Equestrian heroes – and a very special dog – were celebrated tonight at the FEI Awards Gala 2014 presented by Longines.

The five winners of the “Oscars of the equestrian world” 2014 were presented with their awards by outgoing FEI President HRH Princess Haya on her final day as FEI President at a dazzling ceremony in Baku’s fabulous Buta Palace.

The winners, who have made outstanding contributions to the growth of equestrian sport in 2014, are:

Reem Acra Best Athlete Award: World Jumping champion Jeroen Dubbeldam (NED)

Longines Rising Star Award: Vaulter Lambert Leclezio (MRI)

Best Groom Award: Jackie Potts (GBR), groom to Eventing world number one William Fox-Pitt (GBR)

FEI Solidarity: Equine therapy centre Equal Ark (SIN)

Against All Odds: Para-Equestrian Dressage athlete Sydney Collier (USA) with her service dog Journey

The equestrian heroes donned tuxedos and gowns for the gala dinner, which was attended by almost 350 guests from National Federations, partners, VIPs and international media.

Azerbaijani TV presenter Leyla Aliyeva and retiring FEI Endurance Director Ian Williams were Masters of Ceremony for the evening.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II also became the first recipient of the FEI Lifetime Achievement award last month as part of this prestigious FEI Awards scheme in recognition of her leading role as supporter of equestrian sport throughout her reign as British monarch. She was presented with the award at Buckingham Palace by HRH Princess Haya.

HRH Princess Haya was herself celebrated in a special presentation tonight in acknowledgement of her outstanding commitment to equestrian sport and to the FEI, during her eight year term in office as FEI President.

“It is a great honour for me to be here tonight on my first official duty as FEI President,” newly elected FEI President Ingmar De Vos said. “There have been a number of awards tonight, but there is someone here, a very special person, who deserves to be recognised and celebrated. Your Royal Highness, it is now my turn to surprise you with your very own special award. I hope you will wear it with pride and think of your FEI Family” as he presented her with a beautiful diamond brooch.

“You have had a lasting effect on every single person in this room, on the organisation, on the FEI Family and on the sport globally. You have led us to new frontiers. You had a vision and you took us on an incredible journey. Thank you once again for everything!”

HRH Princess Haya was joined on stage by her brother HRH Prince Ali Bin Al Hussein, FIFA Vice President: “There is one question she always asks when she meets someone that she looks up to, but it’s a question she has never actually asked me. She asks ‘If there is someone in the past you would like to see something you have done, and they would be proud of you, who is it?’ I would say tonight that I would love our late father and late mother to come back and see you right now. They would be so proud of you.” Brother and sister joined hands as they watched a moving video of the key moments of Princess Haya’s family life, her sporting career and love of horses, and her eight years as FEI President.

FEI Awards 2014 Winners

Reem Acra Best Athlete Award: Jeroen Dubbeldam (NED)
With an impressive track record including individual gold at the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games during a career spanning 25 years, Jeroen Dubbeldam has had an exceptional 2014, scoring individual and team gold at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian™ Games 2014 and helping the Netherlands clinch the Furusiyya FEI Nations Cup™ Final just weeks later.

“I’m very honoured to receive the Reem Acra Best Athlete Award,” said Jeroen Dubbeldam. “I’m very proud of it! Looking back at 2014 I am full of pride for my horse, Zenith SFN, and the way he competed, as this was the first year at this top level, filling in the gap of my former horse, Utascha SFN that was sold.”

International fashion designer Reem Acra flew in specially for tonight’s gala dinner to present the Best Athlete Award to Jeroen Dubbeldam. “It is an honour to have again been asked to present the FEI’s Best Athlete Award”, she said. “Since I started participating in the FEI World Cup Dressage series, I have come to appreciate even more the incredible level of talent required to reach the top in equestrian sport. Every recipient of this award has spent countless hours creating the amazing harmony between humans and horse that is so beautiful to watch.”

