The five FEI Awards categories are:
BEST GROOM
-For that important person who works behind the scenes and ensures the horses he or she looks after are given the best possible care.
AGAINST ALL ODDS
-For a person who has pursued his or her equestrian ambitions, despite a physical handicap or extremely difficult personal circumstances.
HSBC RISING STAR
-For a person aged 14 to 21 who demonstrates outstanding sporting talent and commitment.
DEVELOPMENT
-For a person or organization dedicated to making equestrian sport accessible to a wider public.
REEM ACRA BEST ATHLETE
-For the athlete (equine or human) or combination that, over the past year, has demonstrated exceptional skill in the arena and taken the sport to a new level.
The nominations
Nominations in five categories are open to the equestrian community worldwide.
A jury of international experts chaired by FEI President HRH Princess Haya will select the winners.
Deadline for nominations: 31 July 2012
The ceremony:
Winners will be flown to Istanbul (TUR) to receive their awards. The FEI Awards Ceremony will take place during a gala dinner on 8 November and will be attended by representatives from the 132 National Federations affiliated to the FEI.
For more information please visit http://www.feiawards.org/.
About United States Para-Equestrian Association:
The USPEA is a network of riders, judges, national federation board members, and equestrian enthusiasts. The association gives athletes the ability to get involved and expand their knowledge and experience in the Para-Equestrian sport. The USPEA encourages para-athletes to participate in all disciplines under the para-equestrian umbrella.
The USPEA is a recognized affiliate of the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) which serves as the National Governing Body for the equestrian sport. This relationship between the USPEA and USEF is to encourage para-equestrian competitors, leisure riders, coaches, fans and enthusiasts to network and get involved with the entire equestrian sport.
Ultimately the goal of the USPEA is to foster growth in the para-equestrian discipline. From growth in the number of participants to growth as a team, and growth in the experience and knowledge of all involved. From local horse shows to international Olympic Games, the USPEA will provide para-equestrians the knowledge of what they need to succeed. The USPEA connects with the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), the United States Dressage Federation (USDF), and USEF which provides Para-Equestrians the top equestrian resources.
In June 2010, the USPEA earned its 501 (c)(3) status which has encouraged supporters to help supply funding to the Para-Equestrian Team as a recognized affiliate of the United States Equestrian Federation(USEF).
For more information about the USPEA please visit www.USPEA.org or contact USPEA President Hope Hand by e-mail: Wheeler966@aol.com or by phone: (610)356-6481.