The award goes to the athlete - equine or human or combination of the two - in any of the seven FEI disciplines that has demonstrated exceptional skills over the past year, and the Lebanese-born American, who is also the title sponsor of the FEI World Cup Dressage series, said there was no question of whether she would support the prize again.

"It was without any hesitation that I agreed to support the FEI's Best Athlete Award again," Acra said.

"My involvement in the FEI World Cup Dressage series has reinforced my belief that it takes a lot more than talent to reach the top.

"Behind every trophy, there are years and years of total commitment to the partnership between humans and horses that makes equestrian sport so special.

"I am very proud that, through the FEI Awards, my name has been associated with those of Edward Gal and Totilas, Adelinde Cornelissen and Michael Jung and I really look forward to seeing who will be the recipient of the Reem Acra Best Athlete Award 2013."


Germany's Jung claimed the Reem Acra Best Athlete Award last year after winning both individual and team eventing golds at the London 2012 Olympics, he also set a new record in equestrian sport - on his 30th birthday - by becoming the first rider to simultaneously hold European, world and Olympic championship titles.

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