Waregem Koerse implements safety measures to better protect racing horses

The organisers of the historic horse race Waregem Koerse are implementing safety measures to better protect horses participating in future editions, the cabinet of Flemish Animal Welfare minister Ben Weyts confirmed on Thursday. The changes come after two horses died during last year's event.

Waregem Koerse, which has been held for over 175 years, hosts Belgium’s largest annual horse race. While organisers strive to run the event safely and with animal welfare in mind, accidents have occurred, including fatalities.

At the most recent edition in September, one racehorse fell and suffered a pelvic fracture, after which it was put to sleep. Another horse died of heart failure. The deaths sparked public outrage, with animal rights organisation GAIA calling the races too hard on the horses and the course too dangerous.

Following the deadly incidents, various bodies reviewed the race course and entry requirements. The obstacles under particular scrutiny were the Irish Verge, a raised platform 1.3 metres high and 18.5 metres wide, and the Open Ditch, which includes a 1.5-metre-high hedge spanning 4.5 metres.

New obstacles

To increase the safety of participating horses, the organisation has now decided to replace the Irish Verge with a hedge, allowing horses to jump over it without having to clear the full height. The Open Ditch will be replaced by a gradually ascending surface with a smaller jump.

Additionally, the minimum age for participating horses in the three steeplechase races will rise from four to five years. The maximum number of horses per race, meanwhile, will be reduced from 14 to 12, Weyts' cabinet confirmed.

“It is our duty to prevent avoidable animal suffering”

“I am convinced that spectators at Waregem Koerse, most of whom are also horse lovers, will welcome these changes,” said minister Weyts. “I support these interventions and will ensure they are enforced. It is our duty to prevent avoidable animal suffering.”

However, animal rights group Gaia expressed scepticism, warning that the measures may not be enough. The organisation stated that if another serious incident occurs, “the only possible conclusion will be that steeplechases should be abolished.”

^{#FlandersNewsService | © BELGA PHOTO KURT DESPLENTER}

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