Longines Rising Star Award: Lambert Leclezio (MRI)
At just 17 years of age, Lambert Leclezio became the first athlete to represent Mauritius at World Championship level when he stepped into the Vaulting arena at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 in Normandy (FRA). An impressive sixth place finish in the individual category was the culmination of years of dedication to his sport. Coming from a country with limited training facilities and Vaulting horses, Lambert received support through the FEI’s global sport development programme, FEI Solidarity, to qualify for the 2014 Games by training and competing in Europe. Training on a former racehorse in Mauritius, Lambert continues to practice and compete throughout the year, both in his home country and Europe, while completing his studies in Mauritius.

“Thank you so much to everyone who voted for me”, Lambert Leclezio said. “It’s a great honour to receive the Longines Rising Star Award. I made lots of sacrifices to get here, and so did everyone who has been helping me. I would like to say a special thanks to the FEI for organising this beautiful ceremony for the equestrian family, and for the huge help from FEI Solidarity, which allowed me to compete at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Normandy and made my dream come true. I’m very happy for all that has happened to me in 2014.”

“Supporting the up-and-coming athletes in the sports Longines is involved in has been a high priority for the brand for the past few years”, said Juan-Carlos Capelli, Longines Vice-President and Head of International Marketing.

“These young talents are the future of their discipline and will be part of the development and influence of the sport across the globe. To encourage these promising sportsmen and women to reach their full potential and fulfil their dreams is one of the most rewarding efforts a brand can make and we are very proud of that.”

Best Groom Award: Jackie Potts (GBR)
After spending the last 22 years as groom and right-hand woman in the stables of world eventing number one William Fox-Pitt (GBR), Jackie Potts is one of the most well respected grooms on the circuit. She has groomed at four Olympic Games, four FEI World Equestrian Games™ and eight European Championships, on top of countless three-day events around the world. Jackie is the consummate professional, managing all aspects of Fox-Pitt’s yard and horses from training to veterinary care. Her extensive knowledge of horse management and training means her advice is often sought by other grooms as well as Team GBR.

“It is so exciting and an absolute privilege to be here to receive this award tonight,” Jackie Potts said. “I feel like I am accepting this award on behalf of all other grooms, who are so hardworking and equally deserving,”

“It is a hugely deserved and very prestigious award,” William Fox-Pitt said by video message. “Jackie has a profound empathy with horses, and horses love her. She is fantastic at motivating her team, and is generous in the sharing of her knowledge and expertise.

“There are few grooms in the world that rival her experience, and her dedication is proven by her 22 years as my yard manager. After all she has achieved in her profession, nothing gives me greater pleasure than to see her being rewarded tonight.”

Against All Odds: Sydney Collier (USA) with Journey

Born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Sydney Collier was diagnosed with the rare Wyburn Mason syndrome at the age of seven. The disease has meant that she has been faced with significant obstacles, but these have not prevented her from reaching her goals. The 17-year-old has undergone a series of operations, including three brain surgeries, is blind in one eye, and a stroke at the age of 11 led to paralysis on her left side.

Despite these challenges, she has pursued her dreams relentlessly, and after competing at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 this summer, is determined to continue training and represent the USA at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games. In between training in New York, 10 hours away from her family and friends, she also volunteers once a week to speak, motivate and encourage young people of her age who do not have the same motivation and family support that she does.

Sydney Collier was also recently announced 2014 Junior Equestrian of the Year by the United States Equestrian Federation.

Journey, the star service dog in Baku

Sydney’s service dog, the white standard poodle Journey, who became famous during the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ 2014 in Normandy for being the first dog to get accreditation for a World Championship, created a buzz again tonight when he arrived on stage at the Buta Palace in Baku, complete with bow tie. After travelling over 9,000 kilometres from New York, Journey took to the stage to receive his own FEI Award, a personalised dog bowl.

“Winning the FEI Against All Odds Award means so much to me as an individual, and as an athlete,” Sydney Collier said. “Life has routinely thrown speed bumps and curves on my plans, but my passion for horses and their incredible spirit has repeatedly helped me find a way around obstacles that others might have seen as insurmountable.

“In winning this award I now have the incredible opportunity to share with so many others facing similar circumstances that their goals do not ever have to be put aside. The world out there is filled with wonderful opportunities as long as you are willing to push yourself to reach them. I would like to thank the FEI for creating this award to help continue to inspire every athlete, regardless of challenging circumstances, to strive to be their best every day in and out of the saddle. And to my family and my trainer Wes Dunham who have been beside me every step of the way. I wouldn’t be standing here today without each one of you supporting and cheering me on through thick and thin.

