Tag Archives: EHV-1

FEI

FEI Extends Shutdown of International Events in Mainland Europe Due to EHV-1 Outbreak

Leave a comment

The FEI has imposed a further two-week extension of the shutdown of all international events in mainland Europe until 11 April 2021 due to the ongoing outbreak of the neurological form of Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1). The FEI had previously announced a 28-day shutdown on 1 March 2021.

The move, which aims to minimise the further spread of the very aggressive strain of the virus, was unanimously approved at an emergency FEI Executive Board meeting. The extended lockdown applies to all FEI disciplines.

The decision is based on detailed scientific risk assessment conducted by world leading epidemiologist Dr Richard Newton and the FEI Veterinary Department.

The extended lockdown applies to all countries that have international scheduled events in the period to 11 April – Austria, Belgium, Spain, Estonia, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, and Sweden. However, the FEI again strongly recommends that all National Federations in mainland Europe cancel their national events in order to minimise horse movement.

The shutdown will mean the cancellation of the FEI World Cup™ Finals for the second consecutive year following the loss of the 2020 Finals in Las Vegas (USA) to the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Longines FEI Jumping World Cup™ Final and the FEI Dressage World Cup™ Final were scheduled to be held in Gothenburg (SWE) from 31 March to 4 April 2021.

“The extension of the lockdown is difficult for everyone, and the loss of the FEI World Cup Finals for a second year is particularly devastating, especially for the qualified athletes and for our loyal Top Partner Longines,” FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez said. “We know how much work Tomas Torgersen and his incredible team in Gothenburg have put into organising the 2021 Finals, which would have been part of the 400th birthday anniversary celebrations for the city, so this is a desperately bitter blow.

“We cannot eradicate EHV as it is endemic in many countries, but we need to work together to minimise the transmission of this particular strain, which has already caused the death of 12 horses in Europe. All of the original in-contact horses from Valencia, Vejer de la Frontera, and Doha are already blocked on the FEI Database, but the whole community needs to be on the alert and monitoring their horses. We strongly urge all European-based FEI athletes to avoid travel with their horses during this prolonged shutdown, as travel is a very clear risk factor.

“Sadly, this additional lockdown is crucial to slow down the spread of the virus so that we can preserve the rest of the season, get our athletes and horses back competing safely, and allow as long a period as possible for those aiming for Tokyo to earn their Minimum Eligibility Requirements and confirmation results, and of course to prepare their horses for the Games.

“Nobody wants to see an outbreak like this ever again. There will be a comprehensive and fully transparent investigation into every aspect of this outbreak and the way it has been handled, and the findings will be published so that, together with our community, we can all learn from this.

“We will be putting in place enhanced protocols to allow for a safe return to play once this outbreak is under control, and we will advise our community on those well in advance of the resumption of international events, but the priority right now has to be the treatment of sick horses and getting healthy horses back to their home countries in a safe and biosecure way. We all need to focus on safeguarding not just FEI horses, but the wider European horse community.”

Work on identifying the gene sequencing of this strain of the virus is already underway, and the FEI is continuing to monitor the evolution of the virus through the FEI Veterinary Epidemiology Working Group, which was formalised this week. The Group is composed of world-leading EHV specialists, the FEI Veterinary Director, and FEI Senior Veterinary Advisor, supported by the Chair of the FEI Veterinary Committee. Reports and recommendations from this Group will be published on a weekly basis.

The FEI is also publishing daily updates on the dedicated EHV-1 hub.

Media contacts:

Grania Willis
Director Communications
grania.willis@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 42

Shannon Gibbons
Media Relations and Communications Manager
shannon.gibbons@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 46

Uncategorized

Negative Equine Herpes Virus Test Result for Horse Tested in Wellington

Leave a comment

Wellington, FL – March 10, 2021 – Equestrian Sport Productions (ESP) management announces that there has been a negative test result for Equine Herpes Virus on Wednesday, March 10, 2021, on a horse that was restricted from entering the FEI compound at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) show grounds for the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF). The horse was tested on its private farm using a rapid result test by its personal veterinarian on Tuesday, March 9, 2021, after it presented with a fever. The horse was not on PBIEC property.

Thanks to the biosecurity protocols put in place at PBIEC by ESP, “Horse A” was found at pre-check before entering the show grounds to have a fever of 103. The horse was not allowed access to FEI stabling and sent back to its home stable where it has been isolated.

A barn-mate of “Horse A” was removed from FEI stabling due to close contact. “Horse B” has not had a fever or any other symptoms and is also in isolated stabling at its home stable. All athletes that had horses stabled in the proximity of Horse B were notified and took extra biosecurity precautions.

