The FEI has announced new awards in the equestrian industry to celebrate the best of the best in the five categories.

The awards have been created to put a spotlight on the men, women, youngsters who have selflessly contributed to the progress and excellence of equestrian sport. This is the first ever opportunity for the public to nominate from the categories below; from the top international athletes to the everyday heroes around the world. The launch of the FEI Awards is designed to encourage fans and followers of equestrian sports to pay tribute to those they feel deserve to be recognised and celebrated on the global equestrian stage.

The Competition

• Nominations open to the worldwide equestrian community
• Jury of international experts chaired by the FEI President
• 5 Award categories across all disciplines and regions
• Deadline for entries: 17 October 2009

The Ceremony

• 19 November 2009 in Copenhagen, Denmark during the traditional FEI Gala dinner
• Winners will be invited to the ceremony to receive their awards
• They will celebrate with representatives of the 133 National Federations
• They will commemorate their achievements and hard work in a celebratory atmosphere

Award Categories:

Best Groom Award
The hunt is on for this behind-the-scenes figure. Now is your opportunity to nominate this vital – yet often uncelebrated – member of the competition family. We are looking for those who at whatever time of the day or night, regardless of the weather take care and protect the equine athlete. The rosette moment has now come to acknowledge and thank these real unsung superstars.

Against All Odds Award
Celebrating a disabled rider of any age from around the world who has proved that disability need not hinder sporting ambition and prowess. This is your opportunity to celebrate those athletes that know no obstacles on the path to excellence. We want to hear about those exceptional riders and drivers who – at whatever level – have become the inspiration of the entire community.

Rising Star Award
Awarded to a rider between the age of 14 to 21 who in your eyes has not only demonstrated significant talent but also love of the sport, dedication and practice. At whatever stage in their young career and regardless of the placings, this is your opportunity to acknowledge a young rider you feel has gone that extra mile. From any discipline and from any continent at whatever level, nominate and celebrate the faces of tomorrow.

Development Award
Awarded to a developing project, an individual or an organization who have shown exceptional skill, dedication and energy in developing the sport. As grass roots development is vital to the future of the sport, we are looking to acknowledge the unsung heroes around the world who tirelessly educate, train and reach out to new fans and riders. This is your opportunity to nominate a trainer, coach, owner, rider, project or organisaiton you feel deserves to be applauded for their untiring dedication and passion. Now is the time for them to take centre stage.

Best Athlete Award
Awarder to a rider, driver or vaulter who over the last year has shown exceptional sportsmanship and equestrian prowess taking the sport to a new level. We are looking for nominations of top athletes from around the world who you feel deserve to be acknowledged, thanked and applauded. This is your opportunity to help us celebrate outstanding talent, fair play and team spirit. An inspirational figure from any discipline you feel this year has been a role model to the global equestrian audience.

To make your nomination, click on the link below.