Press release from FEI

The FEI is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of legendary British Jumping course designer Robert ‘Bob’ Ellis, a respected and influential figure in equestrian sport. 

Affectionately known to many in the equestrian community as "Bob the Builder", Ellis dedicated more than four decades to course design and made a significant contribution to the sport. Respected for his technical expertise as an international Jumping Judge, Course Designer and Technical Delegate, he worked with athletes, officials and organisers at the highest level of international competition.

The pinnacle of his distinguished career came in 2012 when he served as Jumping Course Designer for the London Olympic Games. Staged in the spectacular setting of Greenwich Park, the London 2012 equestrian events are remembered as a great Olympic success, and Ellis’s beautifully crafted courses played a central role in delivering a fair, challenging and unforgettable competition.

A former rider himself, Ellis began building courses in the early 1970s and went on to become an FEI International Course Designer in 1989. During an extraordinary career, he worked in more than 30 countries and designed courses for many of the sport’s most prestigious events, including FEI World Cup™ competitions, Nations Cups, European Championships and some of the world's leading horse shows. He was a familiar and much-loved presence at iconic venues such as the London International Horse Show, Hickstead and the Royal Windsor Horse Show.

While his professional achievements were exceptional, Bob Ellis will perhaps be remembered most for his generosity and kindness. A mentor to countless aspiring course designers, he was always willing to share his knowledge and experience, helping to develop the next generation of officials and contributing to the continued growth of Jumping worldwide. His calm demeanour, dry sense of humour and genuine love for the sport made him a friend to many across the international equestrian community.

FEI Jumping Director Todd Hinde paid tribute to Ellis's remarkable legacy: "Bob Ellis was one of the true greats of our sport. His courses combined technical excellence with fairness and imagination. Beyond his extraordinary achievements, he will be remembered for his warmth, generosity and willingness to support and inspire others. On behalf of the FEI, I extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and all those who had the privilege of working with him."