It should be noted that the athlete of Horse A and B has a third “Horse C” that is currently stabled in the FEI compound. This horse competed last week in the WEF 8 CSIO competition. Management has had multiple conversations with the athlete regarding Horse C. The athlete has assured management Horse C was placed in a separate quarantine stable at the private farm after competing last week and had no contact with Horse A or B.

Along with the personal vet of Horse A and B, ESP management coordinated with the WEF Veterinary Delegate, FEI Lead Steward, FEI Foreign Steward, and Official Veterinarians Palm Beach Equine Clinic to closely monitor the situation. ESP will continue to announce any further information pertaining to EHV as it becomes available.

With this latest information, we urge all horse owners to adhere strictly to biosecurity protocols and note that restrictions are still in place at PBIEC. They are as follows:

  1. Anyone shipping horses into the PBIEC and Equestrian Village facilities will be required to sign a declaration stating that the horses entering the facility have not competed at other Florida venues outside of Wellington or been in close contact with horses that competed in other Florida venues outside of Wellington within ten (10) days prior to their arrival.
  2. Starting Monday, March 8, any horses shipping onto the property (both WEF and AGDF grounds) will require a health certificate or statement on official licensed veterinarian letterhead and must be dated by Veterinarian within seven (7) days of arriving.
  3. ESP will require all barns on PBIEC and Equestrian Village show grounds to maintain a temperature log with twice-daily temperatures recorded and recommend posting on each horse’s stall door. Random checks by approved veterinary staff may be implemented.
  4. ESP and USEF strongly recommend that equestrians do not ship horses throughout the state for the foreseeable future. In addition, we encourage you to cease any European imports you may have scheduled to Florida. We urge those with recently imported horses to isolate and monitor them for 10 days. Horses imported from Europe in the last 14 days and going forward will not be allowed into PBIEC or Equestrian Village show grounds.
  5. Any horse on the show grounds with a fever of unknown origin or of suspicious origin must be reported to ESP Management. It is always better to err on the side of safety. Isolation stalls will either be available on the grounds or at a local veterinary practice if the need arises.

It is our shared responsibility to keep our horses safe. Similar to the suggested protocols in place for humans due to COVID-19, we urge all equestrians to please remember and abide by the following biosecurity measures:

  • Take all horses’ temperatures daily and report any horse with a temperature above 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit or any signs of respiratory or neurological disease to your veterinarian and/or show management.
  • Take the temperature of all horses prior to shipping to WEF or AGDF, and do not bring any febrile horses to the show.
  • Avoid mixing of horses where possible; practice equine ‘social distancing’.
  • Ensure good hygiene and biosecurity at the show and your home farms.
  • Make sure your horses are currently vaccinated for influenza and EHV. Under no circumstances should a horse that has been vaccinated compete within 7 days.
  • You should be able to document your horse’s normal temperature before arrival. Please do not ship horses with elevated temperatures. It is recommended that you establish a log of temperatures taken at least twice daily. If there is an elevated temperature for more than a 24-hour period, please consult your local Veterinarian immediately.
  • Every effort should be made to minimize stress and commingling of horses shipped long distances. Extra hours on a horse van or moving from stable to stable is the fastest way to compromise your horses’ and your neighbor’s horses’ health.
  • Please take the time to review equine good hygiene practices and impress its importance to your grooms and barn managers in everyday care.

Further biosecurity protocols and additional resources can be found here:

United States Department of Agriculture Information on Equine Herpesvirus

American Association of Equine Practitioners FAQ on Equine Herpesvirus

United States Equestrian Federation Biosecurity Measures for Horses at Home and at Competitions

ESP has longstanding protocols to manage such events and will provide isolation facilities if and as required. Experience has taught us that early identification is key when dealing with disease outbreaks, and this requires cooperation from everyone within the community.

If you have any questions or concerns about your horse’s health, please contact our veterinary partners: Palm Beach Equine Clinic at 561-793-1599.

For more information, please visit www.PBIEC.com.

Uncategorized

PBIEC to Amend New Horse Show Entry Restriction

Leave a comment

Wellington, FL – March 6, 2021 – Equestrian Sport Productions (ESP) is amending one measure of the restrictions that were put in place on March 3, 2021, at Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) for the Winter Equestrian Festival and Adequan® Global Dressage Festival.

Previously, ESP was not accepting any new entries to WEF and AGDF that had not previously shown this year.

Management has consulted with USEF, the State of Florida Department of Agriculture Division of Animal Industry, the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), and WEF/AGDF Official Veterinarians, Palm Beach Equine Clinic, to adjust this measure.

