INCHEON: Call it callousness of the federation officials or negligence, a few members of the equestrian team are stranded. It has been reliably learnt that around six members of the squad were supposed to leave for India after their competition on Wednesday night, but could not because their horses are stuck in Incheon.
The animals were to be transported to Germany, where the athletes will resume training for Rio Olympics. It has been learnt that the Equestrian Federation of India has refused to bail them out by not clearing the invoices of the transportation company.
Transportation of horses is expensive. Each can cost around 26,860 euros to be flown to Europe. Horses are generally transported by planes and there are companies with expertise in this. They use specialised stalls suitable for air cargo travel.
Two team members have approached the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) for help. Despite repeated requests, the federation had refused to listen to them. Not just that, the federation has even told the riders to arrange their own funds to transport the horses to Germany. According to an official, IOA has sought the Sports Ministry’s help.