A riding tournament in Munich was abruptly canceled following animal cruelty incidents. Six ponies were mistreated overnight, deeply distressing children and participants. Investigations are underway, with associations expressing shock and tightening security measures.
The riding tournament at the Olympia Equestrian Facility in Munich-Riem, part of the Bavarian selection for the 'Prize of the Best' for young riders, ended prematurely on Sunday. Overnight, six ponies in their stable were harmed: manes, tails, and partly crests were cut off, and several animals had their tongues tightly wrapped with rubber bands.
Wilfried Herkommer, former managing director of the Bavarian Riding and Driving Association, who was present, told the specialist portal 'equi pages': 'In the night, there was an incident in the stable where six ponies had their manes, tails, and partly crests cut off.' He added: 'Several horses had their tongues tightly wrapped with rubber bands.' Herkommer, whose granddaughter rode in the U21 tour, described the shock: 'The shock was great for everyone. The children were deeply disturbed. No one wanted to ride under these circumstances anymore. Everyone just wanted to go home.'
Herkommer suspects perpetrators knowledgeable about horses, possibly multiple: 'It is assumed that it was someone who knows about horses, because a non-horse person wouldn't just reach into a horse or pony's mouth.'
The German Equestrian Association expressed being 'deeply shocked.' Chairman Dennis Peiler said: 'We condemn this action in the strongest terms. The protection and well-being of the horses and ponies entrusted to us is our top priority.' Police have launched investigations, and the district veterinary office is involved.
The Bavarian Riding and Driving Association plans to tighten the security concept. Managing Director Thomas Schreder stated: 'We will do everything to make horses and horse friends feel as safe as possible.' A veterinarian estimates no long-term damage to the ponies; the focus is on the well-being of the children, ponies, and participants.
