Former GB team manager Derek Ricketts has been appointed as co-selector alongside World Class showjumping performance manager Di Lampard for the 2015-16 senior championship teams.
Derek, a former international showjumper, was team manager from 2002-2010. He was sacked following the team’s “disappointing” results in 2009, which he said were due to a lack of horse power.
Important decisions need to be made this year to ensure GB have the best chance of qualifying for the 2016 Olympics at the European Championships this summer.
“This is a crucial year for us and I am really pleased that Derek will be working alongside me in this way,” said Di, who took on the role as performance manager at the start of the year.
“Derek is both knowledgeable and objective and having ridden and worked alongside him for a considerable number of years I have nothing but the utmost respect for his opinions.”
“The European Championships which take place in Aachen, Germany, during August will be the last opportunity for Great Britain to qualify for the 2016 Olympic Games where we hope to defend our team gold title.”
Meanwhile Matthew Lanni has been announced as the pony team chef d’equip, Alan Fazakerley takes charge of the children and junior team, while Tony Newbery is young rider team chef d’equipe.
Alan Fazakerley will be supported by Philippa Curry who will act as deputy chef d’equipe for both the children and junior teams. Tony Newbery will also assist Di Lampard by acting as chef d’equipe at CSIO3/4* Nations Cup team events if required.
Youth team manager Clare Whitaker said: “Across the team appointed we have a nice mix of resource and experience to tap into. On a personal level I am looking forward to working alongside them and am also confident that our youth riders will all feel the same”.
Di added: “I am looking forward to working with the newly appointed team. Their extensive enthusiasm for the task ahead mirrors their commitment and knowledge of the sport and I feel positive that all riders competing within their age groups will not only build a great rapport with their new chef d’equipes but also benefit from them individually.”
Corinne Bracken investigation continues
Corinne voluntarily stepped down from her role as chef d’equipe, trainer and selector for the youth teams following allegations received by British Showjumping (BS) last May. She also stepped down from the international and national sport committee until an investigation has been completed. BS has not released any details about what the allegations relate to.
