Olympian Heath Ryan suspended by Equestrian Australia over shocking horse-whipping video

Olympian Heath Ryan has been suspended by Equestrian Australia following the emergence of a shocking video showing him repeatedly whipping a horse over 40 times.

The footage, which quickly sparked outrage across the equestrian community and on social media, led to swift action from the governing body.

Equestrian Australia said it was “extremely alarmed and concerned” by the footage.


In a statement, the governing body announced a provisional suspension of the individual's membership, along with all associated rights, privileges, and benefits.

The suspension will remain in effect while the matter is investigated by Equestrian Australia’s integrity unit.


Ryan, a veteran equestrian who represented Australia at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, said in a statement he had been acting in the animal's 'best interests'.

Ryan justified his brutal act, saying it had been a 'life or death moment' for the horse, named Nico.

He described the six-year-old horse as a longtime "problem child," claiming it was bound for the knackery following a previous incident that left a family friend in intensive care.

He stated that the video was recorded two years ago and was shared by a disgruntled former employee, adding that Nico is now thriving in a new home.

"I am so sad this was caught on video. If I had been thinking of myself I would have immediately just gotten off and sent Nico to the knackery," Ryan said.

"That video was a life or death moment for Nico and I genuinely had to try my very hardest to see if Nico would consider other options.

"All of this transpired sincerely with the horse's best interests the sole consideration. Unbelievably it was so successful for everyone except me with the release of this video."