FEI launches Year of Youth

Horse sport's world governing body has launched it first ever Year of Youth – a yearlong celebration of youth equestrianism – which will run from August 2009 to August 2010 when the Youth Olympic Games will take place in Singapore.

For the first time young people will come together overcoming geographical barriers by using a unique online platform delivered by the FEI.

“Equestrian sport is fortunate to have a generation of ambitious and hard working young people emerging onto the international stage,” said FEI President HRH Princess Haya. “We fully intend to find innovative ways to listen to them and celebrate their talent.” “Our goal for the Year of Youth is to ensure we hear the opinions of the competitors, grooms, fans, volunteers and support teams of all those aged 12 and 21 involved in equestrian sport in order to help us best shape and drive the sport in the future,” FEI Youth Director Nici Kennedy said.

“It is a tremendous opportunity and we are really looking forward to hearing from a great diversity of perspectives.”

To achieve this goal and engage with the young people across all disciplines worldwide in an innovative, interactive and fun manner, the FEI has deliberately sought out the latest media most popular with this audience. The Year of Youth activities will be largely taking place online through a dedicated website.