“It means even more to me to have my special service dog Journey by my side to accept this award. When Journey was granted his credentials at the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games a world of opportunity and education was opened. Together Journey and I are now able to share with others the special working relationship and independence that service animals grant their handlers. The icing on the cake? Journey loves horses as much as I do!”

FEI Solidarity: Equal Ark (SIN)

Launched in 2011, the Singapore-based Equal Ark (Equine-Assisted Learning for At Risk Kids) is a programme of horsemanship lessons for children experiencing a range of difficulties at home and at school. The initiative has already helped 800 children who have failed or dropped out of school at an early age. Equal Ark provides children with a greater chance of success in their school, work and family lives while developing a love for horses. Equal Ark will enrol 400 students annually from 2015, and is aiming to double this from 2017.

“Recognition from a prestigious international organization now puts EQUAL and our island of Singapore firmly on the global equestrian map”, chairman of Equal Ark Melissa Tan said. “The FEI Award allows us to recognise and acknowledge our appreciation to the team of volunteers and staff who have contributed to its success.

“This award affirms and cements our dedication to reach out to even more children whose lives can be inspired by the beauty and magnificence of our treasured equine partners.”

Photo Caption: Equestrian heroes were celebrated tonight at the glittering FEI Awards 2014, the “Oscars of the equestrian world”, presented by Longines in Baku’s fabulous Buta Palace (left to right): HRH Princess Haya, Jeroen Dubbeldam (NED), Melissa Tan (SIN) chairman of equine therapy centre Equal Ark, Jackie Potts (GBR), Lambert Leclezio (MRI) with (centre) Sydney Collier (USA) and her service dog Journey. (FEI/Liz Gregg)

By British Dressage

Eight British riders, equipped with their equine counterparts, crossed the channel and made the drive to the Netherlands for the Roosendaal CDI3*.

Immediately making an impact on the first day of competition, 15-year-old pony rider, Rebecca Bell achieved a personal best score in the pony team test with her mother’s 11-year-old German mare, Valido’s Sunshine (pictured). Their first international outing since the Pony Europeans earlier this year, their scoring 72.09% was enough to secure second place. Fellow pony rider, Angus Corrie-Deane contested in the same class with his own 13-year-old British-bred gelding, Grayswood Orlando, scoring 61.49% which placed them in 20th.

Speaking from her Facebook, Rebecca Bell couldn’t contain her delight: “Over the moon! Today Sunny and I scored a new PB of 72.094% in our team test at CDI Roosendaal to finish 2nd amongst some strong Dutch and German riders (the top 12 out of 23 were over 68%). I was very proud of her as the arena has been fully decorated for Christmas (and looks stunning!) she didn’t bat an eyelid.”

Over the course of the competition, Rebecca and Sunny – as Valido’s Sunshine is known by her friends – also went on to score 68.21% in the pony individual test, placing tenth and qualifying through to the freestyle where they notched up a mark of 70.90%, finishing in eighth. 15-year-old Angus and his partner of almost two years upped their game in the individual test to score 65.56% and place 16th.

Making their debut together away from British soil, rider and trainer Matt Frost impressed at small tour with Dedi Leech’s nine year old German gelding, AMD Don Rosso II. Playing it safe in their premiere performance in the PSG, the pair scored a strong 67.26% to put them into 18th place. Warwickshire-based, Paul Friday was also competing in the PSG with Christine Trendell’s 11-year-old KWPN gelding, Winston Bond. Together, in their first class of the competition, they placed 11th with their mark of 68.02%.

In the inter I, Matt and ‘Donald’ – as AMD Don Rosso II is known at home – had clearly settled in to competition life abroad as they shot up the leader board to take third with a solid 69.21%. Paul and Winston Bond, however, elected to contest in the inter I freestyle. Scoring a well-earned 70.25%, the pair also improved their previous placing to take eighth.

