Her Majesty The Queen has presented top dressage rider Carl Hester with an award for his ‘outstanding services to equestrianism’ (16 May).
‘Proud’
Carl received the British Horse Society (BHS) Queen’s Award for Equestrianism at the RoyalWindsor Horse Show, after being unanimously voted for by the BHS and British Dressage.
Claire Aldridge, chairman of the BHS said there was “no greater recipient” for the award.
“Not only has he made his country so proud with his own achievements, but he has so generously put such passion into developing the success of others – all the time keeping the welfare of the horse at heart,” she said.
Olympic gold
Carl has represented Team GB in four Olympic Games, leading the team to Britain’s first ever Olympic dressage title when they won gold at London 2012. He has also won six individual and team medals at the European Championships and World Equestrian Games since 2009.
It’s not just his contribution as a rider, Carl’s mentoring and coaching has helped change the face of British dressage. Were it not for Carl the world would never have seen the great equestrian duo, Charlotte Dujardin and his own horse Valegro.
‘Incredibly special’
Jason Brautigam, chief executive of British Dressage, said Carl’s role within the sport goes “far beyond being an ambassador and mentor”.
“He has fostered a team spirit within the dressage community that hasn’t previously existed,” he said. “Carl’s contribution has been immense – his commitment is selfless, as is his generosity of spirit. He is not just concerned with his personal results but about the long term development of the sport.”
On receiving his award, Carl said: “Working with horses is my life, it is an amazing privilege to receive this recognition for doing something I love. And to receive this award from the Queen is incredibly special.”