Text © World of Showjumping

Jessica Kürten has been appointed as new Chair of the FEI Athletes’ Committee for the term 2022-2026. Maria Gretzer has held the position as Chair since 2013, and will now be replaced by Kürten – herself an accomplished showjumper that for years was a mainstay on the Irish team, and that in 2007 won the IJRC Top 10 Final – one of only two female riders to do so through the history of the final.

Although Kürten no longer competes herself, she is today a much sought-after trainer and a familiar face on the international showjumping scene. “The equestrian sport has always been my passion,” Kürten said to World of Showjumping. “My job as trainer and some commentary is very fulfilling, and to now add this role is exciting. I will do my very best to listen and understand the voices of our athletes.”

The FEI Athletes’ Committee consists of the FEI Athlete Representatives from the different FEI Technical Committees – across the disciplines of dressage, driving, endurance, eventing, jumping, vaulting and para-dressage. The FEI Athletes’ Committee plays a vital role, and provides a voice to the athlete community, within the global FEI decision-making process. For the jumping riders, Rodrigo Pessoa was recently elected as the FEI Athlete Representative for the term 2022-2026.