Robert Dover Promoting Change for His Sport and His Country

Focus

Eurodressage F.O.C.U.S.

Having always been a "rather political person," both as a member of the United States Democratic Party and a member of the International Dressage Community, Robert Dover is using his dressage success as a platform to promote positive change in his country and his sport.

"In 1988 I came out publicly in Seoul at the Olympics as an openly gay athlete," the 56-year old Robert told Eurodressage. "I have never looked back from that moment and have since taken part in over 60 different committees within my Federation, the US Olympic Committee, and the FEI."

Starting his riding career at 13, Robert has represented the United States in six consecutive Olympiads, 4 World Championships, and 7 World Cups.

"My political activism has spanned over 30 years and I am now a strong advocate for change within the FEI, hoping the body will become a more democratic, transparent, and fair organization," he said.

Named Male Equestrian of the Year in 1994 by the US Olympic committee, Robert also sat on many USEF committees and was one of the founders of the Equestrian Aid Foundation, which helps people in the horse world suffering from any life threatening illness or injury.

However, outside his work in the equestrian world, Robert also knew that he had to do his part to help his country and he put a great deal of effort into the re-election of President Obama, using his riding achievements to gain support for his chosen president. "I hoped that President Obama could continue on the path he had started 4 years ago toward bringing America out of the absolute mess he inherited," he said.

Robert Dover While he liked the Romneys, who Robert had the pleasure of meeting and speaking to on several occasions, he did not agree with their politics. "I feel the Romneys are great horse owners, but Mitt Romney's philosophies run contrary to my own on too many levels to believe he would have been the right choice to run our country," Dover stated.

Therefore, Robert chose to give both financial, as well as volunteer support, towards the Campaign to re-elect the President. "I am thrilled that he won and now the hard work to reach compromises with the Republicans and to move our nation forwardcan begin," Dover explained. "I have great faith in everyone finally coming together for the best interest of our citizens and the world!"

Equally hopeful that we will soon see positive change in our own FEI industry, Robert believes that change will be the result of unity. "The stakeholders must all get together and speak with ONE very clear voice, as to the way in which we choose to be governed," Dover added. "Until and unless this happens, we will go on being run as a dictatorial aristocracy, discarding the voices of too many, while the ones at the top cling on to their power."

So what is Robert's plan for 2013? "My plan is to simply be happy, healthy, productive , and try to do something good for others every day!"

by Sarah Warne for Eurodressage
Photos © Astrid Appels