Megan Fleming of Calgary, AB, is traveling to the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games in Japan to work as a Testing Technician.
Photo Credit: ©EC/Shauna Curran-Cooper
Megan will act as a Testing Technician for the Games, helping the Testing Veterinarians during sampling for the FEI’s Equine Anti-Doping and Controlled Medication Programme – a critical element in ensuring a safe and level playing field in equestrian sport.
Read on to hear from Canada’s sole Paralympic official about this exciting FEI appointment!
EC: What is your background in the horse world?
MF: Horses have been such a huge part of my life since I was a just a little girl. I have ridden recreationally and competitively, as well as worked as a Registered Veterinary Technician for the past 12 years in the equine industry. I have been fortunate to also have been involved with other large international equestrian events including the World Equestrian Games in 2018.
EC: What steps did you take to get to the Paralympics?
MF: Working as an EMCT for EC and the FEI has been preparing me for the chance to partake in such an extraordinary opportunity like this. I have also been reading through and familiarizing myself with the many emails on the 2020 Paralympic protocols and catching up on any new rules and regulations that I need to know before I arrive at the Games.
Networking has been extremely beneficial for me within the horse industry. I have been so fortunate to not only work with amazing veterinary and equine professionals throughout my career outside of testing, but also within the EC and FEI testing roles. I’m also very strong believer that when you work hard and always give your best self good things almost also follow.
EC: What are the particular challenges of being a Testing Technician?
MF: There can certainly be challenges being a Testing Technician but I honestly haven’t encountered too many over the years. However, that being said, you can run into uncooperative competitors and horses, which can make the days a bit trying. Weather also plays a huge factor for collecting samples on occasion. Overall, I find when testing my days are mostly positive.
EC: What are you hoping to get out of this experience?
MF: When the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world, I wasn’t sure if the 2020 Paralympics would be in my future or not but as soon as I heard that it was a go for 2021, I was so ecstatic! This is going to be such a unique experience and I am just so humbled and thrilled to be asked to be a part of it all. I am also greatly looking forward to working alongside some of the world’s best equestrian athletes. This will also be my first time traveling to Japan so that in itself will be an incredible experience!
EC: Do you have any advice to give others who are working towards becoming involved with the Paralympics?
MF: Always work hard and be willing to take every and all opportunities that comes your way, as you never know what other doors it can open. I also feel you that you never stop learning as much as you can so that you can contribute and pass along your knowledge to the experience.