The event, which was attended by over 200 of the country’s most influential members of the equestrian industry and included a number of representatives from the equestrian trade, also received a letter of support from Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, president of the world governing  body FEI

 

 

Professor Sir Colin Spedding, chairman of the NEF said: “We are both honoured and delighted that Her Royal Highness

 

"The Princess Royal has graciously consented to become our president.

 

"She has been a respected participant for a number of years and her input and association with the Forum are highly valued.”

 

Also at the meeting, Will Connell, the world class performance director of the British Equestrian Federation (BEF), reported on the challenges and achievements of the 2008 Olympic Games.

 

He set the scene for a presentation from Tim Hadaway, the equestrian competition manager for the London 2012.

 

A balanced debate was held on the pros and cons of using Greenwich Park as a venue for the equestrian element of the Games, which included a statement from the local pressure group No to Greenwich Park Equestrian Events (NOGOE).

 

The issues of course size, spectator capacity, legacy and park heritage were discussed, with Hadaway concluding that Greenwich presents a highly suitable site in the heart of London, for the delivery of a compact and ‘green’ Games.