British Eventing is looking for new venues as an increasing number of events fall by the wayside
British Eventing is appealing for new horse trials venues, as rain continues to disrupt the calendar.
“Yes we need more events – but we’re working on it,” was the message from British Eventing (BE) chief executive Peter Durrant in response to recent complaints that some riders are struggling to get enough runs.
The problem is particularly acute at pre-novice level. More than 2,100 entries at this level have been balloted out of events so far this year, and over 1,000 novice horses.
Bad weather has caused numerous cancellations, even in July – Brightling and Eglinton were victims last week – but there have been a number of other events cancelled for reasons beyond BE’s control.
“Since it typically costs around £14,000 to put on two days of affiliated novice horse trials[paying for insurance, course preparations, PA systems, medical cover and so on], it is a big undertaking,” says Peter.
“A new ‘event support pack’ is being developed to help lead people through it, and we are in advanced negotiations with 14 new venues for next year.
“We are always on the look out for more, especially in the south-east, and I’ll happily reward any fruitful suggestions with a free year’s BE membership and a subscription to Horse & Hound!” he continued.
Demand for places has been compounded by BE gaining 1,000 new members this year, and the success of the day ticket system.
“We are very conscious of the problems people are facing and are considering a range of solutions, including the possibility of special classes for day ticket holders,” said Peter.
If you have any suggestions on how to combate these problems, please send them to Peter Durrant by e-mail: peter@britisheventing.com or (fax: 02476 697235).
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