“I’ve enjoyed every single moment” – Pijpers steps down as High Performance Para Dressage Director

Debora Pijpers, Para Equestrian High Performance Director, second from right, with from left, Jessica McKenna, Sarah Slattery and Kate Kerr-Horan.

Debora Pijpers has announced her decision to step down as Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) High Performance Para Dressage Director at the end of 2024, after a transformative five-year tenure. Since taking on the role in 2019, Pijpers has developed a structured and successful programme that has delivered exceptional results on the global stage.

Under her leadership, the Irish Para Dressage team consistently achieved top-10 finishes at major international championships, including the World Championships in Herning (2022), the European Championships in Riesenbeck (2023), and the Paralympic Games in Paris (2024). These achievements reflect the strength of the programme and the dedication of all involved.

Despite challenges such as navigating the pandemic and enhancing programme structures, Pijpers’ demonstrated commitment has ensured a lasting legacy for Irish Para Dressage. To ensure continuity, she will remain involved as an advisor during the transition period, while Horse Sport Ireland looks to build on the strong foundation she has established and continue driving success in this vital discipline.

She said: “It has been a great pleasure working as Para Dressage High Performance Director for HSI.

“I did my best to develop a structured High Performance programme, to listen to the athletes’ voices and to keep improving the programme, while I have learned so much along the way.

“I am proud of everything the athletes have achieved over the past few years. They worked very hard, showed great determination and talent, and with the help of their personal coaches, their support teams and the High Performance programme they have continued to improve.

“It is a difficult decision for me to stop because I have truly enjoyed every single moment. The Irish are kind and warm and always made me feel very welcome. I am especially proud of the amazing team atmosphere we created in Paris.

“However, I feel deep down that it is time for a new challenge for me. I would love a strategic role at an (inter)national sports organisation, but I have nothing specific in mind yet. For now, I will put effort in ensuring a smooth transition of the programme and of course I wish all the Irish Para Dressage riders a lot of success.”

Chief Executive of Horse Sport Ireland, Denis Duggan, paid tribute to Pijpers and the work she has done with the programme, saying: “Debora has been a fantastic High Performance Director and she leaves the programme in a stronger position.

“She has overseen some remarkable results, with consistent top 10 team finishes at major championships and, particularly, Michael Murphy’s medals at the World Championships and the European Championships. We are grateful to her for the work she has done with the programme and thank her for all her hard work.

“We wish her every success in her career and look forward to seeing her again soon.”