Cian O’Connor has been elected as the FEI Athlete Representative for the discipline of jumping, following an online vote that closed on the 23rd of September. The Irish rider will now join the FEI Jumping Committee and the FEI Athletes’ Committee, and takes office this week.

O'Connor follows Brazil's Rodrigo Pessoa, who has been FEI Athlete Representative for jumping for the last four years. 

On his official Facebook page, O'Connor states: "Thanks to all my peers who voted for me to join the FEI Athletes Committee and the Jumping Committee of the FEI. I look forward to representing the riders and to further promote and develop the sport of Showjumping globally".

A total of 52 athletes from 26 countries on five continents stood for election in the different disciplines, which was conducted via a secure online voting platform. This was the second time in the FEI’s history that athlete elections have been held, marking a 100% increase in participation in numbers of candidates and a 160% increase in terms of nations compared to 2014. 

“The athletes’ viewpoint is central to the global decision making process,” FEI Secretary General Sabrina Ibáñez said. “This is a committee made up of athletes and voted for by athletes. The calibre and experience of the newly elected Athletes Committee is impressive and will ensure that the global athletes’ community has its say and actively contributes to the development of equestrian sport. I also want to take this opportunity to thank the outgoing Athletes’ Committee members for their tremendous work and support these past four years.”

Source: Press release from FEI // Cian O'Connor's official Facebook page

Photo © Jenny Abrahamsson