Session 6: Optimising Performance in a challenging climate

John McEwen (GBR), Chair of the FEI Veterinary Committee, opened the session on optimising performance in a challenging climate, outlining best practice and management of horses and humans in hot weather. Hot or hot and humid environmental conditions can pose a serious risk to the health and performance of both human and equine athletes unless properly handled.

Dr David Marlin (GBR), a scientist with more than 25 years of experience in physiology and biochemistry, and equine veterinarian Dr Martha Misheff (USA) presented ways to prepare and manage horses competing in challenging climatic conditions.

Dr Peter Whitehead (GBR), Chair of the FEI Medical Committee, talked about ways to protect athletes in these conditions so that they – and their horse – can perform optimally.

The panellists also flagged up the advisory documents (Optimising Performance in a Challenging Climate and an executive summary) that have been circulated to National Federations and which are available in the supporting documents below and which contain best practice and advice for athletes, NFs and Organising Committees.

John McEwen, FEI Veterinary Committee Chair: “as far back and before the Atlanta Games we have reviewed best practice for the protection of our equine athletes.”

Dr David Marlin (GBR), Scientific and Equine Consultant: “The increased globalisation of sport, and levels of demand has created problems – this really changed with the management put in place for the Atlanta Games.”

“When assessing risk, the amount of change in climate determines if the horse is at risk.”

“This research makes it easier for people to become familiar with the risk weather conditions. Event scheduling has been part of the analysis for Tryon and Tokyo – thunderstorms, light conditions, all of those factors have been considered.”

Dr Martha Misheff (USA), Member of the FEI Veterinary Committee: “Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are taken from human medicine and also relate to horses. If you have seen a horse with heat stroke it’s not something you will forget and will certainly recognise again.”

“We want to keep the horses safe and we want to keep people safe.”

Dr Peter Whitehead (GBR), Chair of the FEI Medical Committee: “For human athletes, complete acclimatisation takes up to 14 days, and can be reduced with regular exercise at home prior to travelling, which will help improve regulation of body temperature.”

Moderator: Dr John McEwen (GBR), Chair of the FEI Veterinary Committee
Panel:
Dr David Marlin (GBR), Scientific and Equine Consultant
Dr Martha Misheff (USA), Member of the FEI Veterinary Committee
Dr Peter Whitehead (GBR), Chair of the FEI Medical Committee