As of Monday, March 8, new horse show entries will be allowed if:

  1. The horse has not showed outside of Wellington venues in the last 10 days.
  2. The horse has not been exposed to horses that have competed at venues outside of Wellington.

Please note that all other restrictions are still in place and are as follows:

  1. Anyone shipping horses into the PBIEC and Equestrian Village facilities will be required to sign a declaration stating that the horses entering the facility have not competed at other Florida venues outside of Wellington or been in close contact with horses that competed in other Florida venues outside of Wellington within ten (10) days prior to their arrival.
  2. Starting Monday, March 8, any horses shipping onto the property (both WEF and AGDF grounds) will require a health certificate or statement on official licensed veterinarian letterhead and must be dated by Veterinarian within seven (7) days of arriving.
  3. ESP will require all barns on PBIEC and Equestrian Village show grounds to maintain a temperature log with twice-daily temperatures recorded and recommend posting on each horse’s stall door. Random checks by approved veterinary staff may be implemented.
  4. ESP and USEF strongly recommend that equestrians do not ship horses throughout the state for the foreseeable future. In addition, we encourage you to cease any European imports you may have scheduled to Florida. We urge those with recently imported horses to isolate and monitor them for 10 days. Horses imported from Europe in the last 14 days and going forward will not be allowed into PBIEC or Equestrian Village show grounds.
  5. Any horse on the show grounds with a fever of unknown origin or of suspicious origin must be reported to ESP Management. It is always better to err on the side of safety. Isolation stalls will either be available on the grounds or at a local veterinary practice if the need arises.

It is our shared responsibility to keep our horses safe. Similar to the suggested protocols in place for humans due to COVID-19, we urge all equestrians to please remember and abide by the following biosecurity measures:

  • Take all horses’ temperatures daily and report any horse with a temperature above 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit or any signs of respiratory or neurological disease to your veterinarian and/or show management
  • Take the temperature of all horses prior to shipping to WEF or AGDF, and do not bring any febrile horses to the show.
  • Avoid mixing of horses where possible; practice equine ‘social distancing’.
  • Ensure good hygiene and biosecurity at the show and your home farms.
  • Make sure your horses are currently vaccinated for influenza and EHV. Under no circumstances should a horse that has been vaccinated compete within 7 days.
  • You should be able to document your horse’s normal temperature before arrival. Please do not ship horses with elevated temperatures. It is recommended that you establish a log of temperatures taken at least twice daily. If there is an elevated temperature for more than a 24-hour period, please consult your local Veterinarian immediately.
  • Every effort should be made to minimize stress and commingling of horses shipped long distances. Extra hours on a horse van or moving from stable to stable is the fastest way to compromise your horses’ and your neighbor’s horses’ health.
  • Please take the time to review equine good hygiene practices and impress its importance to your grooms and barn managers in everyday care.

Further biosecurity protocols and additional resources can be found here:

United States Department of Agriculture Information on Equine Herpesvirus

American Association of Equine Practitioners FAQ on Equine Herpesvirus

United States Equestrian Federation Biosecurity Measures for Horses at Home and at Competitions

ESP has longstanding protocols to manage such events and will provide isolation facilities if and as required. Experience has taught us that early identification is key when dealing with disease outbreaks, and this requires cooperation from everyone within the community.

If you have any questions or concerns about your horse’s health, please contact our veterinary partners: Palm Beach Equine Clinic at 561-793-1599.

For more information, please visit www.PBIEC.com.

Show Jumping, Wellington Turf Tour

Wilhelm Genn Jumps on Home Field Advantage to Win $3,000 1.30m Rising Star Classic

Leave a comment

Wilhelm Genn and Van Gogh.

Wellington, FL (March 5, 2021) – World Cup Champion Wilhelm Genn of Germany jumped to victory on Wednesday aboard Van Gogh, capitalizing on a home field advantage to top The Ridge at Wellington’s Turf Tour 9 $3,000 1.30m Grand Prix. The storied Deutsch rider, along with his two sons and barn full of clients, are stabling for the 2021 Florida winter season at The Ridge’s home farm and the site of the 9th week of Turf Tour competition (March 3-5).

It was a Genn family affair in the Rising Star as Wilhelm’s son Ryan finishing second aboard VDL Gerinus T. Genn Sr. and Van Gogh jumped off in 45.773, while Genn Jr. finished on 46.752. England’s Jaime Marsh and My Jewel Magic Touch rounded out the top 3 with a time of 47.896.

