Mark Todd joins judging team for FEI awards

Chaired by FEI President HRH Princess Haya, who herself show jumped at Olympic level, the group comprises judges, competitors, organisers and sponsors from the four corners of the globe.

Eventing and show jumping Olympian and multiple medalist Mark Todd joins Dominican Republic dressage rider and judge Diana Ramos, Italian show jumping organiser Eleonora Ottaviani and German vaulting champion Kai Vorberg on the panel, along with representatives from key FEI sponsors Alltech and HSBC.

All the judges have extensive experience in the horse world on many levels. The awards have been designed to reward the fair play, team spirit, inspiration and prowess that equine competition espouses, as well as celebrating the outstanding achievements of our often-underrated athletes.

The five categories are:

• Athlete of the Year - for a rider, driver or vaulter who has shown exceptional sportsmanship and ability

• HSBC Rising Star -for a rider aged 14-21 who has not only demonstrated significant talent but also a love of the sport and great commitment

• Alltech Development award - for a development project, individual or organisation which has shown exceptional skill, dedication and energy in expanding the sport

• Against All Odds - for a disabled rider of any age who has demonstrated that disability is no hindrance to sporting proficiency

• Groom of the Year - for the often uncelebrated yet vitally important person who works behind the scenes

Nominations for the awards close on October 17. The winners of each category will be invited to the traditional FEI Gala dinner on 19 November held on the occasion of the FEI General Assembly in Copenhagen, Denmark.