HSI defers new anti-doping regime

HORSE Sport Ireland (HSI) has had to defer the introduction of its anti-doping and medication regime, which was due to come into force on January 1.

It had called a Special General Meeting yesterday to ratify the new rules, on the basis its main affiliate, ShowjumpingIreland (SJI), would have signed off on them, but the SJI’s decision to cancel its last executive meeting ultimately resulted in the postponement of yesterday’s HSI gathering.

In addition, some SJI board members expressed disquiet at aspects of the rules, resulting in HSI scheduling a meeting last Monday to address concerns. It is believed the meeting resulted in a number of changes to the rules, and it is anticipated the absolute final draft will be agreed by the SJI executive on January 12.