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South African horses can now fly directly to the EU
31 March 2024
South African horses are set to gallop onto the global stage a whole lot easier than before following the European Union’s decision to lift a longstanding ban on equine exports. This move marks a significant turnaround for South Africa’s racing and breeding sectors, which have faced economic challenges due to restricted international movement.
For 13 years, South African thoroughbreds were grounded, unable to participate freely in global racing circuits. This was a consequence of concerns over the deadly African horse sickness, which led to a rigorous export process involving extended quarantines and detours through third countries. However, the recent revision of these stringent regulations heralds a new era of opportunity.
The change came after a detailed audit of South Africa’s export protocols by an EU investigative team in 2022, a process delayed by the global pandemic and complex diplomatic negotiations. The audit’s positive outcome has now opened the gates for South African horses to directly enter Europe from the Kenilworth quarantine station in the Western Cape, following a much shorter pre-export quarantine period.
This breakthrough is the result of persistent efforts by the South African Equine Health and Protocols (SAEHP), established in 2018 to address the export ban. With support from the Department of Agriculture and significant backing from the Hong Kong Jockey Club, SAEHP has worked tirelessly to reinstate South Africa as a reputable source of high-caliber racehorses.
David Abery, Chairman of SAEHP, expressed his excitement and gratitude for the collective effort that led to this achievement. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the newly established standards to ensure the continued success of South African equine exports. Dr Mpho Maja, representing the Department of Agriculture, also praised the collaborative spirit that made this milestone possible, highlighting the bright future for South African horses on the international racing scene.
London’s Elite Sought The Finest Steeds From Across Europe during medieval times
30 March 2024
In medieval England, the crème de la crème of horses were not just animals; they were the Lamborghinis of their time—prized possessions that symbolized wealth and status. A fascinating find in Elverton Street, London, has thrown open the barn doors to a deeper understanding of these noble creatures. An excavation unearthed a horse cemetery, allowing archaeologists a rare glimpse into the equine elite of yesteryears.
These horses, standing proud at 1.6 meters—or 5.2 feet—might not tower over the breeds we’re accustomed to today, but back then, they were the epitome of equine majesty. Recent studies delved into the origins and lives of these medieval horses, revealing that they hailed from all over Europe, from the frosty realms of Scandinavia to the rugged landscapes of the Alps. This international assembly underscores the lengths to which the medieval elite went, not just to procure but to parade horses that were a cut above the rest.
The secret to tracing the steps of these horses back to their roots lies in their teeth. Isotope analysis—a method that examines the chemical footprints preserved in tooth enamel—has unveiled that these horses were not native to England. Instead, they were the prized selections of monarchs and nobles who scoured the continent for the finest steeds, likely to be showcased in the jousting tournaments of Westminster.
The analysis didn’t stop at origins. It also peered into the lives these horses led. Findings suggest that these animals were reared on royal farms for a couple of years before setting off to their prestigious destinations. A closer look at their teeth hinted at the use of a curb bit, a tool designed for precise control, hinting at their roles not just as companions in pageantry but as participants in the demanding arenas of war and jousting.
Despite the hard work and rigorous lives these horses endured, their status remained unmatched, embodying the pinnacle of medieval horse mastery. Their bones tell stories of strenuous activity, yet they were undoubtedly the aristocrats of their species, their very existence a testament to their owners’ wealth and status.
This discovery illuminates the vast and varied tapestry of medieval horse trading, revealing a network that spanned across Europe. It highlights not only the elite’s quest for the most magnificent horses but also the central role these animals played in the societal and economic fabric of the time.
Published in Science Advances, this study not only enriches our understanding of medieval life and luxury but also showcases the incredible journey of discovery that connects us with our past through the noble horse.
James Smith provisionally suspended by the fei
Saturday, 16 March 2024
The FEI has provisionally suspended Great Britain’s James Smith following images that have surfaced from what appears to be a recent FEI event.
“The FEI is liaising closely with the British Equestrian Federation and British Showjumping regarding the Athlete James Smith and has provisionally suspended him as of 16 Marc 2024 following equine concerns relating to photos that appear to have been taken at a recent FEI event.” an FEI spokesman told the press.
“The FEI’s provisional suspension was imposed further to the suspension imposed by British Showjumping, which was confirmed to the FEI on 16 March 2024, and prohibits the Athlete from entering and/or competing or training Athletes/Horses at any FEI Events, or any national events until further notice and while the images and circumstances of the incident are being investigated. See FEI General Regulations Article 164.6 for the full definition/description.
“The training methods depicted in the images have no place in our sport, are against our regulations and will not be tolerated,”and FEI spokesman pointed out. “Horse welfare is the highest priority for the FEI and our member bodies, and we will continue to work closely together to ensure our Rules and Regulations concerning equine welfare and wellbeing are both respected and enforced.”
Horses and donkeys still have a place in agriculture
13 March 2024
When you dive into the heart of farming and agriculture, you will discover that despite the march of technology, horses, donkeys, and mules hold a timeless place in the fields and hearts of many across the globe. Even as tractors and modern machinery have become commonplace, these noble animals continue to be indispensable partners in various parts of the world, especially across the vast landscapes of Africa. Imagine a world where these steadfast companions are not just relics of the past but key players in agriculture’s present and future.
With over 112 million domesticated equids worldwide, their majority remain at the forefront of agricultural labor. These animals are not just workers; they are part of the ecosystem, plowing fields, tilling soil, and even serving as eco-friendly transport for crops and farmers alike. The scene where a farmer navigates the steep and rugged terrain, with a horse by their side, speaks volumes about the unmatched utility these animals provide, tasks where even the most robust machinery might falter.
Beyond their physical contributions, horses and donkeys offer an ecological boon as well. Their manure, a once-simple byproduct, has become a golden resource in improving soil quality and fostering a more sustainable farming practice. Amid skyrocketing fertilizer prices, this natural alternative offers a lifeline to maintaining fertile lands without harming the surrounding environment.
But the story doesn’t end with farming. These animals carve out new pathways for farmers to diversify income through equine agritourism. From trail rides to horse camps, they open doors to experiences that connect people with the land in the most authentic ways. However, this venture isn’t just about having the resources but also the passion and patience to share the beauty of equine life with others.
Breeding, too, offers a realm of opportunity. Whether it’s for competitive racing or strengthening the draught horse lineage, it’s a meticulous art that demands knowledge and care. It’s about creating legacies, preserving strengths, and nurturing the future stars of the field and track.
In every aspect, from labor to leisure, conservation to breeding, horses enrich the agricultural tapestry with their strength, versatility, and grace. They remind us that in our quest for progress, there’s wisdom in the ways of the past, and perhaps, a greener, more sustainable future lies in the hoofprints of our equine partners. Let’s not forget the magic and might these animals bring to our farms and fields, for in them lies a legacy of resilience, companionship, and ecological harmony.