Simon Kale

Simon

Simon Kale is a former elite three‑day event rider who enjoyed a highly successful international career before retiring from competition. He represented Australia on numerous occasions, highlighted by winning a silver medal at Saumur, France, one of Europe’s most prestigious eventing competitions. Simon also competed extensively throughout Great Britain, Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands, establishing himself as a respected competitor on the international circuit.

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During his career, Simon achieved significant national success, winning the Australian Horse Trials Championship and being named Rider of the Year. He also developed and trained several horses that went on to earn Horse of the Year honours, reflecting his exceptional skill in producing eventing talent.

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Following his retirement from competition, Simon shifted his focus to coaching and coach education. His influence has reached the highest levels of international sport—most notably, one of his students delivered a clear showjumping round in the Modern Pentathlon at the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games.

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Simon continues to contribute to the development of equestrian sport globally and currently represents Australia on the International Group of Equestrian Qualifications (IGEQ), helping shape standards and pathways for coaches worldwide.

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Session Details

Explore the global landscape of equestrian coaching standards in this informative session on the International Group of Equestrian Qualifications (IGEQ). Designed for coaches, centre leaders, and anyone passionate about coaching excellence, this presentation will unpack what the IGEQ is, how it operates, and why its work matters for the future of equestrian education.

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The session will cover the purpose and structure of the IGEQ, how international coach passports are recognised across member countries, and the role the organisation plays in maintaining high‑quality, consistent coaching standards worldwide. You’ll gain insight into how Australia contributes to—and benefits from—this international framework, including what global alignment means for coach mobility, safety, and best practice.

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Whether you’re an accredited coach looking to broaden your professional opportunities or a centre exploring international benchmarking, this session will provide a clear, accessible overview of the IGEQ and its growing influence on equestrian coaching around the world.