Jessica von Bredow-Werndl Receives 2023 FEI Best Athlete Award
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Nov. 22, 2023
Germany’s Jessica von Bredow-Werndl has received the Peden Bloodstock FEI Best Athlete Award for 2023.
Jessica and her Olympic gold medal mount, TSF Dalera BB, are both ranked No. 1 in the world.
“Dalera is probably the most intelligent horse I’ve ever worked with so far in my life!” said Jessica by video link to the awards ceremony in Mexico City. “She is the cuddliest version when we are in the stable and walking together, and she is a rock star when we enter the arena. Dalera and I have a very special relationship. We love each other and we love what we are doing together. And this is something I really have to think of as a rider–how can I make my horses love me? And how can I make my horses love what we are doing?
“I always say don’t train hard, but train smart. Sometimes I think: How is it possible to feel so much love for so many animals and people? But it’s exactly what makes riding horses so special.”
Jessica won six individual European Championship titles, World Cup Final title the past two years as well as double gold at the Olympic Games in Tokyo.
The 19-year-old jumping rider Mimi Gochman of the United States took home the FEI Rising Star Award
Emma Uusi-Simola of Finland clinched the FEI Best Groom Award in recognition of her dedication and hard work as groom for Swiss jumper rider Steve Guerdat.
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.
Federico Fernández Senderos of Mexico won the newly created FEI Inspire Award. Federico, at the age 19, was one of three people to survive a plane crash in which more than 50 people were killed. After months of intensive recovery and with a new take on life, Federico returned to competition and has gone on to become one of Mexico’s best-known jumping athletes.
