Questions and Answers.

Dear members,

In January 2021 the IJOC organized two online educational seminars. Below please you can find answers of the questions which were asked during the seminars.

Frances Hesketh-Jones

FEI Honorary
Steward General, Jumping

  • With so many level 2 stewards now becoming level 3 and with a lack of speaking or understanding English – How will CS handle issues if they have lack of English? Also, as level 3 they can be appointed FS how will they manage with NO English?

    A: In due course, all FEI Officials will be required to take the FEI-mandated English assessment in order to ascertain whether they possess the language skills appropriate to their FEI level and role as outlined in the Jumping Officials Education System. Currently, this English assessment is a only a requirement prior to being accepted to participate in an FEI transfer-up course.

    The FEI Jumping Department endeavours to appoint officials with the necessary language skills as Foreign Stewards by drawing on either the result of the English assessment if this has been undertaken, or on the information provided by the official themselves that is entered into the FEI database.

    If a Chief Steward becomes aware that the appointed Foreign Steward is lacking in the English language skill required to the extent they struggle significantly with
    communicating efficiently with team members, other officials or athletes and their entourages, this should be mentioned in the Chief Steward’s report if there is one, or, after informing the Foreign Judge of this failing, in the Foreign Judge’s report as this will allow the Jumping Department to take the appropriate steps before deciding on subsequent appointments to that role.

  • Why isn’t it written in the stewards manual regarding alcohol inside the FEI restricted area. CS have problems with grooms drinking in stables.

    A: The consumption of alcohol in the stable area does not fall under the same health and safety risks as smoking in the stables. If an Organising Committee feels that forbidding alcohol would be a reasonable requirement for their event, they should include it in the event schedule as this would then allow enforcement. If, as a Chief Steward, you feel that there is justification for a similar requirement, you should discuss this with the OC before the draft schedule is submitted to the NF/FEI for approval.

  • Can the “Circle-X” bridle be used in combination with a bit?

    A: There is no reason to prevent its use in combination with a bit, even though this would presumably somewhat defeat the purpose of using a bitless bridle.

  • Is non-abrasive synthetic material also sheepskin?

    A: Yes

  • If the fastener is stud type or hook with one strap single shell or double shell the strap is minimum 2.5. or single shell minimum 5cm?

    A: Please refer to the table in the Jumping Stewards Manual Annex for the details on all straps for all types of hind boots.

  • Are the socks under hind boots permitted in all categories, including young horses?

    A: Yes, please refer to most recent update of the Jumping Stewards Manual Annex where all of this is clarified

  • Are circulation socks allowed under hind boots, if they are not based on compression?

    A: The circulation socks illustrated in the linked website appear to be recommended for post-exercise therapy and are not for protection, which is the only purpose of the pull-on socks that may be used under boots on all legs. As such, they should not be used while the horse is training.

Frank Spadinger

FEI Director
Education & Officials

  • Is there a plan regarding how often a promotion course will be organised per level?

    A: National Federations apply for Transfer Up and Maintenance Courses to serve the need of their OCs and Officials. The FEI works closely together with the IJOC to solve regional demands.

  • Why is English assessment only given to top officials?

    A: In 2020 the “Top Officials” have been evaluated to guarantee that they have the appropriate Level of English to accomplish their role at major events. From now on all applicants of Transfer Up courses will do the English proficiency assessment since it is a requirement. The result of the English proficiency test will be recorded in FEI Database and the test will not have to be repeated if the Level is sufficient.

  • How long can we be on the on hold list?

    A: Officials who have not passed the CES are on hold until the 15 December the following year to give enough possibility to attend an In-Person Course.

    Officials of Group A are on hold after the 31 March and if they have not attempted the CES of the year their function is closed (End Date 14 December of the year).

  • Pakistan does not hold FEI level events. Therefore, developing as a judge and to gain experience is very hard. Can this be considered when making appointments?

    A: The FEI appointments are done according to the FEI Jumping Rules and mainly concern major events. The FEI understands that it is hard to gain experience and supports Officials through the exchange program.

  • Younger officials that can take promotion courses are overtaking Older L1 stewards unable to take promotion courses, despite having experience and skills. Very frustrating for senior officials!

    A: The FEI does not consider age as a criteria. All Officials have to fulfil the same requirements according to the Jumping Education System which is competency based.