By Tom Degun

Jane Goldsmith_equestrian_1_11_JuneJune 12 - Jane Goldsmith, one of the pioneers of Para-dressage in Britain and a hugely respected trainer in all equestrian disciplines, has passed away aged 71 following a long battle with illness.

Goldsmith (pictured above) had great success in her competitive and training areas of dressage, jumping, eventing and racing, and won the All-England Championships during her jumping career.

But she really made her name in training, coaching some of the world's best riders including nine-times Paralympic champion Lee Pearson.

Goldsmith was also a member of the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) Para-Equestrian Committee, a five-star Para-dressage judge and taught all over the world in training schemes for FEI Development, the International Paralympic Equestrian Committee and the Christopher Reeve Spinal Cord and Paralysis Foundation.

Last year, she was presented with the Queen's Award for Equestrianism for her outstanding service to the sport and was due to be a member of the Appeal Committee at the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

"Jane's contribution to our sport, both in Great Britain and throughout the world, has been phenomenal," said British Dressage chief executive Amanda Bond.

"As one of the pioneers of Para-dressage sport, we owe her a huge debt of gratitude for her dedication.

"She will be fondly remembered by so many for her wisdom, her generosity and her strength of character.

"We have lost a great coach and a dear friend."

Ulf Wilken, chair of the FEI Para-Equestrian Committee, also paid tribute.

"Jane was so well loved by so many and her passing will leave a huge hole in the Para-dressage world," Wilken said.

"She has worked tirelessly for Para-dressage over the years, and her huge support, drive and initiative have helped to take the discipline to where it is today.

"This is a tremendous loss to the horse world, and to her family and many friends."

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