Knowledge of Anti-Doping Regulations in Equestrian Sports: The FEI Supports Grooms Who Are Members of the International Grooms Association (IGA)
FEI and IGA Develop Anti-Doping Course for Horse Caretakers
from Jan Tönjes 
The International Grooms Association and the FEI plan to train grooms and groomswomen on anti-doping measures. Photo: IGA The new program was prompted by the results of an IGA survey of support staff in elite sports. According to the survey, about 80 percent of those surveyed had not yet received any formal anti-doping training. Even among those who had already been trained, there was widespread uncertainty regarding the applicable rules and the practical application of FEI regulations.
Hardly anyone knew anything about anti-doping measures
In addition, there have been anti-doping violations involving FEI horses in the past. These included cases attributed to unintentional contamination by stable staff. The IGA therefore sees a specific need for training. This training is not aimed at veterinarians or riders, but specifically at those who care for horses on a daily basis—groomers who handle feed, medications, grooming products, or equipment.
The course was developed in collaboration with the FEI, and its content has been approved by the International Equestrian Federation. It covers the fundamentals of the FEI’s“Clean Sport”program, potential sources of contamination, and the responsibilities of grooms and groomswomen in day-to-day stable operations and at competitions. Upon successful completion, participants will receive an official certificate.
“International equestrian sport relies on the professionalism and expertise of grooms and groomswomen,” says FEI Sports Director Áine Power. The goal of this new initiative is to help improve knowledge of anti-doping regulations at all levels.
The course is open to all IGA members who work with FEI horses or who would like to work at this level in the future. The course is initially being offered in English via the FEI Campus; translations into German, French, and Spanish are expected to follow shortly.
To reach as many participants as possible, the FEI will cover the annual IGA membership fee of 15 euros, provided that the course is successfully completed within 14 days of joining.
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