The equestrian sports association imposed an age limit of 13 years for participation in national and international competitions – and received criticism.
The proposal was later withdrawn, but the criticism of Sandra Ruuda has not lost its strength. Just last week, more than 160 people, including equestrian star Rolf-Göran Bengtsson, wrote an open letter calling for Ruuda’s resignation.
“I would have liked to stay in office until the next general meeting, but in the interests of Swedish equestrian sport this is the right decision,” says Ruuda, who was elected chairwoman in 2023 and was the first woman to hold this position. Gabriella Bragée, chairwoman of the competition section, is also leaving her position.
Ruuda and Bragée are not the first to leave the union after the criticized proposal. In January, the entire jump committee was dismissed and two days later, general secretary Johan Fyrberg left office early.
Camilla Sjölund Lundevall, former deputy chair, takes over as acting chair.
Read more: Backtrack on 13-year limit after storm of criticism: “Disappointed by the harsh tone”
