CEO Update - January 2024

I hope this message finds you in good health as we embark on the new year.  We have an exciting year ahead with the Paris 2024 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games just around the corner.

The equestrian events in Paris run from 27 July to 6 August and are to be held in the spectacular grounds of the Palace of Versailles. Some of our team visited the Olympic site at the end of last year for a briefing on preparations and the facilities that will be available to our athletes and support team during the Games period.  They were pleased with the plans and progress of the venue.

The Paralympic Games will be just as exciting, with the Para-Dressage events running from 3-7 September at the same venue. Our National Para-Dressage Squad recently had the opportunity to attend an off-horse training camp at the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) for some education workshops on the Paralympic Games as well as interactive development activities – a great experience for the team.

Australia now has teams qualified across all disciplines and our top athletes, whether they are located here in Australia or overseas, will be working towards their Minimum Eligibility Requirements (MER) and selection over the next few months. The anticipation is building across the sport and I have no doubt that our team will make us proud.

As we lead up to the Games we have a Communications Plan in place to build anticipation and support for the sport across the equestrian community. The Games are great opportunity to continue to build equestrian sports and to drive us forward for the future.

In addition to the Paris Games, Equestrian Australia has a significant lineup of events and initiatives planned for the year. We will continue to foster the growth of our sport at all levels, from grassroots to elite.  Our focus will be on providing quality training programs and events, promoting participation, and enhancing the overall experience for our members.

The Equestrian Australia Board continue to make progress on the structural reform in consultation with State Branches and we will keep you up to date over the coming weeks and months.

As we move forward I encourage you to stay engaged with Equestrian Australia and take advantage of the numerous opportunities that lie ahead. Whether you are a rider, coach, an official, or supporter, your presence and participation are vital to the continued success of our sport.

On behalf of the entire Equestrian Australia team, I wish you a great 2024 as we embrace the challenges and celebrate the victories together.