Heart rate, blood biochemistry and performance of horses competing in a 100 km endurance ride.

The research evaluated the effectiveness of a clinical examination in assessing the fitness of horses during an endurance ride, and further explored the relationship between these examinations and the blood chemistry of the horses. 23 horses were observed and sampled throughout an 87 to 100 km endurance ride, with heart rate measurements proving to be a reliable indicator of a horse’s metabolic status.

Research Objective

• This research aimed to assess the validity of clinical examinations in determining the fitness and health of horses during endurance rides. Furthermore, the study sought to understand the relationship between these clinical assessments and the blood biochemistry of the horses involved.

Methodology

• 23 horses were observed and led through an endurance ride varying from 87 to 100 km.
• Blood samples were collected from the horses at multiple points – before the ride, during the ride at three different checkpoints, right after the ride, and one day later.
• These samples were studied to determine several factors, including total protein, lactate, glucose, non-esterified fatty acids, creatine phosphokinase, aspartate aminotransferase, packed cell volume, and plasma electrolytes.

Results

• The research found that a horse’s heart rate could be a reliable indicator of its metabolic status during endurance runs.
• Thus, it concluded that clinical examinations performed under the official rules of the Fédération Equestre Internationale (the international governing body for all Olympic equestrian disciplines) are adequate for ensuring the health and welfare of competing horses.

Implications

• This study provides important evidence that vet checks conducted during endurance races can accurately assess the condition of a horse and its ability to continue.
• It also highlights the reliability of heart rate measurements as an indicator for a horse’s metabolic status, which can guide veterinarians during these checks in determining whether a horse can safely continue in the race.