The increasing costs for riders and organizers are once again causing tensions. A unified front of riders is questioning the additional expenses imposed by organizations. Meanwhile, various organizers find themselves in a difficult situation... the demands of the riders are growing, organizing costs are getting higher, and profit margins are shrinking. It has become almost impossible to host exclusive events, and that is detrimental to the sport!
Recently, it has once again become evident that the increasing costs of participating in (inter)national competitions are under pressure. On the other hand, the demands of the participants remain extremely high, putting organizations under pressure. "It seems to be an unsustainable situation, especially for one-time organizations. There needs to be a consensus found between the high demands of the participants, the FEI requirements, imposed costs, and the margins of the organizations," they say. "It is too simplistic to point fingers at just one party!"
Sports must be self-sufficient.
The major problem nowadays is that the sport is no longer self-sufficient. At various levels of the sport, it is the hospitality and/or event sponsorship that should ensure a positive balance. This puts pressure on organizations and sports-related expenses. "Furthermore, it is noticeable that some organizations place the wrong focus. Take, for instance, an international competition. VIPs and sponsors are important, but there is no entertainment without the riders. They go where we want them to," a groom tells our editorial team. "So, it's equally important to treat the grooms and horses well."
"If the sport were already self-sufficient, then the focus of the balance between specific costs and revenue could remain entirely within the sport," responds an organizer. "Today, the imposed costs for the sport are simply exorbitant. You already need two veterinarians at a CSI event. There are more than a handful of stewards, and then there are the many judges that we not only have to pay per day but also provide with accommodation and meals. Add to that the cost of stables, obstacle materials, and arena personnel, as well as prize money, and the balance is quickly made... at no time is the sport self-sufficient, and hospitality or sponsorship must contribute to covering the expenses."
In an open question, it is necessary to explore how the different parties can collaborate to find a new balance for the benefit of the sport...
More in the next month's edition of JUMP-OFF.