Thank you Geoff Sinclair

Geoff Sinclair has recently stepped down after seven years representing Australia as Chair of the FEI Risk Management Steering Group. As a former Chairman of Equestrian Australia (EA) and an experienced FEI Eventing Technical Delegate, Geoff was appointed at the FEI General Assembly in 2018 due to his extensive experience in integrating less experienced countries into the Eventing international competition framework.

Under his leadership, the group made significant progress in enhancing rider safety and reducing horse falls, particularly serious and rotational falls, during cross country events. One notable achievement is the introduction of the frangible pin 'MIM' standard. Essentially, this technology involves a cross country jump supported by a ‘pin’ that allows the top rail or table to collapse under a specific amount of force from a horse, thereby reducing the risk of a fall. If a frangible pin is activated, the combination incurs penalty points but can continue safely if they avoid a fall.

Geoff collaborated with a distinguished team that included course designers, engineers, statisticians, coaches, technical delegates, medical professionals, and top-level riders. “I had the honour to work with some of the most passionate and smart eventing people in the world, including Mark Phillips (GBR Course Designer), Mats Björnetun (SWE inventor from MIM Construction AB), Jonathan Clissold (GBR), and engineer Dave Voss (USA),” he said. Others, like Sam Watson (IRL) at Equiratings, analysed data to make recommendations for rule changes.

Geoff acknowledged that there were many ‘hard debates’ to discuss and implement major changes in the sport.

We thank Geoff got the major improvements he has facilitated during his time leading the FEI Risk Management Steering Group.