Nikki Crisp, Belinda Skipper and Kay Maxted represented GBR in the big tour classes. Riding her partner of 12-years, 17-year-old KWPN mare, Pasoa, Nikki made her mark in the grand prix. Placing 13th with their mark of 66.36%, the duo also went through to the grand prix freestyle where they danced their way into eighth with 69.72%.

Belinda, equipped with her own 16-year-old Danish gelding, Capetto Vesteruang scored 64.74% to take 16th place in the grand prix, whilst Kay and her Gribaldi-sired 17-year-old gelding, Privaldi earned a mark of 63.16% to take 20th. Both electing to compete in the grand prix special, Belinda bounded up the leader board with 65.82% to take fourth, with Kay not too far behind in sixth with 64.62%.

For full results, click here.

Results

Class 3: PSG

11th – Paul Friday with Winston Bond (GBR), 68.02%

18th – Matt Frost with AMD Don Rosso II (GBR), 67.26%

Class 4: Grand prix

13th – Nikki Crisp with Pasoa (GBR), 66.36%

16th – Belinda Skipper with Capetto Vesteruang (GBR), 64.74%

20th – Kay Maxted with Privaldi (GBR), 63.16%

Class 5: Pony team test

2nd – Rebecca Bell with Valido’s Sunshine (GBR), 72.09%

20th – Angus Corrie-Deane with Grayswood Orlando (GBR), 61.49%

Class 7: U25s inter II

8th – Alex Barr with Romanoff (GBR), 65.84%

Class 8: Inter I freestyle

8th – Paul Friday with Winston Bond (GBR), 70.25%

Class 10: Inter I

3rd – Matt Frost with AMD Don Rosso II (GBR), 69.21%

Class 11: Pony individual test

10th – Rebecca Bell with Valido’s Sunshine (GBR), 68.21%

16th – Angus Corrie-Deane with Grayswood Orlando (GBR), 65.56%

Class 13: Grand prix freestyle

8th – Nikki Crisp with Pasoa (GBR), 69.72%

Class 14: Grand prix special

4th – Belinda Skipper with Capetto Vesteruang (GBR), 65.82%

6th – Kay Maxted with Privaldi (GBR), 64.62%

Class 15: U25s grand prix

8th – Alex Barr with Romanoff (GBR), 66.44%

Class 16: Pony freestyle

8th – Rebecca Bell with Valido’s Sunshine (GBR), 70.90%

by Equine Canada

Ottawa, Ont., Dec. 1, 2014 — Dressage Canada is again pleased to have the opportunity to present and host the Florida Fortnight event which will celebrate, develop and support our talented Canadian athletes, while also providing education and networking opportunities for officials, owners, sponsors and dressage enthusiasts. Back by popular demand, the second annual Florida Fortnight in Wellington, will run from January 25 through to Feb 3, 2015.

The Fortnight is open to anyone. Come down to Florida, and bring your friends. There is lots to see in addition to the sunshine and fabulous shopping. No matter how large or how small your budget, the Fortnight will have something for everyone.

The 2015 Fortnight will begin on January 25th with a special encore screening of the emotional and touching documentary – THE POWER OF TWO, which follows our riders and horses as they prepare to compete for Canada at the 2011 Pan American Games. This outstanding film was produced by Zap Productions who were our 2014 Media of Excellence Award recipients. Following this presentation, we will officially kick off our Fortnight with the welcome reception sponsored by Vericore Ventures – Equinity Supplements.

We have many return presenters for the 2015 Fortnight, and also some new faces and experts joining our team.

Sessions will again be held on fitness, nutrition, equine health and maintenance, mental coaching, analyzing performance, supplements for performance, media training and much more. See our full schedule and list of presenters, click here

Added to our Fortnight this year is a clinic for certified coaches and officials with Dr. Volker Moritz. Gather personal insight on the sport from one of the most experienced judges. Dr. Moritz has judged at national, European, World Equestrian Games, World Cups and the Olympic Games, and he is truly a sport icon. The 2015 event will also include some special one-of-a-kind opportunities with some of our most accomplished athletes including multiple Olympians Christilot Boylen, Ashley Holzer and Belinda Trussell.

