Best possible measures to minimise heat effects on horses

2 August 2007

Horses competing in the Good Luck Beijing-HKSAR 10^th Anniversary Cup and the Olympic Games next year will be provided with the best possible facilities and measures to reduce the effects of the summer heat, according to two experts responsible for venue construction and veterinary services for the 2008 Olympic Games equestrian events.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club's Head of Racing Operations John Ridley said in a press briefing today (2 August) that those overseas horses that had already arrived in Hong Kong had settled well in the environment and their Team members were pleased with the facilities.  "Right from the start when we developed the construction plan, a key consideration was providing the very best equine accommodation, training and competition facilities for the horses," said Ridley.

"To provide a more comfortable environment, the Club has provided an air-conditioned indoor training arena.  This is the first-ever indoor Olympic equestrian training facility to be equipped with air conditioning.  Cooling stations have also been installed in all training and competition venues, to enable the horses to cool down quickly after vigorous activity.  In addition, all the new stables have both air conditioning to enhance ventilation and electric fans to give a breezing effect," Ridley explained.

Dr Christopher Riggs, seconded from the Club to the Hong Kong Equestrian Company as Veterinary Services Manager, confirmed that the very best veterinary service support would likewise be available to the horses during their stay in Hong Kong.

"The Equine Clinic located in the main stabling area is equipped with superb diagnostic equipment.  Each horse will be monitored closely, and its body temperature will be measured twice daily.

"All competitions have been scheduled for the morning or evening in order to minimise the effect of heat on the horses," added Dr Riggs.

A team of about 30 veterinarians and veterinarian assistants from both overseas and Hong Kong will provide the necessary veterinary services for the Good Luck Beijing-HKSAR 10^th Anniversary Cup scheduled for 11-13 August.