A Letter from The Ridge Regarding Recent EHV-1 Cases in Florida

Dear Riders, Trainers, & Exhibitors,

We have seen the recent press release issued from World Equestrian Center regarding cases of Equine Herpes Virus in Europe and Ocala, and their Bio Security changes. Please note, while likely unintentional, they list The Ridge shows, which have nothing to do with WEC. That being said, The Ridge has had NO cases of EHV, and if anyone inferred that from the WEC press release, we hope this clarifies those points. In response to recent events, The Ridge has upped our bio-security measures, and is strictly enforcing “Safe Social Distancing” for both horses and humans, and will do everything in our power to keep our competitors safe.

Thank you for your support!

Nona Garson
Horse Show Manager
The Ridge at Wellington

For full results, visit www.HorseShowing.com.

For more info, visit www.RidgeShowJumping.com.

Classic Company

Gulf Coast Winter Classic Biosecurity Protocols Announced

Leave a comment

Due to the recent EHV case in Florida, the Gulf Coast Winter Classics are implementing enhanced protocols for our competitors effective immediately in order to protect our equine partners.

Please follow these Protocols to prevent an EHV Outbreak:

  • It is advised that all horses stabling on the Mississippi Gulf Coast Winter Classic show grounds at the Harrison County Fairgrounds arrive between 7 am and 6 pm. It if is necessary to arrive at any other time, you must check in with the night security officer.
  • All horses entering the show grounds must have current paper copies of their health documents/health certificates, Coggins test, vaccine records, and temperature log with them upon arrival as they will be checked by the Security Personnel at the entrance.
  • All horses entering the show grounds must have a temperature check upon unloading from their trailer. Any temperatures above 101 degrees must be reported immediately to the Show Veterinarian.
  • All horses on the show grounds must have their temperatures checked once a day and temperatures above 101 degrees must be reported immediately to the Show Veterinarian.
  • Please watch your horses for any signs or symptoms of EHV including fever, diarrhea, discharge from the nostrils, coughing, or an increased respiratory rate which may be signs of an infectious disease.
  • Any horse that is suspected by the Show Veterinarian to have an infectious disease will be immediately isolated.

We ask that everyone follow the above protocols to help us keep our horses safe. Please take time to review equine good hygiene practices. Please convey the importance of this to your equine caretakers for their daily routines.

The Gulf Coast Classic Company is dedicated to the health, welfare, and safety of all exhibitors both equine and human and strives to provide a safe and enjoyable show experience. Critical to that experience is maintaining healthy horses. Please continue to check the Gulf Coast Classic Company website for any additional and possibly mandatory requirements.

We will keep you all informed about the EHV situation and appreciate your cooperation in these trying times.

Uncategorized

PBIEC Update on EHV-1 Measures

Leave a comment

Wellington, FL – March 3, 2021 – In light of new information that Equestrian Sport Productions (ESP) received regarding a positive Equine Herpes Virus-1 case in the Ocala area, management is taking active measures to protect horses at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center (PBIEC) and Equestrian Village during the Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) and Adequan® Global Dressage Festival (AGDF). There are currently no reported cases of EHV-1 in Wellington.

The following announcements regarding biosecurity protocols and requirements are as follows:

  1. Due to this development, ESP will not be accepting entries from horses that have not previously shown this year at WEF and AGDF starting immediately on Wednesday, March 3, until further notice. Decisions regarding lifting this rule will be made following consultation with USEF, the State of Florida Department of Agriculture Division of Animal Industry, and WEF/AGDF Official Veterinarians, Palm Beach Equine Clinic.
  2. Although no known positive cases of horses have been identified in Wellington, ESP is attempting to control transmission of the EHV-1 virus by restricting access to the PBIEC and Equestrian Village showgrounds of horses from outside the immediate vicinity of Wellington.
    Following veterinary advice, anyone shipping horses into the PBIEC and Equestrian Village facilities will be required to sign a declaration stating that the horses entering the facility have not competed at other Florida venues or been in close contact with horses that competed in other Florida venues within ten (10) days prior to their arrival.
  3. Starting Monday, March 8, any horses shipping onto the property (both WEF and AGDF grounds) will require a health certificate or statement on official licensed veterinarian letterhead and must be dated by Veterinarian within seven (7) days of arriving (see number 6 below).
  4. ESP will require all barns on PBIEC and Equestrian Village show grounds to maintain a temperature log with twice-daily temperatures recorded and recommend posting on each horse’s stall door. Random checks by approved veterinary staff may be implemented.
  5. ESP and USEF strongly recommend that equestrians do not ship horses throughout the state for the foreseeable future. In addition, we encourage you to cease any European imports you may have scheduled to Florida. We urge those with recently imported horses to isolate and monitor them for 10 days. Horses imported from Europe in the last 14 days and going forward will not be allowed into PBIEC or Equestrian Village show grounds.
  6. A Statement of Health must be signed by a licensed veterinarian within 7 days of arrival at PBIEC, documenting that the horse has:
    a. Received regular and consistent vaccination against Equine Influenza and EHV-1/4 with most recent booster being within 180 days and not within 7 days (as per USEF GR 845). Under no circumstances should a horse that has been vaccinated compete within 7 days.
    b. Not shown symptoms of or been treated for EHV-1/4 within the past 28 days
    c. Not been at a facility under quarantine for EHV-1/4 or exposed to any horses showing symptoms of EHV-1/4 within the past 28 days
    d. Current vaccination against WNV, EEE, WEE, Tetanus, and Rabies is strongly recommended