Back by popular demand is the headset commentary. Sit and watch some of the top athletes in the world compete at the CDI5* Wellington (February 4-8, 2015) in a relaxed setting while listening to one of the top FEI dressage judges explain the te
sts for each athlete from a judge’s point of view.

To register for the Fortnight, visit here

(San Francisco Bay Area, CA) December 12, 2014 – To provide its members greater services and exceptional events, the California Dressage Society, one of the largest dressage organizations in the nation, has selected Dark Horse Media Biz to expand CDS sponsorship development.

Founded in 1967, the California Dressage Society is a non-profit organization devoted to furthering interest in dressage, with more than 4,300 individual members in its 36 chapters and a rich history of equestrian sport on the West Coast.

Dark Horse Media Biz Partners Patti Schofler and Nan Meek will be working closely with California Dressage Society board members, show and activity managers, and members to develop sponsor relationships that provide a valuable return for their support of CDS programs and activities.

“We are proud to represent the California Dressage Society,” said Patti Schofler, partner in Dark Horse Media Biz. “CDS is a leader among regional dressage organizations, with an active membership and a dedicated board that is planning ahead for the benefit of future generations of dressage riders.”

Dark Horse Media Biz Partner Nan Meek added, “CDS is rich in programs and activities that reach every segment of its membership, from grassroots beginner to Olympic stars. We look forward to connecting individuals, corporations, and businesses of all sizes with CDS sponsorship opportunities.”

California Dressage Society premium shows and activities include the CDS Annual Meeting and Lilo Fore/Judy Harvey Symposium (January 30-Feburary 1); the CDS Regional Adult Amateur Competitions in northern, central and southern California; the Linda O’Carroll Memorial Adult Amateur Clinics in northern, central and southern California; the CDS Junior/Young Rider Championships, held in northern and southern locations; the CDS Championship Show that alternates annually between northern and southern California and includes the Great American Insurance Group / USDF Region 7 Championships, the Great American Insurance Group / USDF Breeders Championships West Coast Series Final, the California Dressage Society Young Horse Futurity and the California-Bred Futurity.

Written by: Lindsay Y. McCall

Lexington, KY – December 12, 2014- Para-Equestrian Dressage Young Rider Sydney Collier has been named the 2014 Junior Equestrian of the Year by the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF). Collier, 17, of Ann Arbor, Mich. was selected for her accomplishments among many outstanding junior athletes. Collier will receive her award at the the Pegasus Awards Dinner held Friday, January 16, at The Hyatt Regency Lexington in Lexington, Ky., during the 2015 USEF Annual Meeting. Collier will be awarded the Ruth O’Keefe Meredith Memorial Trophy as the 2014 Junior Equestrian of the Year.

Sydney Collier and Journey at the 2014 Alltech FEI WOrld Equestrian Games. Photo (C) SusanJStickle.com

Collier has made it her mission as she states, “To take the dis out of disabled.” At age seven, Sydney was diagnosed with Wyburn-Mason Syndrome after she began having blurry vision. Wyburn-Mason Syndrome is a rare, congenital disorder characterized by arteriovenous malformations in the central nervous system and retina. It affects only .14% of the world’s population and can cause brain hemorrhaging, stroke, paralysis, or death. She enjoys bringing awareness to the disabled community and the Paralympic Equestrian sport through public speaking, dedication, and her riding accomplishments.

In 2014 Collier earned a spot as a Grade Ib rider on the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games U.S. Para-Dressage Team that competed in Normandy, France. She acheived strong scores on Victoria Dugan’s Willi Wesley, a 2000 Warmblood gelding. It was only four years prior at the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Kentucky where Collier met Paralympian Jonathan Wentz who introduced and then mentored her on the Paralympic sport. Through her positive attitude and determination Collier has garnered numerous accolades aboard horses Willi Wesley; NTEC Cuplee, owned by Patricia Mendenhall; and her current competition partner Wentworth, formally owned by Amy McIlwham. Collier rides with Paralympic Dressage coach Wes Dunham of Woodstock Stables in Millbrook, NY.

