frangible device is incorrectly fitted, it would be very helpful if you could take a photo and send it (to the above-mentioned) as it will help to identify what errors are being made and improve the instruction manuals accordingly.

All information relating to Frangible Devices is available on the FEI website under Eventing / Risk Management / Frangible Devices

 

FAQ JUDING FENCES WITH FRANGIBLE TECHNOLOGY

In addition, the “FAQ Judging fences with Frangible technology” has also been updated to provide a clarification when a combination has a refusal and breaks a frangible device. Please refer to the document published under Eventing / Rules (also available in the FEI Rule App).

 

CROSS COUNTRY GUIDE FOR OFFICIALS (Updated 09.03.2023)

Please take note of the following amendments:

Frangible Deformable Devices (pages 20-21-22-23-24-25)

•        Recommendation that all new table type fences are made frangible

•        Addition of the forces at which fences fall/break

•        Addition of the MIM One Page correct fitting checks

•        Reference to the “Instructions for weighing MIM fences”

Dimensions – Table type fences (page 29)

•      Table type fences: it is highly recommended that all new table type fences are made frangible

The Cross Country Guide for Officials is the indispensable reference document. We encourage you to regularly consult it, as it is frequently updated.

Available on the FEI website (Eventing / Rules) and in the FEI Rule App.

 

2023 EVENTING REPORTS

The following 2023 Eventing reports have been updated and are available on the FEI website (Officials / Eventing / Eventing Forms):

•        Eventing Reports - TD Report, Judge Report, Chief Steward Report, Athlete Report, Fall Report, etc.

•        Fence Description (and Instructions for filling in Fence Description Form): An additional column “fence removed” has been added to record any fence removed before or during XC test

•        Fence Analysis: when a fence is removed either before or during the XC, please indicate for “obstacles removed – not jumped” (ORNJ) to identify combinations

Should you have any questions, comments or need additional information, don’t hesitate to contact us (Nathalie.desscan@fei.org).

 

The new 2023 Eventing Officials Education System was published on 26 August 2022 for implementation on 1 January 2023. The development and review of the Education concept involved a large number of working groups and as for all major transitions, the ramifications are complex. The new Education system for Eventing Officials will be closely monitored during the first years, to understand its impact on the sport and if improvements are needed.
 The Eventing Committee and the dedicated Working Group agreed to share the considerations which lead to the development of the updated Education system for Eventing Officials, for transparency and easier comprehension.
1. Objectives

• The objective of the Four Level Education system is to provide a fair worldwide system based on competencies.
• The alignment with other sports, and FEI Officials & disciplines is a priority.
• The overall philosophy and concept are fundamental elements aiming to educate and engage new Officials from national level to progress up to the highest level.
• The FEI Officials Lists are based on a rolling process updated regularly, taking into account the transfer-up and maintenance requirements. The process integrates experience, knowledge and proven expertise in the field of play to establish objective evaluations.

2. Transition period
A Transition year has been integrated in the overall system to ensure a successful introduction until 14 December 2023: it applies specifically to the two new levels: Level 1 (L1) and Level 4 (L4) Officials.
This includes:

1. All Level 3 Officials (Judges, TDs and CDs) are allowed to officiate as L4 Officials during the transition period.
2. National officials are still allowed to officiate at CCIs, as detailed in art. 513.1 onwards
3. As of January 01, only Stewards can be confirmed L4 due to the implementation of the new Education System (FEI Eventing Officials list).
4. The level 4 lists for Judges/TD/Course Designers will be published and updated during the course of the year in the FEI Eventing Officials list once the status has been confirmed– see 3.2 below  

3. Clarifications on Officials Roles & Levels at Events:
Further to the many questions received, we wish to clarify the following points:
3.1 New Level 1:

1. Assistant Technical Delegates: National Assistant TD may be appointed as Assistant TD for all categories of events until December 2023.  

3.2 New Level 4:
The number of Games, Championships and 5* events in the discipline of Eventing requiring Level 4 Officials is limited. This level of events represent 1% of the total number of Eventing events organised per year. Only the President of Ground Jury, Technical Delegate, Course Designer and Chief Steward are required to hold a L4 status.

1. L3 Officials who met the L4 transfer requirements by 31.12.2022 will be contacted individually by the Eventing Department to confirm their interest in transferring to L4. The online examination and interview will be organised in accordance during 2023 for the transfer to L4. The in-person course at FEI HQ will be organised in 2023-2024.

 4. Requirement as of 01 January 2024:

5. National Officials will not be able to officiate at CCIs.
6. Level 3 officials allowed to officiate as detailed in art. 513.1 onwards
7. Level 4 officials must be appointed as Pdt, TD or CD at CCI5*, CHs and Games, as detailed in art. 513.3 & 513.5  

5. Additional Information
For additional information, please refer to Eventing Education webinar replay and the Q&A document.

All Officials or NF Officials Education Responsible can contact the Eventing Department eventingofficials@fei.org if any further questions or clarifications are needed.

The FEI Eventing Forum and NSO Seminar held in Haras de Jardy (FRA), 20-22 January 2023 is available to watch on replay on the dedicated FEI Eventing Risk Management webpage. You will also find the report and all the presentations/annexes.

As 2022 draws to a close, we are pleased to bring to your attention the latest information on preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The attached document contains detailed updates on:

GENERAL INFORMATION
- Paris 2024 Equestrian Delivery Entity: Appointment of GL Events Equestrian Sport
- Jumping Co-Course Designers for Paris 2024 Olympic Games
- Eventing Course Designer Pierre Le Goupil Paris 2024
- Competition schedule for Paris 2024 Olympic Games
- Eventing Horse Inspection

FEI RULES AND REGULATIONS
- Paris 2024 Olympic Games
- Paris 2024 Paralympic Games

QUALIFICATION OF NATIONS
- Qualification systems for Paris 2024 Olympic Games
- FEI Olympic Group Qualification Events (Jumping, Dressage, Eventing)
- Paris 2024 Paralympic Games - Para Dressage Qualification System

PARIS 2024 VENUE TESTING ACTIVITIES

Accreditation FOR HORSE OWNERS

TICKETING

We hope you find this information useful and take the opportunity to wish a very Happy and Merry Holiday Season!

Please be informed that, in order to line up the FEI Eventing Rules with the Eventing Officials Education System and the introduction of two additional Officials categories, the FEI Board has approved the following update to the FEI Eventing Rules:

511. 1  Eventing Stewards specifics
All FEI listed Judges and Technical Delegates will automatically be listed as Level 1 FEI Stewards.

512 Requirements for Maintenance of Status
Officials not fulfilling the Eventing Official Education system requirements will be transferred down or dropped from the Eventing Officials list. at the discretion of the Eventing Committee.

513 Appointment of Officials
Short Format (CCIs-S andCCIOs-S)

Long Format (CCIs-L and CCIOs-L)

513.5    Championships & Games

Given that this is an Emergency Board Resolution, National Federations have until 13 January 2023 to signify their disapproval by sending an email to Francisco P. Lima, Director Governance & Institutional Affairs.
The updated FEI Eventing Rules, which come into effect on 1 January 2023, are now available here.