Latest from Horse & Hound in British-equestrian-federation

Calls for a ‘clear definition of harmony’ as dressage undergoes full rules revision

Becky Murray — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 12:03:00 +0000

Judges’ positions and scoring, the definition of harmony and compulsory video monitoring of warm-ups are under discussion in dressage.

The first draft of the 2027 FEI rule change proposals have been published, as dressage undergoes its first full revision since 2022. National federations, the International Dressage Riders Club (IDRC), International Dressage Officials Club (IDOC), the European Equestrian Federation (EEF) and the FEI have submitted suggestions covering a broad range of topics.

The IDOC and EEF proposed that at championships, of the seven judges, four are placed on the long side, at V, P R and S – instead of the current two. The organisations said this would give judges “a much clearer picture” of particular movements, and an EEF spokesperson added that this is important owing to “the recent focus on harmony”.

“Most importantly, judges would have a much clearer indication of any contact issues, which are now very much under public focus and discussion,” said the EEF and IDOC.

“This would show that dressage is prepared to take a positive action in seriously addressing this issue. It would be a positive move for the sport.”

The FEI dressage technical committee (DTC) “agreed in principle” and said a test event will take place this year. The committee highlighted that having four judges on the long side would "significantly impact” spectators’ view, but could “assist spectators to better understand the sport as the four judges will have a similar viewpoint”.

British Equestrian (BEF) called for “a clear definition of harmony” to show how this applies to the general impression mark.

“We need to be able to articulate exactly what judges are looking for, in order to encourage riders to ride accordingly,” said a BEF spokesperson. “We should also be considering how to embed harmony within the score for each individual movement, rather than relying on a single collective mark.”

There could be a shake-up around collective marks; seven organisations put forward submissions – most favouring the introduction of a second mark.

The IDRC and German federation suggested having one collective mark to evaluate the horse’s “quality and demonstration of the level of training”, including rhythm, relaxation, mouth activity and head-neck position. The other would evaluate the rider’s performance, including seat and influence, aids and accuracy.

The EEF and Swiss federation suggested having one collective mark for scale of training and another for harmony of horse and rider.

But the DTC has proposed to remove collective marks entirely. A committee spokesperson said adding a second mark was considered in 2018, but research from Nottingham Trent University provided evidence that this was not favourable.

“The DTC is particularly sensitive to the issue of evaluating harmony and the scale of training as the core objectives,” said a DTC spokesperson.

“It is therefore recommended to remove all collective marks and instead focus on evaluating harmony and the demonstration of the training scale when evaluating each technical movement in the test, thus aligning with the object of dressage and further reducing subjectivity.”

The spokesperson added that the dressage judging guidelines and handbook are being reviewed and a definition of harmony and how this applies to scoring will be considered as part of this.

The EEF suggested the appointment of “welfare supervisors” at championships and major events to supervise the warm-up, including monitoring excessive work, the riders' hands, and use of spurs and whips.

The DTC rejected this, stating that stewards and veterinary delegates work together to oversee horse welfare and wellbeing in warm-ups. The spokesperson said a new “observation protocol” is being developed to assist officials on warm-up procedures.

“The possibility of introducing compulsory video monitoring/recording of the warm-up is also being explored,” he said.

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‘Exciting things are to come’: equestrianism at pivotal moment as work continues on its future

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 15:57:45 +0000

Equestrianism in the UK has reached a “pivotal moment”, research has found, as work is ongoing to support its “sustainable, inclusive and socially valuable future”.

British Equestrian (BEF) has published its 2025 “state of the nation” report, the third annual overview of the sector. The report takes in research and information from the BEF, its member bodies, partners and other organisations in sport, health and education.

“This year’s report is evidence that equestrianism has reached a pivotal moment, with participation and social impact evidence on the rise,” the report states. “Equestrian activities deliver significant health, wellbeing and inclusion benefits, while reaching groups often underrepresented in other sports.

“But it also highlights real pressures, with rising costs and fewer local facilities restricting growth and accessibility, as well as increasing welfare and social licence scrutiny.

“The message is clear – equestrianism matters more than ever, but protecting its future will require care, investment and clear evidence of the positive impact horses have on people’s lives.”

The report found that equestrian participation and engagement continue to grow. There has been a 16% increase in BEF member body members, for example, to 295,965 in total, and a 21% increase in social media followers, to more than 2.3m people. But equestrian businesses, charities and the workforce are under pressure.

“Rising operating costs and workforce challenges continue to impact riding establishments and community facilities, threatening local access if not addressed,” the report states.

A big focus in the BEF state of the nation report 2025 is on social value; H&H reported that major BEF “power of horses” research had found that equestrianism generates £1.2bn in social value every year.

BEF insight and research manager Abbie Bevan, who spoke about the social value research at the launch event last year and highlighted the need to communicate this value to Government, told H&H the picture is overall a positive one.

“This is a retrospective of last year and we can only take it year by year, but at the moment it’s showing there’s a lot of opportunity across the federation with our member bodies,” she said. “That’s what the power of horses research showed us. When we align a lot of the findings of that and the work that’s done in riding schools, there’s a huge amount of opportunity for us to align with Government agendas, on health, wellbeing and social connection.

“This is a reflection on what has been but with the idea of helping us navigate forward as well.”

Ms Bevan explained that it can be difficult to keep up with all the different research and work being carried out; pulling it together helps keep the sector on track and relevant, and to compare equestrianism to other sports and wider trends.

“There are elements of keeping us accountable, but also giving us a bit of a direction; what areas could we focus on next and are there opportunities for us to learn from other sports?” she said.

