Laura Collett and London 52. Photo by Tilly Berendt.
Three eventers are recognized on the nomination list for this year’s FEI Awards, given annually at the end of season to deserving individuals and organizations.
Among the nominees are 2025 European champion Laura Collett (GBR) for Peden Bloodstock FEI Best Athlete, which celebrates the best athletes across each FEI discipline. Laura is joined on the list by dressage athlete Justin Verboomen (BEL), endurance rider Marijke Visser (NED) and show jumper Richard Vogel (GER).
Thijs Boon (BEL) is nominated for the FEI Rising Star Award, given to young athletes who are emerging on the international scene. Thijs, 17, was fourth in the FEI Eventing European Championships for Juniors and Young Riders this year with his father and Dutch Olympic rider Maarten Boon’s (really a “family horse” as Maarten describes it; he himself competed the KWPN mare through the 4* and World Championships levels) Gravin van Cantos. This pair to watch hasn’t finished outside of the top five in FEI competition since they teamed up in 2024!
Last but definitively not least is Adam Short, who’s been Tom McEwen’s top groom (and, let’s face it, life manager/coach/therapist, probably) for five years, nominated for Cavalor FEI Best Groom.
You can view the full list of nominations, which include those for the FEI Inspire Award that recognizes initiatives and individuals who make an impact on equestrian sport, as well as learn how to cast your votes here.
