Zhang Xiaoning, Chairman of the Chinese Equestrian Association, congratulated Hua in receiving the award. "We are grateful to the FEI for rewarding an equestrian charity project from China," Zhang said.

"We have a rich history of equestrian sportsmanship in China, and it is an integral part of our culture. It is our hope that Alex Hua Tian's 'Horsemanship Movement' will inspire more children to be interested and participate in equestrian athletics," he added.

Known as the "one in 1.3 billion" in the Chinese media in the lead-up the 2008 Olympic Games, 29-year-old Hua is China's first international eventing rider. He represented his country under tremendous press scrutiny and pressure.

"Our hope is that through demonstrating the values of horsemanship, we will change perceptions and help the wider community appreciate what is really at the heart of what we do: the partnership between horse and rider," Hua said.