Proposed ban on spurs in Alameda County

Alameda County in California is planning to vote on a ban on the use of spurs in any competition or exhibition. While this is being pushed by the anti-rodeo crowd, the language as written applies to any equestrian event, from pony club to FEI dressage. If you’re local, educate your board of supervisors on the differences between bareback broncs and show horses, and remind them that we already have serious rules regarding drawing blood.

1 Like

Do you have a link?

The rodeo circuits have rules regarding drawing blood for the most part too.

1 Like

So that would mean no FEI level dressage tests

2 Likes

Also curious about a link. I’m local (different bay area county) and haven’t heard any talk of this. Show-wise that would impact dressage shows in Dublin and Livermore, and probably the odd schooling show elsewhere. Not sure if pony riders at the racetrack tend to use spurs, but Golden Gate Fields is in Alameda Co. too and I imagine racing would be included in “equestrian events.”

The Facebook link is useless. This link might be more useful:

In that link, Section 50, attachment 50

Thanks for those links. :+1: In the link to Section 50, attachment 50, it seems to apply to rodeos. It even names certain venues and rodeo events.

In general, it seems like they’re targeting smaller rodeos where perhaps there’s less oversight. They also want to eliminate contests like mutton busting and wild cow milking, plus certain types of bucking straps. Personally, I don’t see a connection to banning spurs for equestrian competitions, especially those that already have their own rules and standards for spur use.

But maybe I’m wrong and just not reading it correctly.

2 Likes

I read it the same way.

2 Likes