Photo by Tilly Berendt.
A few personnel and staffing changes at the FEI lead off our news round-up this morning as the international governing body has announced a new Director of Eventing to replace Catrin Norinder upon retirement after 37 years of service.
For her part, Catrin Norinder has been involved in the organization of equestrian sports at the Olympic Games starting with Seoul the same year she was hired (1988). She also played a key role in the creation of the Eventing Risk Management Program.
Frédérique Reffet Plantier will take over as Director of Eventing in 2025. Photo courtesy of the FEI.
Frédérique Reffet Plantier will now step up to replace Catrin, effective January 1, 2025. Catrin will stay on in a consulting role for the first part of 2025 to assist with the handover of the role. An FEI press release about the appointment reads:
Working with the FEI since 2012, Reffet Plantier started in the Eventing and Olympic Department working closely with the Director and colleagues on all aspects of event and competition management, FEI Committee administration, and the development of risk management practices within the discipline.
In 2021, she transitioned into the role of Senior Manager within the office of the FEI Secretary General, allowing her to gain valuable experience in governance and decision-making, significantly expanding her skill set in both leadership and management.
“Throughout her time at the FEI, we have had the pleasure of observing Frédérique’s significant contributions across her various roles,” FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez said.
“She has approached each challenge with unwavering professionalism and has demonstrated an exceptional ability to manage complex projects.
“Frédérique is well placed to take on this key role within the organisation, with her comprehensive knowledge of the Eventing discipline and her familiarity with the internal workings of the FEI governance structures. Her inclusive and supportive nature has made her a trusted and valued member of the FEI team at our headquarters in Lausanne and we are excited to see the next chapter of the FEI Eventing Department develop under her leadership.”
Chair of the FEI Eventing Committee and former Olympic Eventing gold medallist from the USA, David O’Connor said, “Frédérique brings to the Director’s position a deep understanding of the operational framework of the Eventing discipline, practical experience in implementing these elements at events worldwide, and a sound awareness of horses as an avid equestrian herself.
“Throughout her involvement in the sport’s evolution, Frédérique has played a crucial role in significant decisions, including changes to the Olympic format and advancements in Eventing Risk Management.
“Having witnessed Frédérique’s growth within the sport, I am confident that her respect for its history, combined with her openness to new approaches for future advancement, makes her the ideal candidate for the Director of Eventing position.”
In other personnel news from the FEI, its Communications Director, Olivia Robinson, has also departed from her role after 18 years of service. The governing body will now reassess its operations and departments with findings to be reported in the coming months.
U.S. Weekend Preview
The Maryland H.T. + Area II Championships at Loch Moy Farm (MD): [Website] [Entries] [Ride Times] [Scoring] [Volunteer]
Woodside Fall International (CA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]
Ocala Fall H.T. (FL): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times] [Volunteeer]
Apple Knoll Farm H.T. (MA): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times]
Miami Valley H.T. at Twin Towers (OH): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring] [Volunteer]
Middle Tennessee Pony Club H.T. (TN): [Website] [Entries/Ride Times/Scoring]
News & Reading
Ocala’s World Equestrian Center housed 1,200 horses during Hurricane Helene. What goes into this effort to help keep horses and humans safe during extreme weather events? Read more here.
Tryon Equestrian Resort has also been providing updates from Helene as the North Carolina and Tennessee areas continue to recover from massive damages done by the storm.
Jockey Club Thoroughbred Incentive Program Championships, which were to be held at Stable View this weekend, have been postponed to October 24-27 as the venue continues to grapple with damage done as Helene moved through Aiken. Declarations and entries have subsequently been extended to October 15, and full refunds will be given to any competitors provided they scratch by October 4. More information here.
British Equestrian has unveiled a new Diversity and Inclusion Action Plan, which includes six key strategic objectives outlined through research for Horses For All. More information on this plan here.
How can you overcome the things that overwhelm you, especially when it comes to competitive environments? Coach Daniel Stewart has some advice in his latest “Pressure Proof” column for the USEA, and it involves things we can practice both in and out of the saddle. Read more here.
Sponsor Corner: Morven Park Fall International & H.T.
We can’t wait to spend “a day in the country” with you next weekend at the Morven Park Fall International & H.T.! With eventing action and championships happening at multiple levels, a slew of awards on offer for top performers, and plenty of ways to enhance the spectator experience, this is truly a fall event not to be missed. Tailgate and VIP opportunities start at just $150, and you can secure your spot here and here.
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Get excited for Morven Park with us!
