Blue Hors Stud in Denmark has decided to withdraw all its horses from dressage competition in order to support the country’s efforts to establish a new framework for horse welfare in the sport. This decision comes amidst a growing public scrutiny of dressage and new welfare legislation being introduced in Denmark, such as making nosebands optional and allowing bitless bridles at lower levels.
The Danish Riding Association’s new strategy “Together for Horse Welfare” aims to create clearer guidelines for the ethical use of horses in sport, focusing on better education and competition ratings. Blue Hors supports this initiative and has decided to pause its participation in dressage events for three months to assess progress in achieving a common understanding of horse ethics and sporting guidelines.
Owned by Danish billionaire Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen, Blue Hors Stud has been instrumental in the success of Denmark’s top dressage riders and Olympic horses. The farm stands six stallions, including Don Schufro and Zack, and will continue its daily activities while temporarily withdrawing from competition.