The British Equestrian Federation named BBC tv-host and sport journalist Clare Balding "Outstanding Journalist of the Year 2014." The runner-up for the award was equestrian photographer Jon Stroud, who occasionally contributes to Eurodressage.
The award, presented at the British Equestrian Writers Association Lunch (BEWA) on the 18 December, is given annually to recognise the journalist who has made the biggest positive contribution to equestrian sport coverage over the year.
Clare’s talents as a radio and television sports presenter have made her a household name across the BBC, Channel 4 and BT Sport Channels. Her passion for horses is well documented and Clare has brought this knowledge and enthusiasm to her viewers, offering captivating and insightful coverage of equestrian sport from an extensive list of events in 2014.
BEF Director of Marketing and Communications, Nicki Kavanagh, said: “It gives me great pleasure to present this award to one of our highest-profile personalities. Clare has proven herself time and time again as an exceptional broadcaster. She has a knack for bringing out the best in our athletes during interview through her creative and well-constructed questioning which makes for great TV viewing.
“Not only does she bring equestrian sport to new audiences but she is always willing to help with any project that resonates, no matter how big or small and we have been enormously grateful for her support of our Hoof programme to get more people riding. Over the past year, Clare has gone over and above the call of duty on numerous occasions and this is our way of recognising her commitment and dedication to the sport.”
Upon receiving the award Clare said: “It is a huge honour to receive this award. Not many people know that is was in eventing, not racing that I started my career – at Badminton Horse Trials in 1995. The stories, the people and the way the Riders are so willing to share what they do with the press is what makes it special. I thought the moment Harry Meade addressed the media at WEG this year after the terrible loss of [his horse] Wild Lone was an extraordinary thing; that generosity and willingness to share would only happen in this sport.
“Equestrian was the reason I went to my first Olympic Games in Atlanta and I've been lucky enough to report on so many memorable moments in eventing, showjumping and dressage since. I hope I'll be able to continue to work on many more.”
Representatives from the BEF’s nineteen Member Bodies deliberated to decide the winner of the 2014 award from a shortlist of 11 nominees put forward by the organisation’s communication teams. Equestrian photographer Jon Stroud and BBC colleague Ollie Williams were announced as 2014 runners up.
Photo © Jon Stroud
Related Link
Eurodressage Photo Database: Jon Stroud Images