Information on the current known positive EHV-1 case can be found here: https://equinediseasecc.org/alerts.

Given the seriousness of the EHV-1 outbreak in Europe (the case in Ocala is similar in nature but unrelated to the neurological strain of EHV-1 impacting Valencia, Spain and other European countries), which has unfortunately resulted in multiple horse deaths, ESP implores everyone to do their part in order to keep your own horses safe, as well as those of your fellow competitors.

Any horse on the show grounds with a fever of unknown origin or of suspicious origin must be reported to ESP Management. It is always better to err on the side of safety. Isolation stalls will either be available on the grounds or at a local veterinary practice if the need arises.

It is our shared responsibility to keep our horses safe. Similar to the suggested protocols in place for humans due to COVID-19, we urge all equestrians to please remember and abide by the following biosecurity measures:

  • Take all horses’ temperatures daily and report any horse with a temperature above 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit or any signs of respiratory or neurological disease to your veterinarian and/or show management
  • Take the temperature of all horses prior to shipping to WEF or AGDF, and do not bring any febrile horses to the show.
  • Avoid mixing of horses where possible; practice equine ‘social distancing’.
  • Ensure good hygiene and biosecurity at the show and your home farms.
  • Make sure your horses are currently vaccinated for influenza and EHV. Under no circumstances should a horse that has been vaccinated compete within 7 days.
  • You should be able to document your horse’s normal temperature before arrival. Please do not ship horses with elevated temperatures. It is recommended that you establish a log of temperatures taken at least twice daily. If there is an elevated temperature for more than a 24-hour period, please consult your local Veterinarian immediately.
  • Every effort should be made to minimize stress and commingling of horses shipped long distances. Extra hours on a horse van or moving from stable to stable is the fastest way to compromise your horses’ and your neighbor’s horses’ health.
  • Please take the time to review equine good hygiene practices and impress its importance to your grooms and barn managers in everyday care.

Further biosecurity protocols and additional resources can be found here:

United States Department of Agriculture Information on Equine Herpesvirus

American Association of Equine Practitioners FAQ on Equine Herpesvirus

United States Equestrian Federation Biosecurity Measures for Horses at Home and at Competitions

ESP has longstanding protocols to manage such events and will provide isolation facilities if and as required. Experience has taught us that early identification is key when dealing with disease outbreaks, and this requires cooperation from everyone within the community.

If you have any questions or concerns about your horse’s health, please contact our veterinary partners: Palm Beach Equine Clinic at 561-793-1599.

For more information, please visit www.PBIEC.com.

Uncategorized

Notice Regarding European Equine Herpes Virus Outbreak

Leave a comment

We have all seen the troubling news this week regarding the Equine Herpes Virus outbreak in Europe. We have no reports of any horses with EHV-1 in the Wellington area.

We would, however, like to remind competitors at the Winter Equestrian Festival and Global Dressage Festival that it is our shared responsibility to keep our horses safe. Please remember the following:

  • Take all horses’ temperature daily and report any horse with a temperature above 101.5oF or any signs of respiratory or neurological disease to your veterinarian and/or show management
  • Take the temperature of all horses prior to shipping to WEF or AGDF and do not bring any febrile horses to the show
  • Avoid mixing of horses where possible; practice equine ‘social distancing’
  • Ensure good hygiene and biosecurity at the show and your home farms
  • Make sure your horses are currently vaccinated for influenza and EHV

We have longstanding protocols to manage such events and will provide isolation facilities if and as required.  Experience has taught us that early identification is key when dealing with disease outbreaks and this requires co-operation from everyone within the community.

If you have any questions or concerns about your horse’s health, please contact our veterinary partners Palm Beach Equine Clinic at (561)-793-1599.

For more information, please visit www.PBIEC.com.

FEI

FEI Cancels European Mainland Events Due to EHV-1 (Neurological Form)

Leave a comment

The FEI has cancelled international events in 10 countries on the European mainland with immediate effect and until 28 March 2021 due to the rapid evolution of a very aggressive strain of the neurological form of Equine Herpes Virus (EHV-1), which originated in Valencia (ESP) and has already resulted in related outbreaks in at least three other countries in Europe.

