Talent spotting for future eventing stars
Event riders who believe they have what it takes to win medals at future Olympic Games, but are not currently members of the World Class squads, can take part in a new talent spotting system, organised by the British Equestrian Federation.
The system will assess riders aged 14-30 for their suitability as possible members of the World Class Start and Potential eventing squads, which have been designed to help riders develop into Olympic riders over time.
Assessors will observe riders competing at affiliated events, paying particular attention to their performance on the cross-country phase. Riders will not be told at which events they are going to be assessed.
The assessments will be undertaken by selectors, team chef d’equipes and regional JRN co-ordinators, with support from Yogi Breisner, Gill Watson, Kenneth Clawson and Sarah Verney.
Vicky Kind, World Class Start and Potential Manager, explains: “To ensure the talent spotting system is open and fair, all riders will be considered, regardless of whether they are riding at pre-novice or advanced level.”
In particular riders who are planning to apply for selection to the World Class programmes later this year are being encouraged to take part in the talent spotting system, which will help to support their first round application.
Individuals who would like to take part in the scheme should send an up to date CV plus a list of the events they plan to compete at for the rest of the season to: Nikki Franck_Steier, World Class Start and Potential Assistant, The British Equestrian Federation, Stoneleigh, Kenilworth, Warks CV8 2RH or email: nicola.franck-steier@bef.co.uk
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There are plans for the talent spotting system to be rolled out to include dressage and show jumping riders in the future.
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Carol is an experienced journalist and editor, who is also a passionate amateur rider and dedicated horse owner, having ridden since childhood. She has a particular interest in the emotional well-being and ethical training of horses, alongside veterinary matters, having garnered extensive first-hand experience of numerous equine health conditions through more than 30 years of horse ownership.