Dressage judge Stephen Clarke has died
Farewell to former Olympic referee and Judge General Stephen Clarke
from Dominique Wehrmann 
Stephen Clarke (1955–2026).
Photo: Archive Sportfotos-lafrentz.de Stephen Clarke was one of the most prominent figures in the international dressage scene. As a judge, he officiated at three Olympic Games: in Athens in 2004, in London in 2012, and in Rio de Janeiro in 2016. In 2012, he served as Chief Judge. In 2013, he was also appointed “FEI Judge General,” succeeding Ghislain Fouarge as the “spokesperson” for the judging corps. Furthermore, he served on the FEI Dressage Committee for several years and played a major role in shaping the content of the judges’ handbook, which is still in use today. He later became president of the International Dressage Officials Club (IDOC).
A Career in the Saddle
Stephen Clarke was from Wales. A neighbor’s ponies were his first introduction to horses—a connection that never faded. He began judging while still in his twenties. As Eurodressage quoted in the IDOC obituary, the reason for his decision to try his hand at judging was this: He was “fed up with everyone complaining about the judging.” That was typical of his approach to problem-solving: instead of complaining, he took action himself and became part of the solution.
But he also competed as a rider, and with great success. In 1980, he competed at the Olympic Trials in Goodwood with his horse Ulysses. In 1988, he was a reserve for the British team at the Olympic Games in Seoul with Becket. He was British champion five times. As a rider, he was trained by, among others, Ernst Bachinger of the Spanish Riding School, Jennie Loriston-Clarke, and Ferdi Eilberg.
Tireless dedication
Stephen Clarke was not only a man of theory but also of practice. For example, he ran his own stable in Cheshire, where, among other things, he trained up-and-coming trainers.
His colleagues at IDOC hold him in the highest regard. They say that, thanks to his leadership, the Judges’ Association has become a “better, stronger, and more effective organization.”
He stayed in touch with his former colleagues right up until the end and was always there to listen to them. Now he has lost his battle with cancer. At just 71 years old. Far too soon.
“It was a privilege and an honor”—these are the words with which Marietta Withages, former president of IDOC, and Hans-Christian Matthiesen, current president of the Judges’ Association, conclude their obituary.
Our deepest sympathies go out to all those who were close to Stephen Clarke!
