The International Olympic Committee must recognise that immediate change is needed and should drop equine competitions from future Olympic Games, animal advocacy group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals said on Friday.
"But values change and now is the time for the IOC to recognise that ... Our pressure is on the IOC. We wrote to it in August urging it to eliminate all equine events from the Games."The IOC did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Modern pentathlon has been an Olympic sport since 1912 featuring five events - fencing, swimming, equestrian show jumping, pistol shooting and cross-country running.FULLY COMMITTED
"Equestrian sport is based on the unique relationship between an athlete and a horse that is honed over many years, and it is this bond and mutual trust which allows the partnership to shine.