Her athletic pursuits have been accompanied by multiple awards and scholarships including 2011 Para-Dressage demonstration rider at the Adequate FEI North American Junior and Young Rider Championships, 2012 Think Alive Grant, 2013 USDF Youth Convention Scholarship, 2013 U.S. Para-Dressage Symposium invitation, 2013 Custom Saddlery Rising Star Award, 2013 Miss Jane Marple Memorial Trophy at Dressage for Kids, 2014 Michigan Virtual High School Chemistry Schloarship, 2013 and 2014 Jonathan Wentz Memorial Scholarship, 2014 Courtney’s Quest Scholarship, and the 2014 Women’s Sports Foundation Travel and Training Grant.

Between riding and maintaining her Honors student status at Skyline High School, Collier enjoys sharing her story and goals as a motivational speaker around the country. She not only speaks to groups and individuals in the equestrian world but she also enjoys speaks with groups with varied interests throughout the community including 4-H clubs.

Sydney Collier and Willi Wesley at the 2014 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games. Photo (C) SusanJStickle.com

Collier is an outstanding representative for the 2014 Junior Equestrian of the Year Award. Hope Hand, Paralympian and President of the United States Para-Equestrian Association acknowledged, “This is an exciting achievement for Sydney. She has worked tirelessly as an athlete and student to achieve her goals. I have watched her grow as an individual over the past 5 years and her positive attitude and determination has been felt by everyone that has ever reached out to Sydney. She will humbly tell anyone that asks that she had the best mentor and advisor, the late Jonathan Wentz, who has guided her path to success. Jonathan was the driving force behind the Para-Dressage Junior and Young Rider Program, but it still takes a talented rider to carry on his mission to be the best in the world. I am so proud of Sydney.”

Hand continued, “On behalf of the Para-Equestrian discipline I would like to thank USEF for acknowledging this outstanding athlete.”

Collier is excited to look towards the future as she aims for the 2016 Paralympics in Rio De Janeiro. For more information about Sydney Collier please visit

For more information on the 2015 USEF Annual Meeting, click here

About the United States Para-Equestrian Association:

The USPEA is a network of riders, judges, national federation members, and equestrian enthusiasts. The association gives athletes the ability to get involved and expand their knowledge and experience in the Para-Equestrian sport. The USPEA encourages Para-athletes to participate in all disciplines under the Para-Equestrian umbrella.

The USPEA is a recognized affiliate of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) which serves as the National Governing Body for the equestrian sport. This relationship between the USPEA and USEF is to encourage Para-Equestrian competitors, leisure riders, coaches, fans and enthusiasts to network and get involved with the entire equestrian sport.

Ultimately the goal of the USPEA is to foster growth in the Para-Equestrian discipline. From growth in the number of participants to growth as a team, and growth in the experience and knowledge of all involved. From local horse shows to international Paralympic Games, the USPEA provides Para-Equestrians the knowledge and resources needed to succeed. The USPEA connects with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), the United States Dressage Federation (USDF), USA Reining, and USEF which provide Para-Equestrians the top equestrian resources.

In June 2010, the USPEA earned its 501 (c)(3) status which has encouraged supporters to help supply funding to the Para-Equestrian Team as a recognized affiliate of the United States Equestrian Federation(USEF).

For more information about the USPEA please visit here or contact USPEA President: Hope Hand by e-mail: hope@uspea.org or by phone: (610)356-6481.

FEI General Assembly 2014: Baku (AZE), 12 December 2014

A Meet the Presidential Candidates session, at which each of the five candidates for the FEI Presidency will present their manifestos to National Federations, stakeholders and international media, will be held in Baku (AZE) tomorrow, 13 December.

The Independent Advisory Committee, set up by the FEI Bureau in September 2014 to preserve the integrity of the election process, conducted a draw this evening to determine the order of the candidates’ presentations.

The running order for the Meet the Presidential Candidates session is as follows:

1. Pierre Durand (FRA)
2. John McEwen (GBR)
3. Ingmar De Vos (BEL)
4. Pierre Genecand (SUI)
5. Ulf Helgstrand (DEN)

Each candidate will be given 15 minutes for tomorrow’s individual presentations during the first part of the Meet the Presidential Candidates session, which will run from 14.15 – 16.00 AZT (local Azerbaijan time, GMT + 4 hours) at the Fairmont Hotel Conference Centre. The session will be moderated by Richard Nicoll (USA).

