A group of talented fourth-year veterinary students preparing for careers in equine sports medicine are assisting with the care of elite competition horses during the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games.

Thirty-three student members of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) were selected by their veterinary schools to participate in externships during the Games, held Sept. 25-Oct. 10 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky. These high-achieving students are gaining clinical experience in the equine hospital, monitoring biosecurity, responding to ambulatory emergencies, and benefiting from the mentorship of the best sport horse veterinarians in the profession.

One student from each of the AAEP's 36 student chapters was invited to participate in the academic externship. Students were nominated and selected by faculty advisors and AAEP-member mentors at their chapter. Selected participants were evaluated on academic performance, leadership at their veterinary school and a firm commitment to equine sports medicine.

While rotating shifts at designated workstations throughout the Games, students are exposed to essential veterinary care for each of the eight competing equestrian disciplines. In addition, students are required to attend daily lectures to learn about the physical demands and rules for each discipline, common injuries associated with each sport, biosecurity,and regulatory measures, and triage of athletic injuries