Very sadly, Lars Parmler passed away on August 22nd. 

Parmler, one of the founders of Gothenburg Horse Show and one of the key persons behind the Volvo World Cup back in the 1980s – now titled the FEI World Cup – left us at the age of 75. 

Parmler was very active in the showjumping sport – both nationally and internationally – as a rider, trainer as well as Chef d’Equipe. During his career, Parmler was Chef d’Equipe and/or coach for Sweden, Norway and Finland. Together with his wife Liz, he also ran a riding school in the early days of his career and later he became an equestrian commentator for Swedish television. 

Together, Lars and Liz had two children: Malin (34) and Niclas (44) – both are following in Lars’ footsteps, as successful showjumpers. 

In a tribute to Parmler, Swedish Olympian Lisen Bratt Fredricson writes: “I'm so grateful that I and so many other riders got to be a part of your knowledge, your wisdom and your stories. I remember, for example, when we were going to jump the biggest triple bar I had seen to that date on a training session and that we had to close our eyes two strides before to practice feeling and courage. Lasse then said I was brave in such a way that I often think of how it inspired me. You really shared your enormous knowledge in a nice and clear – often painting way – to us riders (…) Thank you for everything Lasse.”

Our thoughts go out to Lars’ family and friends.