Mexico City, Mexico – November 22, 2023 – Mexico City’s Colegio de la Vizcainas provided a stunning backdrop for the 2023 edition of the FEI Awards Gala, presented by Longines, which celebrated international and home-grown winners across four categories of equestrian excellence.
The evening saw Emma Uusi-Simola (FIN) clinch this year’s prestigious Cavalor FEI Best Groom Award, in recognition of her outstanding dedication and hard work as groom for Swiss athlete Steve Guerdat (SUI).
Over the past decade, Emma has been an integral part of Steve’s team, demonstrating unwavering passion and commitment through the highs and lows of the sport. A trusted member of the Swiss team, Emma is often the groom of choice when travelling to equestrian events overseas is required. Her special bond with Steve’s horse Dynamix, her understanding of her athlete’s needs as well as her ability to anticipate and adapt to any situation has been pivotal to his success.
Receiving the award from Managing Director of Cavalor Liselotte Hamerlinck, Emma said, “I’m really pleased to get this FEI Cavalor Best Groom Award and it means a lot to me.
“Horses are my whole life. I love to work with them because they challenge me every day. All of them have their own personality, and I have to figure out how to handle each and every one of them.
“You need time to get to know the horses and it does not happen in one day. Some horses are easier and some horses are more difficult. With some of them you need two years to figure out what they like and don’t like.”
This year’s winners were decided by combining 50% of the public votes cast on FEI.org, and 50% of the judges’ votes. National Federations, FEI partners and stakeholders attended the FEI Awards, with well-known Mexican TV presenter Gloria Cazalda as Master of Ceremonies.
“All week during the FEI Hybrid General Assembly 2023, we have spoken about our role as governing bodies, what more we need to do to serve our sport and our stakeholders, and how we can build a better future for the next generation of equestrians,” FEI President Ingmar De Vos said.
“And tonight, we are celebrating the individuals who effectively inspire our decision-making process and the many discussions we have behind the scenes, so that we can provide them with the very best platform to thrive. So, this is a special night and I look forward to this occasion every year.
“Congratulations not just to our winners but also to everyone who was nominated for these Awards. And I also want to thank the sponsors – Peden Bloodstock, Cavalor and PIVO and especially our Top Partner Longines who also present the Gala evening. The FEI and Longines are kindred spirits and tonight is another example of our wonderful collaboration.
“I’m already looking forward to the 2024 edition!”
Source: FEI – Fédération Equestre Internationale
Photo: © FEI / Liz Gregg
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