Lexington, KY – A mutual decision has been made not to renew the contract of USEF National Dressage Coach Klaus Balkenhol which expires at the end of 2008. The decision between Balkenhol and the USEF’s High Performance Dressage Committee means that his role as Chef d’Equipe, National Dressage Coach and Technical Advisor to the Committee shall be concluded according to the terms of the existing contract on December 31, 2008.

In recognition of Balkenhol’s excellent service to the USEF over the past eight years the High Performance Dressage Committee looks forward to further discussions about his future role with the USEF and the support he can lend to our international riders both in the US and in Europe. Balkenhol has guided the US Team to a number of Team medals during his tenure, including Gold at both the 2003 and 2007 Pan American Games, Silver at the 2002 World Equestrian Games and Bronze at the 2004 Olympic Games and 2006 World Equestrian Games.

Details about the appointment of a new coach for the period leading up to the 2012 Olympic Games will be discussed at a Dressage Athletes' Forum in November 2008. Riders who are on the 2008 USEF Long List for Training will be invited to meet with members of the USEF Dressage Active Athletes Committee to discuss a wide range of topics relating to the Dressage High Performance Strategic Plan for the next quadrenium, including the coaching requirements for Young Riders, Developing Riders, and Elite Riders.

For more information, please contact Managing Director of Dressage, Gil Merrick, at [email protected].