Before the start of the equestrian games, many riders abroad wondered whether Hong Kong would be up to the task of hosting the events.

The weather, pollution and facilities were all called into question.

But with just three more days of competition to go, those concerns have been laid to rest, with athletes going as far as to say the equine facilities in Hong Kong are world-class.

Great Britain rider Mary King, who won the team eventing bronze medal on Tuesday, said that her trip to Hong Kong last year convinced her the horses would be comfortable.

"They (the horses) are so precious to us, but what has given me confidence was the test event held last year at the same venue and at the same time of the year," she said. "All of the horses were monitored very carefully by the vets, and they coped amazingly well."

She added that the overall environment in the city has been top notch in the past week, specifically noting the clean air.

Australian show jumper Edwina Alexander said Hong Kong facilities are even better than at other Olympic Games, adding that there was problem with the footing at the Sydney Games.

"The Hong Kong facilities are as good as you'll find at any other top show," she said.

The competition atmosphere is also encouraging to the riders.

"The stadium was full in the show-jumping test," she said. "But the spectators are quiet and educated about the show. They haven't shouted at the wrong times."

Saudi Arabian show jumper Ramzy Al Duhami even suggested a bigger venue could have accommodated more spectators.

"They are always good for the sports," he said of more fans in the stands. "The enthusiastic atmosphere is a good start for riders."

Australian dressage rider Heath Ryan offered some of the best praise, calling the Hong Kong facilities "the best in the world".

Azerbaijan show jumper Jamal Rahimov said he hadn't heard any riders complaining that the venue facilities are of poor quality.

Chinese show jumper Li Zhenqiang echoed Rahimov's views, saying the air-conditioned stables really help the horses cool down.

"I haven't heard any criticism regarding the facilities," he said.

Swedish eventing rider Magnus Gallerdal was equally impressed with the veterinary services.

His horse, Keymaster, sustained a bone injury from the cross-country test on August 11. An X-ray identified a hairline fracture - not uncommon among competing horses - in its pastern bone, which is vital in shock absorption.

An operation was performed, with four screws being inserted into the injured leg.

"They are taking care of the matter in a fantastic way," Gallerdal said of the veterinarians. "They handled it very professionally from the start to the finish. They are very experienced."

(HK Edition 08/18/2008 page1)