Showjumping fans are campaigning for Scott Brash to be named the BBC Sports Personality of the Year (SPOTY) following his historic win in the Rolex Grand Slam this year.
Scott picked up a €1m (£730,000) bonus earlier this month when he completed the hat-trick of grands prix — Geneva, Aachen and Spruce Meadows (news, 17 September).
And now the equestrian world wants to see him recognised for his endeavours.
A page has been set up by Amy Dennison from Stafford Barton Stud on Facebook, and within a week more than 15,000 people had liked the page.
“I was so sick and tired of other sports receiving all the recognition, and equestrianism isn’t getting what it deserves,” she told H&H.
“Once we have enough support I will send evidence to the BBC to show how strong the industry is.
“I’m very passionate about the athletes getting the respect they deserve. If it was golf or football they would definitely be on the list.”
The last equestrian to be crowned SPOTY was AP McCoy in 2010. The only showjumper on the rostrum was David Broome in 1960.
Last year the equestrian world was disappointed when Charlotte Dujardin narrowly missed out on being voted into the top three — despite a full campaign launched by the British Equestrian Federation.
“The more support we get the better for the industry to attract sponsors and owners,” added Ms Dennison.
The nominations are compiled by sports editors of national publications, with the final 10 open to a public vote in December.
Previous equestrian winners in the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards:
- 1960 David Broome
- 1971 Princess Anne
- 2006 Zara Phillips
- 2010 AP McCoy
