The International Eventing Officials Club (IEOC) has become the third of the former FEI Associate Members to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the FEI.
The IEOC was formed in 1998 by Dr Bernd Springorum (GER), supported by Jean Mitchell MBE (IRE), to give a voice to Eventing Officials.
The independent organisation now has over 1,000 members including FEI Judges, Technical Delegates, Stewards, Course Designers and Organisers based around the world.
“The International Eventing Officials Club has been a vital link between the FEI and Eventing officials for fifteen years”, said Ingmar De Vos, FEI Secretary General.
“During this time, the number of Eventing competitions at all levels has grown rapidly – last year alone, there were over 560 competitions globally, which since 2004 represents a massive 77 per cent growth in this sport.
“As Eventing continues to expand, the role of the International Eventing Officials Club and its members is key to the FEI, the National Federations and Eventing Organisers”.
“The IEOC, which is free for our members, is firmly focussed on developing Eventing at every level internationally”, said IEOC Chairman Andy Griffiths (GBR).
“This Memorandum of Understanding with the FEI is testament to the continued worldwide popularity of Eventing, and the magnitude of the growth of this sport as it continues beyond its traditional heartlands and into new territories.
“These are exciting times for Eventing, and we are all very much looking forward to continuing our work with the FEI, the National Federations and Eventing Organisers this year and beyond to help build a solid future for our sport”.