During 2016, World of Showjumping will bring our readers regular news from the International Jumping Riders Club. Below is the latest newsletter from the IJRC.
First of all, we must congratulate all the fantastic medalists of RIO 2016!
From the beginning, it was an event of high level of sport, a thrilling competition from the beginning to the end with fierce and competitive teams, which gave a deserved victory to France! France was very unlucky at the beginning, but was strong and able enough to do an encore of the gold medal already won in eventing.
USA – that in spite of the withdrawal of Cortes – was going on competing to win the silver medal, and bronze medalist Germany which ended with six Olympics medals to finish as the best federation of the country in the medals table.
We had the privilege to be present at the “second life of Nick Skelton”; a spectacular performance that let us reflect and think on what makes our sport unique – permitting an older athlete to have a such a long career crowned with an Olympic achievement.
A podium of real champions, and horses that we for sure can describe as the best worldwide. Big Star, really a “Big Star”! Peder Fredricson’s All Inn showed from the beginning what a crack he is, recording only one time penalty during the entire Games. And what about Eric Lamaze’s Fine Lady? Clear all the way to the jump-off.
The IJRC is very happy to underline the fact that these equestrian Olympics have been really nice and agreeable, a carefully organization – helpful and flexible when necessary. All this made it possible that this Olympic travel, previously so much under discussion, has become one of the more sensational major events of the last 20 years!
The atmosphere was really pleasant, undoubtedly much to take as an example and to imitate: The Latin and South American spirit.
Therefore, the IJRC feels his self obliged to thank: The whole Brazilians organization, particularly Luiz Roberto Giugni and Erica Sportiello. The whole staff and headquarters of the FEI, always helpful and able to create a warmly atmosphere. And a very big thanks to all the volunteers, always very friendly and smiling.
Not to forget, moreover, that all the anti-doping tests, both horses and humans were negative. This is a result the FEI President and all those that have been involved in education and anti-doping campaigns can be proud of.
Our thoughts also go to the unlucky ones, such as Simon Delestre and Marcus Ehning, to whom we wish great success in the future.
But now this beautiful dream is finished and we start again with a new season, full of sporting dates, important meetings and a lot of work. But we are sure that work and cooperation between the different lobbies and institutions can go on, and achieve more and better results for our sport.
Eleonora Ottaviani
IJRC Director