Equestrianism seems to be becoming more popular amongst the celebrity ranks, and now a major Hollywood actor and director has spoken out in support of the FEI's 2010 Awards.

American actor and director Robert Duvall has given his support to the annual awards organised by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), the governing body of horse sport. The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) launched the “Oscars of the equestrian world” last year to reward outstanding dedication to horse sport in five categories. Calls for nominations for the 2010 awards opened on July 16.

Celebrity support

Hollywood legend Duvall is best-known for his roles in The Apostle, Apocalypse Now, The Godfather and Tender Mercies. His performances have earned him an Academy Award, a BAFTA, two Emmys and four Golden Globe Awards.

Commenting on the 2010 FEI Awards, Duvall said: “The 2010 FEI Awards give you the opportunity to nominate and celebrate those individuals who, without asking for recognition, should be thanked and acknowledged for their own contribution to equestrian sport around the world. As someone with a passion for horses, I urge you to nominate anyone you feel is worthy of the awards and help them to walk the red carpet at the 2010 FEI Awards in Taiwan.”

Riding on film

Duvall has been a keen horseman since his childhood, when he often visited his uncle’s ranch in northern Montana. He has demonstrated his riding skills in several films, including Broken Trail (2006), in which he plays gruff rancher Print Ritter, and Lonesome Dove, the 1989 classic miniseries which saw him leading an epic cattle drive.

Nominations for the 2010 FEI Awards are open until 30 August 2010. Further information is available at www.feiawards.org.