When the Games of the XXVIII Olympiad begin with characteristic fanfare Aug. 13 in Athens–the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games–approximately 10,500 of the world’s greatest athletes will convene to match skills and wits in 28 sports. Leaving nothing to chance, competitors will be accompanied by coaches, trainers, medical doctors, psychologists, and therapists, all focused with their eyes on the prize–a cherished gold, silver, or bronze medal.

Only equestrian Olympic sports feature athlete pairings with an animal and allow men and women (as well as mares, stallions, and geldings) to compete on an equal basis. Just as with any other competitor, the equestrian rider’s painstaking preparations to "get there" will be inconsequential should a serious accident, injury, or illness occur to him or her. But just as important, that person cannot compete without his/her partner–the horse.

In Athens, America’s equine athletes will have access to the most comprehensive and sophisticated array of specialists and facilities of any previous Olympic competition. It’s dreams away from what was available when equestrian competition was dubbed an Olympic sport in 1900.

At the helm is Professor Leo Jeffcott, BVetMed, PhD, FRCVS, DVSc, MA, VetDr, president of the Athens Veterinary Commission, his second time in that role for the Olympic Games. Athens will be his fifth Olympics; he’s also officiated at four World Equestrian Games. He serves as Chairman of the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) Veterinary Committee and is a member of the FEI Bureau–the group’s main executive body. In that job, he reports on all relevant medication, health, welfare, and inspection issues. Add to his list of titles "Veterinary Technical Delegate," which means he handles the all-inclusive planning for the event