Paralympic Q & A

Why did IPEC join FEI?

Three years ago the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) decided to encourage Paralympic sports to have closer ties with their International sporting body for the able-bodied, with a view to becoming an integral part of that body.
This is in keeping with the philosophy that the "sport " is the key aspect of Paralympianism, not the "disability". The ultimate aim of this move is to have all athletes who participate in a sport, both able-bodied and disabled, covered by the one responsible organization: - that sport’s international federation. For equestrian sport, that International body is the Federation Equestrian International – the FEI.


Will it make a difference to me as a competitor?
In the past you may have contacted a wide range of people and organisations.
As a competitor within your nation it will now mean that for all queries regarding your sport, including functional classification and competitions, you will need to contact your National Equestrian Federation.

Your NF is now your official contact.

Most importantly, you will only be able to compete internationally through your NF and you will, of course, need to become familiar with the FEI Rules which will apply to our sport.

In the transition from IPEC responsibility to NF responsibility, there may be some differences in the speed with which the NF makes provision for a nominated person or committee to deal with enquiries and as a rider you need to take some responsibility to try to assist and educate your NF about PE and also to be a patient and willing ambassador for PE.

More Q&A on
http://www.ipec-athletes.de/index.php?option=content&task=view&id=40