The Equestrian Blog

The Equestrian Oscars

FEI - The International Federation of Equestrian Sport has launched The Equestrian Oscars.

The FEI has said the awards will...  "celebrate the equestrian community and pay tribute to heroes in the sport."

FEI President HRH Princess Haya, said:

"These awards will not only recognise the achievements and success of individuals and highlight the stars of today and tomorrow but they will also bring together all those involved in the sport around the world."

An international judging panel chaired by Princess Haya will select the winners.

The Equestrian Oscars will be presented to the winners at the FEI gala dinner in Copenhagen, Denmark, on 21 November 2009.

The five categories are:

• Athlete of the Year — to a rider, driver or vaulter who has shown exceptional sportsmanship and prowess
• Rising Star — to a promising rider between the ages of 14-21. Sponsored by HSBC
• Development — for a development project, individual or organisation that has contributed most to the sport. Sponsored by Alltech.
• Against All Odds — to celebrate an outstanding disabled rider of any age
• Groom of the Year — the unsung hero behind the scenes

Enter your nomination at www.feiawards.org. The Deadline for entries is 17th October 2009.

Clearer Doping and Medication rules from the FEI?

The biggest ever shake up of horse sport has been unveiled by the FEI.

An independent review of anti-doping and testing procedures as well as vastly increased stable security at competition venues are key points being looked at in a series of recommendations to combat doping in horse sport.

The recommendations were announced by Lord Stevens, the former chief of the Metropoliton Police, who was appointed by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) in May to investigate doping practices in equestrian sport.

Lord Steven's appointment followed the six positive dope test at last year's Olympics and the sacking of the entire German equestrian team.

The FEI are hoping the recommendations will stamp out doping and protect riders and their horses.

Ben Maher aiming high at Windsor

Ben Maher lies second, just 1.83 penalty points off the lead, going into the final day of the European Championship Showjumping at Windsor Castle.

The 26-year-old is aiming high in an effort to join John Whitaker, Paddy MacMahon, David Barker and David Broome as Britain's only individual title-winners.

Italy's Natale Chiaudani leads, with Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum, Albert Zoer and Steve Guerdat also pressing Maher.