Equestrian Canada (EC) is pleased to announce that Jon Garner of Calgary, AB is joining the National Federation as the Director of Sport.
Garner has a long history and proven track record in equestrian sport as an athlete, coach, and administrator. Originally from Great Britain, he started riding at the young age of seven, and later served as a member of the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery in the British Army. Garner attained both Military and Civilian Equestrian Instructor certificates before moving to Canada in 1991.
In 1998, Garner joined internationally acclaimed Spruce Meadows first as a professional rider and then as the Manager, Competitions in 2004. During his tenure, Garner oversaw the delivery of numerous world-class equestrian competitions.
In addition to his management responsibilities, Garner provided colour commentary at Spruce Meadows for global broadcast corporations such as FOX Sports and SKY Sports in the UK.
“Recruiting an individual of Jon’s caliber to this vital role is an important step for EC and I am thrilled to have him as a member of the senior leadership team,” said EC Chief Executive Officer, Eva Havaris. “Jon is a well-respected leader and manager in the equestrian community in Canada and abroad and brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to this role. Additionally, his enthusiasm and passion for equestrian sports is infectious and will prove to be invaluable as we continue to redefine EC’s role and reshape the delivery of equestrian sports in Canada in partnership with key stakeholders.”
“I am thrilled to be joining the team at Equestrian Canada and I am excited about the opportunities that lay ahead for the organization,” said Garner. “There is nothing quite like equestrian sport and it has given me so much enjoyment over the years. Watching riders and horses grow and develop is a real passion of mine and now I get to be able to aid in the future development of equestrian sport in Canada.”
Garner commences his role effective immediately and will be responsible for:
• Working with key stakeholders (athletes, officials, owners, technical leads, OTP/Sport Canada/COC) to further develop and refine Canada’s High Performance equestrian sport system
• Developing a HP Major Games strategy towards 2020/2024
• Developing talent ID/development strategies with the technical discipline committees
• Overseeing preparation and logistics for the Canadian Equestrian Team at all major games
• Leading EC’s HP department
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