What do Riders Want from an Arena Surface?

Abstract

IntroductionRider preference appears to be a large factor determining the selection of an arena surface. The negative reaction of the competitors to the surface used for the Olympic test event in 2011 was sufficient to initiate a change in the surface composition used for the Olympic equestrian events in 2012. The aim of this study was to quantify surface characteristics that riders perceive to be the most favoured in a training and competition venue.MethodsA survey was used to ask riders (n = 342) to describe characteristics that they liked about their favourite venue across Northern England. The two most popular surfaces (both well‐established wax, sand and fibre) were harrowed before being measured at several plots. An Orono Biomechanical Surface Tester and traction device were used to compare the functional properties of the two surfaces. The respondent's reasons for choosing their favourite venue were associated with specific surface measures including peak load, rebound timing and traction. A Mann‐Whitney U test was used to establish differences between venues.ResultsThe favourite venue was selected because the surface was not too deep or slippery and provided good support, spring and cushioning. The peak load (P = 0.002) and traction (P>0.001) were significantly higher on the favourite surface compared to the second favourite (18.99 kN vs.17.29 kN and 20 Nm vs.19 Nm respectively).ConclusionsHigher peak load values may be responsible for supporting a good performance and higher traction values could explain why riders felt that the surface was not ‘slippery’, although this may have negative effects on the horse. The results suggest there is potential to quantify rider preferences.Ethical Animal ResearchThe study was approved by an ethics committee at the University of Central Lancashire (reference number: BuSH 057). Sources of funding: A student internship was awarded by the University of Central Lancashire. Competing interests: none.