René Pasquier, who served as President of the Organising Committee for the popular CSIO in La Baule (FRA) for the last 25 years, passed away yesterday (16 February).
 
La Baule, which celebrated 50 years of international Jumping in 2010, traditionally hosts the first leg of the FEI Nations Cup™ Top League, one of the FEI’s flagship series. René Pasquier was the driving force behind the show and it was his vision and drive that made La Baule into one of the most popular events on the international calendar.
 
“René Pasquier was a truly wonderful man who dedicated himself tirelessly to making La Baule the iconic event it is today, where the world’s best Jumping riders convene for the first CSIO of the outdoor season,” said FEI President HRH Princess Haya.
 
“He will be sorely missed by FEI staff members who have worked closely with him over the years.
 
"The FEI will also be forever indebted to René, whose passion has showed no bounds for this fabulous world-class setting where the great Jumping champions make their mark."
 
The FEI expresses its sincere condolences to René Pasquier’s wife Catherine and his children, to the La Baule Organising Committee and the French equestrian community.
 
The funeral of René Pasquier will be held at the Église Notre-Dame de La Baule on 22 February at 15.00.