This decision applies to all FEI disciplines, but in order to prevent huge numbers of horses simultaneously departing the Jumping Tours on the Iberian Peninsula, in Italy, and in Belgium that have been ongoing for a number of weeks, these specific Tours will be allowed to continue as individual “bubbles” on the condition that absolutely no new horses are allowed to enter the venues and no positive cases of EHV-1 are confirmed.

The Jumping Tour venues in Vejer de la Frontera (ESP), Vilamoura (POR), San Giovanni in Marignano (ITA), and Gorla Minore (ITA) will have stringent biosecurity protocols in place and additional FEI Veterinary Delegates onsite. Horses will only be permitted to leave these venues when they are in possession of an official health certificate from the local Veterinary Authorities. Any horses leaving these venues without this documentation will be blocked on the FEI Database. It is also illegal to transport a horse without an official health certificate.

Oliva Nova (ESP) had already advised the FEI that it has decided to cancel the rest of its scheduled competitions in the Mediterranean Equestrian Tour III. Opglabbeek (BEL) has also informed the FEI that it has cancelled its events in March.

A number of countries, including France, have already cancelled all their events to minimise transmission of the virus.

The decision, which covers events in France, Spain, Portugal, Belgium, Italy, Austria, Poland, Netherlands, Germany, and Slovakia, has been made in accordance with FEI General Regulations Article 112.3, which states: The Secretary General shall have the authority to remove any Competition and/or Event from the Calendar if justified circumstances relating to a Competition or the Event are established.

“This was not an easy decision to block events in mainland Europe, particularly after the major disruption to the FEI Calendar caused by the Covid-19 pandemic,” FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez said, “but this EHV-1 outbreak is probably the most serious we have had in Europe for many decades and our decision is based on clearly identified epidemiological risk factors.

“This strain of EHV-1 is particularly aggressive and has already caused equine fatalities and a very large number of severe clinical cases. We need to keep our horses safe.

“We are also aware that a large number of horses left the venue in Valencia without an official health certificate, meaning they had an unknown health status. Some horses were already sick, and the risk of transmission from these horses is a major concern.

“Cancelling these competitions in mainland Europe, with the exception of the ongoing Jumping Tours in the Iberian Peninsula and Italy, limits the number of horses travelling internationally and therefore reduces the likelihood of this very serious virus being transmitted on an increasingly wider scale. We also strongly recommend that the affected member Federations should also cancel their national events.

“We are very conscious of the fact that this is a very stressful and distressing time, and that this is potentially hugely disruptive for those athletes aiming for their Minimum Eligibility Requirements (MERs) or confirmation results for Tokyo, but we are looking at ways to alleviate that in order to assist athlete/horse combinations in getting their MERs or confirmation results once the events in mainland Europe are allowed to resume.”

The FEI is conscious that some athletes have already arrived on competition venues or are en route, and is directly contacting all impacted athletes entered in Events between now and 28 March 2021.

Previous FEI updates since the FEI was first notified of the EHV-1 outbreak on 20 February are available here. Please scroll down to the Updates from the FEI Veterinary Department section.

Media contacts:

Grania Willis
Director Communications
grania.willis@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 42

Shannon Gibbons
Media Relations and Communications Manager
shannon.gibbons@fei.org
+41 78 750 61 4a

Uncategorized

Updated Biosecurity Protocols for USET Foundation

Leave a comment

Gladstone, NJ – April 3, 2013 – In light of the recent EHV-1 (equine herpes virus) outbreak, the USET Foundation has announced updated biosecurity protocols for all horses entering the USET Foundation Hamilton Farm Facility. This protocol has been put in place under the advisement of our USET veterinarians to ensure the health and safety of all horses entering the facility as we strive to keep our environment available, safe and healthy for upcoming equestrian events.

Updated biosecurity protocols for USET Foundation include:

A current negative coggins test. It is strongly recommended that all horses be vaccinated for Equine EHV-1 (either modified live or killed vaccine) no sooner than 7 days prior and no later than 90 days prior to entering the USET Foundation. Most EHV-1 vaccines are only considered effective for 90 days. Check with your veterinarian about which vaccine you should use.

Any horses shipping into the USET Foundation will require a 48-hour health certificate or statement on official licensed veterinarian letterhead. All horses should be able to provide proof of vaccine, preferably labeled on the health certificate.

Document your horses’ normal temperature prior to arrival. PLEASE DO NOT SHIP HORSES WITH ELEVATED TEMPERATURES since this is usually an early and effective indicator of a problem.

