Factors influencing showjumping performance

There has been relatively little objective investigation of factors that affect performance in showjumping horses. At international level, these animals perform impressive feats of athleticism and the appropriateness of their preparation is crucial in terms of both performance and, more importantly, their health and longevity. In a multi-national survey of showjumping horses, it was found that 6% of training and competing days were lost for health reasons, 78% of which comprised orthopaedic conditions, mostly injuries considered to be related to overuse [1]. A number of sites are commonly involved in orthopaedic disorders in the showjumping horse including the foot, forelimb flexor tendons, suspensory ligaments, various limb joints and the back. Respiratory disease occurs frequently in all types of competition horses. It may reduce stamina and with the early onset of fatigue, injury becomes more likely. Gastric ulcers occur in a high proportion of competition horses. Whilst they are usually sub-clinical, they may nevertheless have adverse effects on both welfare and performance. Prompt identification of injury and disease, aided by diligent monitoring, permits early therapeutic intervention. […]