The Danish equestrian federation (DRF) has announced that no less than 12 people have declared their intention to run for a position on the board of directors.
Tumultuous Year in Denmark in 2023
The board of the Danish equestrian federation came in difficult waters in 2023, when it face massive amounts of criticism following alleged animal abuse at Helgstrand Dressage and Helgstrand medication issue at the National Championships. In the background of all tht the huge animal neglect case at John Byrialsen's Viegaard Stutteri further fuelled the negative climate around horse management and sport in Denmark.
In September 2023 chair Ulf Helgstrand took leave after the federation's ethics were questioned over the alleged protected status of Andreas Helgstrand within the federation despite the doping scandal and Operation X. Vice chair Jakob Blicher Ravnsbo stepped up and acted as interim chairman of the federation since then.
Four Seats Up For Election
Four seats, including the position of chair, are up for election at the representatives meeting on 13 April 2024. The nomination deadline was on 1 February 2024.
DRF has announced that "this year there are as many as 12 candidates running for the vacant board positions, while 10 of these are running for the vacant deputy position."
This year's candidates for DRF's vacant board and deputy positions are:
- Helle Juul
- Tina Callesen – does not run for the vacant deputy position
- Jørgen Mertz – does not run for the vacant deputy post
- Bo Gejl
- Helle Kristensen
- Linnea Ericsson-Carey
- Nathalie zu Sayn-Wittgenstein
- Jakob Leth
- Charlotte Kjærgaard
- Bent Askham Jensen
- Sally Schlicking
- Caroline Tvedebrink Elsner
There is one candidate to run for chair of the Board of Directors: Dan Boyter.
Their resumes and motivation can be read here (in Danish).
Photo © Astrid Appels
Related Links
Nathalie zu Sayn-Wittgenstein to Run for Board Danish Equestrian Federation
Helgstrand and Ravnsbo Step Down from Danish Equestrian Federation's Board of Directors
Danish Equestrian World in Turmoil as Ethics of National Federation Are Questioned
Operation X Documentary Causes Cascade of Anger, Indignation, Disapproval