February 10, 2012 — We mourn the loss of a great leader in equestrian sport in the United States. John “Jack” Fritz passed away the morning of February 9, 2012.
Fritz was on the forefront of developing the disciplines of dressage and eventing in the US. He served as the Chairman of the American Horse Show Association (present day USEF) Combined Events and Dressage Committee. Additionally, Fritz filled the roles of Secretary Treasurer and Director of the United States Equestrian Team and served as the Vice President of the United States Combined Training Association (present day USEA). Fritz was also instrumental in the founding of the United States Dressage Federation.
With great faith in the future of the sport Fritz was a proponent of expanding the North American Young Rider Championships in to a multiple discipline competition. He also played a large role in the development of the United States Pony Club and its programs.
In addition to being a leader in all aspects of the sport, Fritz was a respected official, serving as a USEF Dressage and Eventing Technical Delegate and an FEI judge.
“Jack has been an icon for generations of equestrians. A true inspiration in the sport, he will be missed.” said John Long, USEF CEO.