The attached form will be required for all horses entering the facility. This form is to certify that none of the horses in your care have been in direct contact or stabled with any horses that have received a positive test for the EHV-1 virus or have been stabled at a quarantined facility. By signing this form you certify that you will continue to follow all biosecurity precautions set forth by the USET Foundation.

Click Here to Download the Form

At this time we will not be requiring temperature checks by on-site veterinarians upon arrival; however, again we urge you to practice routine temperature checks on your horses daily.

“We would like to thank everyone for their diligence in adhering to this important protocol so we can continue to make our facility available and keep your horses healthy,” said Executive Director, Bonnie Jenkins.

The United States Equestrian Team Foundation (www.uset.org) is the non-profit organization that supports the competition, training, coaching, travel and educational needs of America’s elite and developing international, high-performance horses and athletes in partnership with the United States Equestrian Federation.

For more information on the USET Foundation, please call (908) 234-1251, or visit USET ONLINE at www.uset.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12012 South Shore Blvd #105
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
PhelpsMediaGroup.com

Competitions, Hunter/Equitation, Show Jumping

Stadium Jumping Announces Updated Exhibitor Information for Tampa Equestrian Series

Leave a comment

Tampa, FL – March 13, 2013 – The Tampa Equestrian Series is pleased to announce that they have extended the closing date for entries and stall reservations following the news of the quarantine being lifted at HITS Ocala and other quarantined facilities. Riders and trainers that were uncertain about their showing plans may still contact Stadium Jumping to reserve stalls.

With the good news out of Ocala, Stadium Jumping has modified the requirements for horses entering the Bob Thomas Equestrian Center. Horses will be required to have a current health certificate or a certificate of veterinary inspection on a licensed veterinarian letterhead. Vaccinations must be up to date.

The Tampa Equestrian Series will strive hard to keep all its attending horses safe and healthy while they compete at the Bob Thomas Equestrian Center. Management will provide temperature charts to all exhibitors upon arrival with instructions on charting temperatures twice daily.

The two-week equestrian event will be held at the Bob Thomas Equestrian Center at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa, FL. The Tampa Equestrian Series also features the 41st Annual $200,000 Gene Mische American Invitational presented by G & C Farm, held under the lights at Raymond James Stadium on April 6, 2013. The world’s top equestrians will come together for Tampa Equestrian Series’ two weeks of competition, held from March 27 – April 6, 2013, to vie for the winning titles at this prestigious event.

To reserve stalls, please contact:
Michael Morrissey
941-915-3449
Michael.Morrissey@StadiumJumping.com

The Tampa Equestrian Series will kick off its two weeks of competition with the Tampa Bay Classic, which is scheduled for March 27-31, 2013. It will include the $25,000 Tampa Bay Welcome Stake on Friday, March 29, and the $35,000 Grand Prix of Tampa on Sunday, March 31. The ‘AA’-rated hunters will also be featured with divisions for professionals, juniors, and amateur-owners.

The Tournament of Champions is next, and will be held April 2-6, 2013. The $10,000 American Invitational Stake Class will be held on Thursday, April 5. The 41st $200,000 Gene Mische American Invitational, presented by G&C Farm, which will take place on Saturday, April 6, 2013 at Tampa’s Raymond James Stadium. America’s “Super Bowl of Show Jumping” is a historic event, which brings together the top horse and rider combinations in the world. Invitations for the event are extended to the top thirty equestrians on the USEF National Computer Ranking List, plus past and present Olympians and other top invitees.

Annually, this event showcases exhilarating equine power, amazing speed and agility, and equestrian excellence at the home of the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The day is filled with extraordinary entertainment and activities for the entire family to enjoy.

The Mane Event Kick-Off Party will start at 4:00pm in Lot 5 of Raymond James Stadium with great fun for kids of all ages. There will be face painting and a Horseless Horse Show presented by JustWorld International, as well as autograph and photo opportunities. The gates open at 6:00 pm. with a traditional course walk for the public. The Opening Ceremonies get underway at 7:00 p.m. with the Parade of Tampa Equestrian Festival Series Champions and a special tribute to “Our Heroes.” The first horse will show over the course beginning at 8:00 p.m. as they compete for the winning honors.

Tickets for the Saturday night spectacular are on sale now, online at: www.stadiumjumping.com. Ticket prices $30, $25, $15, Group Discounts for 10 or more persons.

For more information on Stadium Jumping, Inc. and the 2013 Tampa Equestrian Series, please call (941) 744-5465 or please visit www.stadiumjumping.com.

