Eric Straus’ equestrian sport experience is multi-dimensional and international, which will serve him well in his role of helping the Chinese Equestrian Association ramp up its efforts to become part of the equestrian mainstream. The businessman has done everything from serving as executive director of the old American Horse Shows Association and the Washington International Horse Show, to working as the FEI’s honorary reining steward general and heading the search committees for the U.S. show jumping, eventing and dressage chefs d’equipe. Eric also is a trustee of the American Horse council and serves as secretary to the U.S. Equestrian Team Foundation.
Eric, president of the consulting firm, the Equine Sport Group, was recently appointed as managing director of Sai Ma Sports LLC, a company focused on linking Western equine expertise with leaders in China who are intent on revitalizing the national equine industry.
What is China’s interest in equestrian sport?
ES: The origins of polo come back to China, so there is a tradition of sport and horses. The Chinese are very committed to the Olympic ideals and international sport, so in terms of equestrian, they are looking at what appeals in the Games. They want to participate internationally and they want to be competitive.