Horse and Hound reported that following disappointing results in 2009, British show jumping manager Derek Ricketts has lost his job.
Team manager since 2002, Ricketts’ responsibilities were similar to those of a chef d’equipe. His duties included: planning the season and managing the team, assisting with young and developing riders and managing the performance and evolution of the squad. Ricketts was also the sole selector for the team.
The British show jumping team has struggled the past decade, failing to qualify for the Olympic Games in 2004 and placing a disappointing eighth in 2008. This lies in stark contrast to the British event team, which is consistently at the top of international rankings.
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Ricketts said poor horse quality was the main downfall for the team this past year.
Ricketts’ position went under review in September, and the British Equestrian Federation and the British Show Jumping Association decided to look for a new leader in December. The position may be split into two parts, performance manager and team coach.
Tim Stockdale will serve as chef d’equipe at the upcoming Nations Cup at the CSI***** in Abu Dhabi, UAE, on Feb. 5.
