WITH the Dublin Horse Show pony qualifiers kicking off this weekend, questions have been raised if the five ponies that failed to measure in at the correct height at the CSIOP show in Fontainebleau are eligible to compete in national competitions.

There have been suggestions that the measuring that is stamped on the ponies’ passports at the official SJI measuring venues stands for national competitions. Others have argued that the ponies in question should be remeasured on Irish soil.

Showjumping Ireland (SJI) were not in a position to comment on the rules in this situation, and responded to say the pony committee, which consists of five members, would have to agree on a collective response when they meet on Tuesday, May 8th next.

Although there is no specific rule in the SJI rule book relating to this specific issue, page 27 (dated 2012-2018) states: “It is not possible to provide for every conceivable eventuality in these rules. If there is no rule to deal specifically with a particular circumstance, or if the literal interpretation of the pertinent rule would result in obvious injustice, a reference may be made fo the FEI rules. Ultimately it is the duty of those responsible to make a decision based on common sense and fair play, thus reflecting as closely as possible the intention of these rules.”

An FEI spokesperson said: “As appeals are part of a legal process, the FEI cannot discuss further. This is an ongoing procedure.”

A spokesperson for Horse Sport Ireland said the national matter is down to the SJI. “Ponies having measured out at an FEI international competition are not permitted to compete in the event and any future FEI International pony events until an appeal measurement has been carried out and the pony has measured in.

“Accordingly, where ponies are deemed Measured Out – Pending Appeal, Horse Sport Ireland, the Irish National Federation, may not enter such categorised ponies in any subsequent FEI international events to ensure compliance with the FEI Veterinary Regulations, as stated above. With regard to the national circuit, Showjumping Ireland is the governing body of show jumping in Ireland, formulating the rules and codes of practice under which all affiliated competitions are held. Horse Sport Ireland cannot comment with regard to Showjumping Ireland rules as these are exclusively a matter for Showjumping Ireland.”