"Despite several attempts at dialogue and mediation, the current show jumping committee has been unwilling to cooperate, which means that we are simply not making progress in our work," says Sandra Ruuda, chairwoman of the Swedish Equestrian Federation, in a press release.
Just over a month ago, the federation decided to introduce a 13-year age limit for participation in international competitions, national championships and national series. The change, which will be implemented by 2029, was supported by Swedish world stars such as Peder Fredricson, Henrik von Eckermann and Rolf-Göran Bengtsson. Among other things, it was said that the so-called B-pony years "constitute an important and natural part of children's development in equestrian sports".
The federation's now-fired show jumping committee also harshly criticized the decision, saying that they were not at all convinced by it.
The Swedish Equestrian Federation said it had taken note of the criticism and admitted that it could have handled both internal buy-in and communication better.
"At the same time, the decision is strategic and has great potential to influence frameworks and content," says Sandra Ruuda.
