The FEI is to freeze the Rolex Rankings points for Jumping riders on maternity leave, starting with the April Rankings issued today. Under the new system, female riders will now lose only 50% of their Rolex Rankings points during their absence from competition while on maternity leave.
The new ruling means that former world number one Meredith Michaels-Beerbaum moves up from 31st on the March Rolex Rankings to 20th following the reinstatement of 50% of her points. The German rider, who gave birth to her first child Brianne Victoria Beerbaum on 27 February, has announced that she will not be defending her Rolex FEI World Cup™ title in Geneva next week.
“This is great news for all female Jumping riders”, Meredith said today. “It means that we can take time out from competition to have a baby and not lose all our Rolex Rankings points while we’re off the circuit. It’s a really proactive move by the FEI and as far as I know they are the first international governing body to do something like this.”
Meredith, who is a Rolex Testimonee, had her last international outing at the CSIO Spruce Meadows Masters in September 2009. She is planning a return to international competition at Hagen in Germany at the end of this month.
The Rolex green and gold armband, which is worn by the leading rider in the Rolex Rankings, remains with Switzerland’s Pius Schwizer, who retains his world number one spot for the third consecutive month.
FEI to Freeze Rolex Rankings Points for Riders on Maternity Leave
The FEI is to freeze the Rolex Rankings points for Jumping riders on maternity leave, starting with the April Rankings issued today. Under t....
After an exemplary career as one of Canada’s top Dressage riders, seven-time Olympian Christilot Boylen has announced her retirement from team competition.
For only the second time in its history, The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair has been cancelled but plans are being made for some virtual competitions.
As the Province of Ontario starts to reopen, The Royal’s Board and staff will adhere to all recommendations put forward by government and health officials.
Ontario Equestrian has recently released this update of several financial assistance packages available, including those for farm business.