Competitors in equestrian sport, at MEF-sanctioned events, must treat everyone (coaches, other athletes, officials, professionals, parents, employees) in a fair, impartial and respectful manner. Athletes affiliated with the MEF must bear in mind that their behaviour impacts the reputation of equestrian sport in Malta and must endeavour to act in a responsible manner, putting the welfare of the horse first, at all times, in accordance with the the Code of Conduct for the Welfare of the Horse, whether in person or on social media.  Athletes must comply with all the provisions of this code.

Responsibilities

Athletes must: 

·      Comply with the generally biding acts of the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) including, General Regulations and Sport Rules governing the participation in training and competition activities at all levels in the field of equestrian sport, the regulatory documents of the MEF and the principles set out in the European Charter for Sport and this Code. Where the MEF rules differ from international rules, the MEF rules shall prevail.

·      Treat coaches, managers, teammates, and opponents with respect, avoiding insults, violence, and rude manners, supporting their colleagues, and assisting where necessary. 

·      Accept the decisions of the judge, vet or other officials without question of complaint, leaving it to their coach or manager to ask the necessary questions.

·      Accept success and failure with dignity.

·      Follow the instructions of the coach and team manager as long as they do not conflict with this Code.

·      Do not use doping methods in training and competition activities in order to enhance their sporting performance.

·      Do not use profane, sexist, or racist language.

·      Use their best effort for their team’s success.

·      Take every opportunity possible to them to develop their skills and horsemanship through educational programmes provided by the MEF.

Dress Code

·      Athletes must adhere to the proper dress code whenever attending MEF events and it is recommended to follow these rules in training:  

o   Helmets must be worn at all times when mounted at any MEF sanctioned events. Helmets must have the chinstrap fastened and adjusted to prevent movement. Riders should never buy second hand helmets unless they are sure these helmets have not been subjected to a blow or been damaged in any way. If a helmet has sustained a blow or is in any way damaged it should be replaced immediately. Event organisers can prevent entry into competition if the participant is wearing an ill-fitting helmet. Care should also be taken to ensure any helmet worn is compliant with safety standards related to the sport.

o   Attire - Competitors should always wear a riding jacket, jodhpurs, and a plain-coloured shirt during all events unless the event organisers stipulate alternative dress codes. Clothing should be clean, and riders should always appear smart. Shoulders must be covered for all riding activities. If an event has a theme or alternative dress code, then all clothing must be safe and suitable for riding with no clothing which could get caught on the horse or tack and no accessories which could cause distress to the horse. Clothing should never compromise rider and horse safety. For MEF events that are non-competitive (clinics etc.) riders must be wearing helmets, boots, jodhpurs and a smart top with sleeves.

o   Hair must be tidy and tied back securely at all times during events, evaluations, or in-hand work.

o   Glasses and contact lenses are permitted whilst riding but care must be taken that the materials these items are made of are safe and shatter proof. Riders may wear safety strap with their glasses if they wish to do so.

o   Boots - Riders should always wear standard riding or jodhpur boots with well-defined square cut heels to be accompanied with black or brown half chaps. These must be of the same colour. Tassels and fringes are not allowed. No other footwear will be permitted.

o   Jewellery - A wristwatch, wedding ring and stock pin are permitted but necklaces and bracelets must be removed with the exception of medical bracelets. Large or noticeable body piercings which may get caught on clothing or increase risk of injury should be removed before going near horses. Piercings should be only studded.

o   Body protectors are permitted during all events. They are mandatory for children under 14. Body protectors must be well fitted as badly fitting body protectors can unbalance the rider and can also increase the risk of injury.

 Smoking

The competitive rider attending MEF events should always be smart and displaying a good level of personal hygiene, avoid smoking in sports venues, both at competition and training areas and never compromise the safety of themselves, their horses, other riders and their horses, or spectators. Smoking in the stable areas is strictly prohibited.