We reported in November that Mary King was handed a yellow card for “dangerous riding” on cross country at Le Lions d’Angers, where the Young Event Horse Championships are held. As per FEI regulations, two yellow cards received in a 12-month period constitutes a suspension, and unfortunately Mary received another yellow card at Bramham, again for dangerous riding. Mary received the card while competing MSH King Joules in the CCI3*. Mary has written the following on her blog:
I have some very embarrassing news and felt I should let you know before you read it in the press. I received a yellow card at Bramham Horse Trials last weekend … I was given one last year and if you receive 2 within a 12 month period you are suspended for 2 months which means I am unable to event from now until August 9th.
The horse I rode at Bramham was disappointingly strong and unruly across country. I pulled him up half way around the cross country course and retired after we had jumped the first part of a rail, ditch, rail combination. He dropped his back legs on the first rail and the frangible pin broke. It felt dangerous and neither of us were enjoying ourselves so I thought it best to stop before we had an accident. The ground jury have interviewed me and said I should have pulled up at the fence before. They said because I am a high profile rider/role model for younger riders I should have been more sensible, and I received a yellow card for dangerous riding. I was completely shocked and devastated.
I had a couple of younger horses doing some events during June and July, so Emily my daughter is going to ride them. I love my horses and love the sport, I am very sorry this has happened.
Mary will be able to resume competition on Aug. 9, but any suspension that is handed down comes as a tough pill to swallow. For a current list of FEI warnings issued in all disciplines, click here.