Fran Steinwedell, 89, a top show jumping supporter, died April 8
- Details
- April 18, 2024
- By Staff Writers
Frances B. Steinwedell, a beloved figure in the world of show jumping, passed away on April 8, 2024, leaving behind a remarkable legacy.
Born in 1933, Fran dedicated her life to equestrian sport, impacting riders, horses, and the community in profound ways.
Fran was a devoted supporter of show jumping and a trailblazer in the sport.
Fran’s journey began in Chicago, where she schooled, hunted, and showed horses during her junior years.
Her passion for the sport led her to co-produce one of the first all-junior horse shows, earning her a certificate of honor from the Chicago Sun newspaper in 1946.
Throughout her riding career, she consistently won many top, year-end Amateur Owner Hunter awards.
As an owner of several top grand prix horses, Fran played a pivotal role in shaping the careers of talented riders.
U.S. Olympic medalist Anne Kursinski and Fran’s daughter, Francie Steinwedell-Carvin, both benefited from her guidance and support.
Francie, who won both the Medal and the Maclay Finals, went on to represent the U.S. in Europe and establish her own successful business.
Fran’s involvement extended to the West Coast where she and Francie rode at the Flintridge Riding Club.
As both an active board member and President, she helped create one of the first FEI World Cup Qualifiers in the West,The Grand Prix of Flintridge.
Fran was also a founding member of the American Grand Prix Association and served on various boards, including the Pacific Coast Horse Shows Association, The United States Equestrian Team and the USET Foundation.
Her tireless devotion to the sport was well recognized when she was inducted into the Show Jumping Hall of Fame in 2017.