Former Canadian eventer Graeme Thom has been named the Equestrian Sport New Zealand high performance eventing manager.

Thom rode to the CCI*** level and was shortlisted for the Canadian eventing team. He’s also worked in the financial industry.

Most recently, Thom, 55, served as chair of the Canadian High Performance Committee, and as chef d’equipe at the 2007 Pan American Games (Brazil), the 2008 Olympic Games (Hong Kong), the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games (Ky.), the 2011 Pan American Games (Mexico) and the 2012 Olympic Games (England). Both positions were on a volunteer basis.

Under his leadership, the Canadian team won team silver at the 2010 World Games and Jessica Phoenix won individual gold at the Pan Ams in 2011 on Pavarotti.

Thom resigned from his position with Equine Canada in July 2014, less than two months before the WEG in France, citing a difference of opinion with the organization. 

“I am extremely excited to be joining Eventing Team New Zealand,” said Thom. “I have always admired the New Zealand teams that have done so well in the sport of eventing. What is particularly impressive is the high respect afforded the athletes both on and off the field of play. They certainly represent their nation well at every turn.”

He and former ESNZ high performance coach Erik Duvander, who stepped down from his position in October after 10 years on the job, were both chefs d’equipe at the same time.

“While my role differs from his, I hope to be able to bring the same level of respect to the position,” said Thom.

Top four-star rider Jonathan “Jock” Paget recently relocated from England back to his home country, and he’ll serve as the high performance development coach.

Thom will make his first trip to New Zealand in a few weeks. “It is something I am really looking forward to,” he said. “The country is rich in history and looks like it must surely be one of the most beautiful places on earth.”

“It is great to have someone of Graeme’s caliber and experience joining our eventing high performance team,” said ESNZ high performance director Sarah Dalziell-Clout. “His leadership and management skills combined with his understanding of the international eventing environment, particularly in North America, will be invaluable as we head into the all-important World Equestrian Games in Tryon [N.C.] next year.”