When the Swedish Equestrian Federation awards the honorary title Swedish Elite Rider for the first time, three well-known equestrian names receive the title, which was presented during the Sweden International Horse Show.
Dressage icon Jan Brink, eventing expert Piia Pantsu, and showjumping star Rolf-Göran Bengtsson can now be called Swedish Elite Riders, following the decision of the Swedish Equestrian Federation's Professional Test Committee and the Riding School and Education Section. The award is a way for the Swedish Equestrian Federation to express gratitude to this trio of stars for their contributions as horse educators, trainers, young horse trainers, and riders. The award was presented on Saturday by the president of the Swedish Equestrian Federation, Sandra Ruuda, at the Friends Arena.
Showjumping maestro Rolf-Göran Bengtsson has been part of the global elite in showjumping for decades and is one of Sweden's most successful showjumpers of all time. He has won two Olympic medals and several European Championship medals, most recently a team gold at this summer's European Championship in Milan.
Dressage legend Jan Brink has competed in multiple Olympics, won both World and European Championship medals, placed in the World Cup Final, and won the Aachen Dressage Championship, among other achievements. He is also a trained A-level dressage coach.
Eventing guru Piia Pantsu has a track record that includes World Championship medals and placements in prestigious events like Badminton and the World Cup Final. She has also served as a national coach and team trainer in both eventing and showjumping and is currently a teacher at the national facility Flyinge.
Swedish Elite Rider is the highest title for riders and is awarded very selectively.
Source: Ridsport