Peder Fredricson received Sweden’s most prestigious sports award at last night’s Swedish Sports Gala.

The ‘Jerring Prize’ is awarded to a Swedish athlete for a successful sports achievement during the past year, and what makes it very special is that it’s also the people’s choice award as the Swedish public cast their votes for the nominees. Peder – silver medalist at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio with his horse H&M All In – was up against some great competition, with one of the world’s best golfers Henrik Stenson as his last challenger for the award. But, after the silver medal at the Olympic Games as well as other fantastic achievements in 2016 – Peder got the most votes and was crowned the winner of this highly rated award.

In his speech Peder first of all thanked H&M All In, and said that the prize belonged just as much to him and the team around him. He then went on to thank H&M All In's owner for daring to buy him, and for daring to keep him. Peder also thanked his family, team and of course everyone voting for him. Fredricson's speech was beautiful, with focus on the magical connection between horse and rider which makes equestrian sports so special.