Debora Pijpers Steps Down as Irish Para Dressage Director

Ireland

Debora Pijpers has announced her decision to step down as Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) High Performance Para Dressage Director at the end of 2024.

Pijpers said “It has been a great pleasure working as Para Dressage High Performance Director for HSI. I am proud of everything the athletes have achieved over the past few years. They worked very hard, showed great determination and talent, and with the help of their personal coaches, their support teams and the High Performance programme they have continued to improve."

Pijpers became the Interim High Performance Director of the Irish Para Dressage team in February 2020. As a rider, she competed four horses up to U25 level and was a member of the Dutch team that won the gold medal at the 2013 European Championships for Young Riders in Compiègne (FRA). She was part of the Dutch YR A-squad for three years.

Pijpers has trained para dressage riders Demi Vermeulen and Glasten Krapels before accepting the job with HSI. She fulfilled the role for four years.

“It is a difficult decision for me to stop because I have truly enjoyed every single moment," said Debora. "The Irish are kind and warm and always made me feel very welcome. I am especially proud of the amazing team atmosphere we created in Paris."

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