Source:  Team GBR

Leading British dressage rider, Laura Bechtolsheimer has been awarded the British Olympic Association’s (BOA) Olympic Athlete of the Year trophy for equestrian sports, in recognition of her outstanding performances this year.

The 25 year old from Gloucestershire commented; “I feel immensely honoured to be recognised in this way. It’s not only a major achievement for me but also for my sport, Dressage - as it has not always been the nation’s strongest performing equestrian discipline.”

“2010 was an amazing year, topped off perfectly with me bringing home three silver medals (one team and two individual) from the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky. I’m now more excited than ever about London 2012 and the potential opportunity of competing on home soil.”

Laura’s award comes after a fantastic season, culminating in team and individual silver medals in the Grand Prix Freestyle and the Grand Prix Special at the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky.

World Class Performance Director, Will Connell commented; “This year was a great year for the Lottery funded British Equestrian teams with both William (Fox-Pitt, Eventing) and Laura winning Individual Silvers, helping their respective teams towards team success”.

The award was introduced in 2005 to mark the BOA’s Centenary Year and London being awarded the 2012 Olympic Games. The BOA presented a trophy to each of the 33 summer and winter Olympic sports for them to award on an annual basis to their top performing athlete of the year.

Andy Hunt, BOA Chief Executive commented; “The award of the Olympic Athlete of the Year trophy recognises the dedication, commitment and excellence of athletes who represent the very best of British talent in their respective Olympic sports.”

For a full list of all the athletes awarded the BOA Olympic Athlete of the Year trophy please visit the BOA website.