FEI Awards 2024: Celebrating Equestrian Excellence

The Fédération Équestre Internationale (FEI) Awards are back to honor the unsung heroes and emerging stars of the equestrian world. With nominations covering diverse categories such as young rising talents, seasoned athletes, behind-the-scenes grooms, and inspirational figures, the FEI Awards 2024 promise to spotlight excellence across the equestrian spectrum. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian enthusiast or just curious, there's much to appreciate about this initiative. Let's delve into the intricacies of these prestigious awards and why they matter.

Voting Now Open: Make Your Vote Count!

Equestrian fans, this is your moment. The voting for the FEI Awards 2024 has officially commenced, and it's your chance to voice support for those who inspire excellence in equestrian sports. Voting will run until 13 October 2024, midnight Central European Time (CET). You can participate by visiting the FEI website or using the Chinese social media app WeChat.

Exploring the Categories and Nominees

To capture the essence of equestrian achievements, the FEI Awards are divided into four noteworthy categories, each focusing on a different aspect of excellence:

Longines FEI Rising Star

This category recognizes young talents aged 14 to 21 who are already making waves in the equestrian world. The nominees are as follows:

  • Chiara Zenati, a 21-year-old French Para Dressage athlete who secured a fourth place at the 2024 Paralympic Games.
  • Omar Abdul Aziz Al Marzooqi, from the United Arab Emirates, who stood out as the youngest Jumping athlete at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
  • Jessica Dertell, a 20-year-old Australian competing at the international Grand Prix level in Dressage.
  • Mathies Rüder, a German athlete excelling in Eventing and Jumping at the age of 19.

Peden Bloodstock FEI Best Athlete

This award celebrates equestrian athletes who've shown exceptional prowess and pushed the boundaries of their sport:

  • Christian Kukuk from Germany, who clinched the individual Jumping gold at the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
  • Laura Collett from Great Britain, admired for both her comeback story from injury and her participation in defending Olympic Eventing team gold.
  • Théo Gardies from France, who grasped his first world title in Vaulting in Bern, Switzerland.
  • Bram Chardon of The Netherlands, celebrated for winning world team gold and individual silver at the FEI Driving World Championships 2024.

Cavalor FEI Best Groom

Often overlooked, grooms play a pivotal role in a horse's success. This category commends those dedicated professionals ensuring the utmost horse welfare, vital for any equestrian achievement.

FEI Inspire Award

This award acknowledges individuals or organizations serving as role models within the community, driven by their passion for equestrianism:

  • Georgina Urwin from Great Britain, lauded for her work with Summerfield Stables.
  • The Namibian Equestrian Federation for their “Enabling Through the Horse” program.
  • Dr. Salom Nghinamito from Namibia, recognized as an FEI Permitted Treating Veterinarian.
  • Lucinda Green of Great Britain, respected for her cross-country coaching with the Lucinda Green Academy.

Voting Process: How Winners Are Decided

Winners of the FEI Awards 2024 will be decided through a combination of public and expert judge votes. The outcome is determined with public votes constituting 50% and the remainder by votes from a panel of seven judges who are experts in the field. This balanced approach ensures that both popular sentiment and expert opinions shape the final results.

The Glamorous Awards Gala in Abu Dhabi

The celebration of equestrian excellence will culminate in an exquisite awards gala presented by Longines on 13 November 2024 in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Nominees will be flown in to be lauded for their achievements amidst a backdrop of glamor and grandeur.

Why the FEI Awards Matter

Since their inception in 2009, the FEI Awards have played a crucial role in highlighting the diverse contributions to equestrian sports. From recognizing athletic feats to honoring the quiet dedication of grooms and the inspirational actions of community influencers, these awards showcase the profound impact of equestrian sports globally. Whether you're adding a vote or simply following the results, your engagement emphasizes the cherished bond between us and our equestrian companions.

To cast your vote and partake in applauding equestrian excellence, visit the official FEI website before the vote ends on 13 October 2024. Your participation can make a significant difference in honoring those who embody excellence in the equestrian arena.

For more information, visit the FEI website: FEI Official Website.