150 Years Old Equestrian Event Liable to Be Canceled as Animal Activists Raise Concern About Ill-Effects of “Extreme” Weather Conditions on Horses

Equestrian sports have been a part of human civilizations since ancient times. Horses have been used for sports and games worldwide in various periods. In fact, several towns and villages have their own unique equestrian games and events, such as the town of Pinedo. However, this small village may have to discontinue its 150-year-old tradition.

An animal rights group is asking authorities to put an end to the traditional equestrian racing event. The group cites the extreme weather conditions that may not bode well for the horses. This is sad news for many as Pinedo is the last Valencian town that practices this century-and-a-half-old tradition.

The traditional equestrian game called Correguda de Joies

Pinedo is a small beach town located in Valencia, Spain. The townspeople hold the traditional equestrian event of Correguda de Joies every year. The game involves riding on horseback without the assistance of a saddle. The event is carried out for four days, and riders go against one another in knockout duels and run a course of 700 meters. The winner of the competition is awarded a joia, which is a silk scarf with a laurel wreath. The competition is very popular. One can see people competing on horseback on the soft white sand of the Pinedo de Valencia beach. However, the equestrian event is at risk of being canceled due to increasing demands from an animal rights group.

The National Association for the Protection and Well-being of Animals (ANPBA) is urging authorities to cancel the event. The association is citing intense heatwaves as the basis for their demand. ANPBA asserts that due to climate change, temperatures in August may reach an all-time high. The body lists the lengthening of heat waves as the cause of these increased temperatures, which is a significant risk for horses. The organization argues that this would compel horses to compete in extreme conditions that could seriously impact their health. Reportedly, July 2023 has surpassed all previous months in history to become the hottest month of all time.

Health risk for horses due to intense heat exposure.

The World Meteorological Organization released a notification declaring July 2023 as the hottest month ever recorded. The issue of climate change and its consequences has been manifesting for quite some time now. Given these circumstances, the participation of horses in a four-day event may not be safe. However, discontinuing such an old tradition solely due to this concern may not be the ideal solution.

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The equestrian racing industry is currently under a cloud of concern. Equestrian racetracks and centers all around are facing significant scrutiny and criticism due to a series of equine deaths. While the Saratoga racetrack is under scrutiny in the East, the Del Mar racetrack has become the focal point of protests in the West. Even though the number of equine deaths has decreased compared to previous years, the occurrence of multiple horse deaths within a short span of time has concentrated negative attention on horse racing all at once.

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