The public vote for the FEI Awards 2018 is open. For a second consecutive year the public gets to vote and celebrate its equestrian heroes following publication of the shortlisted nominees today. 

A record of outstanding achievements on the field of play, horsemanship, commitment and behind-the-scenes dedication are just some of the qualities of the 20 nominees selected across the five categories.

The shortlisted nominees for the FEI Awards 2018 are:

Longines Rising Star – for the young stars aged 14 to 21 who demonstrate outstanding sporting talent and commitment.

Felix Koller (AUT), Jumping

Esmee Donkers (NED), Dressage

Victor Levecque (FRA), Eventing

Bunty Howard (ZAM), Jumping

Best Athlete - paying tribute to some incredible performances during the year, notably at the FEI World Equestrian Games™ Tryon 2018 and the Asian Games, which took the sport to a new level.

Simone Blum (GER), Jumping

Yoshiaki Oiwa (JPN), Eventing

Lambert Leclezio (FRA), Vaulting

Stinna Kaastrup (DEN), Para Dressage

Best Groom - for the behind-the-scenes hero who ensures the horses he or she looks after are given the best possible care.

Lucy Miles (NZL), Eventing, groom for Jonelle and Tim Price

Alex Tyler-Morris (GBR), Jumping, groom for Harrie Smolders

Lee McKeever (USA), Jumping, groom for McLain Ward 

Steffi Wiegard (GER), Dressage, head groom for Isabell Werth

Against All Odds - for an inspiring individual who has pursued their equestrian ambitions and overcome challenges and obstacles along the way. 

Sammie Fritz (USA), Dressage

Leila Malki (PLE), Jumping

Sara Morganti (ITA), Para Dressage

Kate Shoemaker (USA), Para Dressage

FEI Solidarity - for an FEI Solidarity or equestrian development project, an individual or organisation that has demonstrated skill, dedication and energy in expanding the sport.

Julie Battams and Equine Pathways (AUS)  

The Horsemanship charity programme (CHN) 

Riders of Hope (BIH)

Mercedes Campdera (MEX)

Make sure you have your say and vote via this link.

The online public vote will be open from 5 to 15 October and will count for 50%, with a panel of expert judges deciding the remaining 50%.

The winners will be announced at the FEI Awards 2018 Gala presented by Longines in Manama, Bahrain on 20 November.