The candidates’ presentations will be followed by a Question and Answer session from 16.15-18.00. Both parts of the session will be broadcast live and free of charge on FEI TV, the FEI’s official online video platform.

The election of the new FEI President will take place during the FEI General Assembly on Sunday 14 December. The General Assembly starts at 09.00 AZT.

Independent Advisory Committee

The Independent Advisory Committee was established under Article 36.1 of the FEI Statutes and oversees the election process and all related matters. The temporary committee is composed of:

- The FEI President, HRH Princess Haya
- The Chair of the Equestrian Community Integrity Unit, Lord Stevens
- The former Chair of the FEI Tribunal, Ken Lalo
- The Chair of the FEI Audit and Compliance Unit, Brian Mangan

Current FEI President, HRH Princess Haya

HRH Princess Haya was elected as FEI President in 2006 in the first contested election for the FEI Presidency, and was re-elected in 2010 in the first contested election involving a serving President. On 12 August 2014, Princess Haya announced she would not stand for a third term as FEI President – see statement here. For more information on HRH Princess Haya, please visit here

FEI Presidential election 2014

A total of five candidates are standing for election to the position of FEI President. The candidates, in order of receipt of the candidacy files by the FEI, are: Pierre Genecand (SUI), Ulf Helgstrand (DEN), John McEwen (GBR), Pierre Durand (FRA) and Ingmar De Vos (BEL). A sixth candidate, Javier Revuelta del Peral (ESP), withdrew his bid for the Presidency in November.

FEI Presidential term

The FEI Presidential term was previously unlimited until the FEI Statutes were changed in 2007 to limit it to two terms of four years. The FEI Statutes were further amended in April 2014 to extend the term of office to three consecutive four-year terms.

The Dressage Foundation

Region 3 grant recipient Nina Hayes

The Dressage Foundation is proud to announce this year’s recipients of the Carol Lavell Gifted Memorial Fund Scholarships for Adult Amateurs. Each will receive a $1,000 Scholarship to enable them to set aside quality time in concentrated training with their horse, trainer of choice, and away from the daily pressures of job and family.

“Thanks to the generosity of Carol Lavell, her family, and friends, we are pleased to provide this financial support to adult amateurs who not only make time to further their dressage education, but who are tremendous volunteers for their dressage clubs,” said Jenny Johnson, Executive Director of The Dressage Foundation. “Without the effort of volunteers such as these, dressage would not be alive and well in communities across the country. They certainly deserve to have some time away to concentrate on their riding!”

Up to eleven $1,000 grants are available each year – one per United States Dressage Federation Region and two wild card grants that can be awarded in any Region. The following Adult Amateurs were chosen as recipients from their respective USDF Regions to receive grants for training in the 2015 calendar year.

USDF Region 1 – Eliza Temeles Slone (VA) and her horse, Aurelia, will train with James Koford. Eliza is a member of the Charlottesville Chapter of the Virginia Dressage Association.

USDF Region 2 – Ashley Holden (KY) and her horse, Ripken, will train with Jennifer Truett. Ashley is a member of Kentucky Dressage Association.

USDF Region 3 – Susan Price (TN) and her horse, Serenade, will train with James Koford. Susan is a member of Crossroads Dressage and Combined Training Society.

USDF Region 3 – Nia Haynes (FL) and her horse, Mooie Zwaan, will train with Greta Wrigley. Nia is a member of Arredondo Dressage Society.

USDF Region 4 – Melissa Ward (NE) and her horse, Wintessa, will train with Sarah Martin. Melissa is a member of Nebraska Dressage Association.

USDF Region 7 – Margo Brown (CA) and her horse, Dolce Diva, will train with Sue Curry Schaffer. Margo is a member of the Sonoma Chapter of the California Dressage Society.

USDF Region 7 – Susan Traynor (NV) and her horse, Ty Traynor, will train with Sarah Lockman. Susan is a member of California Dressage Society.

USDF Region 9 – Jennifer Porter Delmer (TX) and her horse, Coles Night Hawk, will train with Lurena Bell. Jennifer is a member of Alamo Dressage Association.