After runaway horse incident, Ronse's Fiertelommegang to separate riders and walkers

The historic Fiertelommegang in Ronse is set to implement significant safety changes, separating horses and riders from the main procession of walkers. This decision comes after a distressing incident last year when a horse bolted, injuring three participants, including two children. The Fiertel, a centuries-old tradition dating back to 1089, involves carrying the relics of Saint Hermes through the city, with horses having been a long-standing element of the procession.

Nele Hoffius, the chairperson, emphasized the organization's commitment to preserving the unique character of the Fiertel while making safety the utmost priority. "We want to avoid the incident of last year from happening again," she stated, highlighting the need for enhanced safety measures for riders, horses, pilgrims, and spectators alike.

To achieve this, the Fiertel committee will enforce stricter controls on participating horses and riders. An experienced rider will assess each horse's suitability for the event. Furthermore, the schedule and route for the riders will be adjusted. They will start half an hour after the walkers and follow a different path to prevent congestion in the narrow streets, ensuring a safer and more organized experience for everyone involved in this cherished tradition.

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Horses give the procession its unique character. The Fiertel committee wants to continue that tradition with care, with a clear priority: safety for riders, horses, pilgrims, and spectators. We want to avoid the incident of last year from happening again.