23 November 2015, Puerto Rico ~ The five winners of the FEI Awards 2015, the Oscars of the equestrian world, were presented with their awards by Hollywood actress Bo Derek at a Longines sponsored glittering gala dinner in the Puerto Rican capital city of San Juan on 14 November.
Saluting the heroes of today and tomorrow for their outstanding contribution to equestrian sport, the FEI Awards 2015 – in association with the FEI’s Top Partner Longines and international fashion designer Reem Acra – applauded what has been an amazing 2015 sporting year, honouring the pursuit of excellence and rising talent.
The five winners, recognized for their significant achievements and willingness to demonstrate their passion for developing equestrian sport, are:
Longines Rising Star – Jessica Mendoza (GBR)
Reem Acra Best Athlete – Boyd Exell (AUS)
Best Groom – Jose Eduardo (Eddie) Garcia Luna (USA)
Against All Odds – Oriana Ricca Marmissolle (URU)
FEI Solidarity – Les Chevaux qui pansent les plaies (Horses that heal wounds) (HAI)
The equestrian stars flew in from around the globe for a spectacular evening of glitz and glamour in the presence of over 350 distinguished guests, including National Federation representatives, FEI partners, VIPs and international media. On stage with Bo Derek and no stranger to success himself, was Puerto Rican actor and celebrated radio host Braulio Castillo Jr who served as master of ceremonies.
“We are here tonight to honor and acknowledge the dedication, commitment and passion of our athletes and other equestrian heroes”, FEI President Ingmar de Vos said. “The FEI Awards recognise talent and excellence in all aspects of equestrian sport across the globe. We know that all tonight’s winners will continue to achieve distinction, whatever their involvement in our sport, and it is humbling to meet such incredible individuals, and celebrate their achievements.”
“It is a real honor to work so closely with the FEI Awards and to present these awards to such talented individuals, highlighting their contributions to the world of equestrian sport”, Chair of the Jury for the FEI Awards 2015 Bo Derek said. “I am really excited to share in celebrations endorsing the commitment, dedication and hard work of these incredible people and this amazing sport, developing well-rounded and confident individuals. We hope that tonight will raise the profile of the sport even higher and motivate others to strive to achieve their goals.”
“I would like to offer my sincere congratulations to the recipients of these prestigious awards, and particularly to Jessica Mendoza, winner of the Longines Rising Star Award”, Longines’ Vice President and Head of International Marketing Juan-Carlos Capelli said. “Longines is proud to recognize the achievements of these up and coming athletes on the global stage, for their dedication and willingness to achieve. They are a true inspiration to the sport.”
“There is an abundance of talent across the many equestrian disciplines and certain athletes who stand out for their performance, longevity and continuous achievement. I am very proud to be associated with this prestigious award for Best Athlete,” FEI Partner Reem Acra said.
More About the Five Winners:http://fei.org/news/glitz-glamour-and-greatness-honouring-our-equestrian-heroes%E2%80%A6