For accurate and up to date information on EHV-1 in Florida, go to the State of Florida Department of Agriculture Division of Animal Industry website at http://www.freshfromflorida.com/ai/pdf/EHVWebsiteUpdate.pdf.

The Tampa Equestrian Series and the 41st Annual $200,000 American Invitational Fast Facts

WHAT: Two-week hunter/jumper horse show circuit produced by Stadium Jumping, Inc. and the 41st Annual $200,000 American Invitational presented by G&C Farm, which features the world’s best equestrian athletes. Information is available online at www.stadiumjumping.com.

WHERE:
Tampa Equestrian Series:
Bob Thomas Equestrian Center at the Florida State Fairgrounds
4800 North US Highway 301
Tampa, FL 33680
www.stadiumjumping.com

41st Annual $200,000 Gene Mische American Invitational:
Raymond James Stadium
4201 North Dale Mabry Highway
Tampa, FL 33607
www.raymondjamesstadium.com

WHEN: Daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tampa Classic – March 27-31, 2013
Tournament of Champions – April 2-6, 2013
41st Annual $200,000 Gene Mische American Invitational CSI 3* – April 6, 2013, 7 p.m.

HIGHLIGHTS:
Thursday, March 28: $25,000 Tampa Bay Welcome Stake
Sunday, March 31: $35,000 Grand Prix of Tampa
Thursday, April 4: $10,000 American Invitational Stake
Saturday, April 6, 7 p.m.: 41st Annual $200,000 Gene Mische American Invitational CSI 3*, presented by G&C Farm.

American Invitational Highlights:
To kick off the evening activities, the public is invited to participate in the traditional American invitational course walk. This is an opportunity for spectators to marvel at the size and breadth of the jumps equestrians will navigate their horses over.

Sponsorship and Tickets:
Corporate and individual sponsors may participate at any level. Tickets are $15-$30. Senior citizens, active duty members, and group discounts are available. For more information on sponsorship levels or to purchase tickets, please call 1.800.237.8924.

About the American Invitational:
The 41st annual American Invitational, one of the world’s richest equestrian show jumping competitions, has been held at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida since 1971.The Invitational is the only major equestrian competition to be held in a NFL football stadium.

Directions:

From Tampa or St. Pete/Clearwater via I-275 to I-4 Eastbound
Orient Rd. Entrance Gate: From I-4 Eastbound only, take Exit #6 for Orient Rd. and turn right off the ramp. There will be a sign for the Fairgrounds entrance immediately on the left-hand side. Check in at the Security Guard gate for entry.

From Lakeland/Orlando area via I-4 Westbound
Orient Rd. Entrance Gate: Travel on I-4 West toward Tampa to Exit #7 toward US-92 W / HILLSBOROUGH AVE and merge onto E. HILLSBOROUGH AVE. Proceed to the light at Orient Road and turn left. There will be a sign for the Fairgrounds entrance on the left-hand side. Check in at the Security Guard gate for entry.

Traveling from I-75 North/South (from Ocala/Sarasota area)
Orient Rd. Entrance Gate: Traveling north on I-75, take Exit #260 (B) and merge LEFT onto DR MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD (aka SR-574 West). Traveling south on I-75, take Exit #260 and merge RIGHT onto DR MARTIN LUTHER KING JR BLVD. Go west for 2.5 miles and pass the light at U.S. Hwy. 301. Keep proceeding on MLK, Jr. Blvd. to the next light which is ORIENT RD. Make a right at Orient Road. There will be a sign for the Fairgrounds entrance on the right-hand side. Check in at the Security Guard gate for entry.

THE FACILITY:
Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, FL
Outdoor Stadium Arena 150′ x 360′ Bermuda sod grass

HOTELS:
Hilton Garden Inn
10309 Highland Manor Drive
Tampa, FL
(813) 626-6700

La Quinta Inn East Fairgrounds
4811 U.S. 301 North
Tampa, FL
(813) 623-3321
(800) 642-4271

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – Tampa
5223 North Orient Road (next to showgrounds)
Tampa, FL
(813) 627-7625

SpringHill Suites
4835 W. Cypress Street
Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 639-9600
(888) 236-2427

STADIUM JUMPING INC.: Corporate Office
1301 Sixth Ave. West, Suite 406
Bradenton, FL 34205
Tel: 941-744-5465
Fax: 941-744-0874

MEDIA CONTACT:
Phelps Media Group, Inc.
12230 Forest Hill Blvd.
Suite 214
Wellington, FL 33414
561-753-3389 (phone)
561-753-3386 (fax)
pmginfo@phelpsmediagroup.com
http://www.phelpsmediagroup.com

April Wehle, Stadium Jumping, Inc.
561.459.9259
email: aprilw@stadiumjumping.com