Hawkesbury local secures the top showjumping job in the world: Todd Hinde makes history

Local Hawkesbury resident, Todd Hinde, has made history by becoming the first Australian to be appointed as the Jumping Director for the International Equestrian Federation (FEI). The 35-year-old, hailing from Richmond, has long been a prominent figure in the Australian equestrian community, particularly in the realm of showjumping. The high-profile appointment not only represents personal success for Hinde but underscores the dedication and talent present within the Australian equestrian scene.

From his younger years, where he spent weeks on end with his grandfather towing horses and a caravan across the vast landscapes of western NSW, Hinde’s journey has been remarkable. Now, he is set to embark on a new chapter in Switzerland. Come September, Hinde will make his way to Lausanne, to FEI Headquarters where he will assume the responsibilities of overseeing all jumping-related activities and initiatives, reporting directly to the Secretary General.

Hinde is a well known figure in Australian showjumping circles having assumed the role of Chef d’Equipe in 2018, which eventually led to his appointment as the full-time High Performance Jumping Manager in 2019. During his tenure, Hinde has successfully led Australian teams at prestigious events such as the World Equestrian Games, the Tokyo Olympics, and Nations Cups Events.

As High Performance Jumping Manager Hinde led Australia to its highest team placing at a world championship – 6th. Australian team – Jamie Kermond, Rowan Willis, Todd Hinde, Billy Raymont (L-R).

Notably, he played a vital role in expanding the sport domestically and internationally, both on an administrative level and through individual rider performances. Hinde has guided young riders in trans-Tasman Young Rider Challenges in New Zealand and has been instrumental in their achievements at the highest echelons of the sport.

Hinde’s connection with horses traces back to his formative years on the NSW south coast at Bega where he honed his riding skills at Bega Pony Club. Guided by his grandfather Richard and along with his sister Jodie, he immersed himself in the world of equestrian competitions. They would embark on long journeys across western NSW, towing their caravan behind their horse truck, participating in show runs in country towns including Wagga, Young, and Griffith.

While Warmblood’s dominate the sport of showjumping today, Hinde – like many of his era and before him – mastered his craft on thoroughbreds and stockhorses, often taking on the challenge of riding the difficult ones. Among these horses, “Plucka” was fondly remembered by Hinde’s friends. A talented but tricky steed he carried Hinde to victory in many Young Rider classes. Later his passion for riding took him to Europe where he successfully competed in showjumping at CSI3* level.

Hinde honed his skills at Bega Pony Club.

“It is with great honour that I take up this position in the sport that I am so passionate about. I look forward to working with the FEI Team and all the sport’s stakeholders to ensure that we continue to develop the discipline of Jumping together with integrity and horsemanship at the core of all endeavours,” Hinde said.

FEI Secretary General, Sabrina Ibáñez, praised Hinde’s broad expertise in horsemanship and administration, which made him the ideal candidate for the role.

“We are delighted to welcome Todd Hinde to the FEI,” “After the sad passing of former Jumping director and friend Marco Fusté earlier this year, we conducted an extensive recruitment process, which was open to candidates worldwide. Todd came on top as the obvious choice given his success as an athlete, chef d’équipe, and administrator,” Ibáñez said.

Hinde’s will assume the role at a crucial time for the sport of jumping, as preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games are in full swing. Additionally, the highly anticipated re-launch of the FEI’s oldest and most prestigious series, the Longines League of Nations, is scheduled for 2024. With the sport experiencing growth in new nations and regions at the top level, Hinde’s Australian roots, international experience, and dynamic outlook are expected to have a significant impact on shaping the future of FEI Jumping.

The appointment comes as, the newly announced Australian Jumping Team gears up for the Olympic Qualifier, set to take place in Valkenswaard, Netherlands on July 17th and 18th, 2023.

Australia needs to secure one of the top two spots, guaranteeing their participation in the Paris 2024 Olympics. The riders competing for Australia’s spot include Lauren Balcomb with ‘Verdini D’Houtveld Z’, Chris Burton with ‘Chedington Hazy Toulana’, Hilary Scott with ‘Oaks Milky Way’, Edwina Tops-Alexander with either ‘Fellow Castlefield’ or ‘Corelli de Mies’, and Thaisa Erwin with either ‘High Star Hero’ or ‘Vanturo’ (reserve).

The team will be aiming to build upon the Australian eventing team’s recent triumph in Ireland, where they secured their ticket to Paris with a stunning victory.