BRITISH Dressage announced what it termed a ‘huge personnel boost’ to their international dressage teams this week, following an extensive recruitment drive.

Selector roles on the panels covering Senior, Para and Under 21s were advertised earlier this autumn. A number of high-calibre applications were received and following an interview process, three appointments have been made:-

Senior selectors – Jill Day, a former BD Training Director, joins Jenny Ward and Chief Selector Judy Harvey, BD’s International Director, to complete the panel. A prominent figure in dressage for many years, Jill has a wealth of experience and knowledge as an international Grand Prix rider and a UKCC Level 3 trainer/mentor, as well as a former U21 Selector, and replaces David Trott who completed two terms on the panel.

Para selectors – Islay Auty FBHS, a List 2 BD judge and BDCC Level 3 professional coach joins the panel alongside Joyce Head and Jane McGarel-Groves. Joyce will take on the role as Chief Selector, following the retirement of Carolyn Gardiner.

Islay has been involved in a number of key roles with British Dressage, including as a former U21 Selector, and brings over five decades of experience both as a judge and a coach to the group.

Under 21 selectors – List 1 judge and trainer Richard Baldwin will join Chief Selector Nikki Herbert and Leanne Wall to form a panel of three to select the Pony, Children, Junior and Young Rider teams to compete internationally.

Richard is highly regarded as a judge, including at U21 level, has international experience as a rider and was described as an ideal addition to the team.

Halsall and Storr appointed

Two Under 21 Coach Advisors have also been appointed to support BD’s youth international teams.

The two Coach Advisors will work closely with the U21 riders and help to oversee their journey through to the FEI European Championships for Ponies, Children on Horses, Juniors and Young Riders.

“Two of the world’s most highly respected FEI five-star judges and leading international trainers, Clive Halsall and Peter Storr, have been appointed to these important roles,” said the press release.

They will work closely with BD U21 Performance Manager Caroline Bell.

Bright future

Jason Brautigam, BD Chief Executive, added: “We were overwhelmed with the quality of applicants we had for the various roles to support our international teams – it really highlights what a wealth of experience and knowledge we have in the sport.

“We’re very fortunate that so many want to give back and play a vital part in our international development, helping us to build a bright future for our teams on the world stage.