U.S. Olympian Courtney King-Dye has changed the centuries old look of dressage traditional dress as well as FEI rules from top hat to helmet. She also was the recipient of the 2012 FEI Against All Odds Award at the 2012 FEI Awards in Istanbul (TUR) last week.
“The whole trip was incredible. I can't say I'm not sad for what I lost but there are definitely some major bonuses I wouldn't have otherwise had!” Courtney told DressageDaily. "Princess Haya presented the awards and when I got to the stage, she gave me a very genuine hug. She's extremely warm and caring and was right there, holding my hand for support whenever I had to move.”
When asked on stage by the announcer what winning the award meant to her, Courtney responded “I normally don't care much about awards or prizes, but this one was very meaningful because it's done through nominations. Anyone can make a nomination and just the fact that people thought of me means my accident affected people, gives it value.” Courtney continued, “The fact that my accident brought such attention to safety, particularly helmet use, gives it a purpose. I wouldn't do it again mind you, but if it saves one life, it makes it seem worthwhile.”
Read the complete story on Dressagedaily.com
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