The BEF state of the nation report sets out the evidence of equestrianism’s relevance to society and the need to protect the sector through “collaboration, investment and improved insight”.

Ms Bevan said that as well as ongoing work with its funders and investors, the BEF is working internally and with specialists to put together its requests to the Government.

BEF state of the nation: work goes on

“There’s a lot of work going on behind closed doors at the moment, but exciting things are to come; that’s essentially the summary,” she said.

The BEF is also working towards its next Sport England funding cycle and “constantly improving” data collection, including research on the workforce.

“Looking ahead, British Equestrian will continue to harness the power of evidence, by developing research and data to better understand the sector and support year-on-year tracking of participation, workforce sustainability, welfare and social impact,” a BEF spokesperson said.

“Set against national evidence of declining physical activity, widening inequalities and growing pressures on health and education systems, the report demonstrates how equestrian activity can contribute to preventative healthcare, social connection and positive life outcomes across all ages.”

BEF head of development and inclusion Rebecca Gibson added that the report shows equestrianism’s status as “far more than a sport”.

“The evidence demonstrates its ability to deliver meaningful social value, improve wellbeing and reach people who are often missed by other forms of physical activity,” she said. “By placing data and insight at the heart of our work, we can better protect the future of the sector, support our communities and ensure horses continue to enrich lives across the UK.”

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New study identifies the challenges and support for returning to riding after childbirth

Becky Murray — Sun, 24 May 2026 11:53:45 +0000

Ros Canter’s epic Badminton win four months after giving birth has shone the spotlight on rider pregnancy and returning to sport, as a new study continues the “important conversation”.

Researchers from Hartpury University surveyed 727 riders to understand equestrians’ experiences during pregnancy, return to sport after childbirth, and the “physical, emotional and practical challenges many women face”.

Findings included the fact many women continue riding throughout pregnancy, although decisions on this vary depending on experience, confidence and health. Those competing at higher levels were more likely to continue riding later into pregnancy, return sooner and regain their previous level of competition postpartum.

The most commonly reported barriers affecting riders’ return to the saddle were lack of time, reduced confidence, balance issues, incontinence, fatigue and pain or discomfort. Although most riders restart within a year of giving birth, more than a quarter said they did not return to their pre-pregnancy competition level.

The study found external pressure to stop riding during pregnancy or return quickly after childbirth was “generally low” – but some participants reported pressure from social media, family members, and public perception.

Major challenges

Hartpury senior lecturer in equine performance and researcher Victoria Lewis said the study highlights “just how individual women’s experiences are”.

“Many riders continue successfully, but there are significant physical and practical challenges that can affect confidence, performance and return to competition,” said Dr Lewis.

“There is currently very limited evidence-based guidance for riders during pregnancy or after childbirth. We hope this work helps open important conversations around female rider support, health, and welfare within the equestrian industry.”

The study has been submitted for publication and it is hoped the findings will also contribute to “evidence-based guidance in equestrian sport”.

British Equestrian CEO Jim Eyre thanked the authors for their research in “such a key but unexplored area”.

“We look forward to reviewing the full research, but the headlines make interesting reading. With such strong female participation in our sports, any information and guidance to help navigate major life events such as pregnancy can only help build a truly inclusive community,” he told H&H.

“Getting conversations started is important and we’ll work to see what we can action from the research to support the entire industry. It’s important to recognise that every equestrian will have individual needs and experiences around pregnancy, birth and getting back to sport, so protocols or rules for returning must consider that carefully.”

Working together

Mr Eyre added that riders on the World Class Programme have access to specialist support in this area from UK Sport.

“Using the research findings, we’ll work collectively with the expertise available via performance director Helen Nicholls and our chief medical officer Anna-Louise Mackinnon to scope resources and guidance that cover all levels of athletes for further development,” he said.

Rider pregnancy has been back in the spotlight thanks to Ros Canter; she and Lordships Graffalo won Defender Burghley in September while Ros was pregnant with her second child, and this month they won Mars Badminton, less than four months after Ros had given birth.

Ros said she had a lot of support about riding at Burghley while pregnant.

“I’ve had a few people saying, ‘Are you sure?’ and ‘Be careful’ – but on the whole I have had nothing but support,” she said at the time, adding that she had felt better being active.

Unsolicited advice

Amateur rider Katherine Evans, who competes in eventing and dressage, told H&H she continued to ride throughout her first pregnancy, mostly hacking in the latter stages.

“I did some lower level riding club jumping with my older ex-event horse until I was four or five months pregnant, and continued to compete in dressage – but had to stop the mediums as I couldn’t do sitting trot past seven months,” said Katherine, who is pregnant with her second child.

“I waited until around six weeks before I got back on and did my first dressage about three months after I had my little girl.”

Katherine hopes to continue riding throughout this pregnancy.

“Then and now I did it completely based on how I feel and I discussed it with my husband, who was supportive. Like anything with pregnancy there are people who want to give you unsolicited advice but you’ve got to go by how you feel and if the medical professionals tell you it’s ok.

“I backed both my horses and trust them, and actually I found riding was the most comfortable position to be in. It was the getting on and off that became problematic later down the line.”

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‘This is our chance’: a week to have a say in hopes for return to pre-Brexit international horse travel

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 14:20:33 +0000

“This is our chance to make a difference” as there is one week for our voices to be heard on movement of horses and germinal products between the UK and EU.

Defra has opened a “call for information” in relation to work on a new sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) agreement with the EU. This covers trade, production and movement of animals, plants and their products.

“Our ultimate hope is that conditions will return to what was in place pre-Brexit,” British Equestrian (BEF) CEO Jim Eyre said.

H&H has reported at length on the difficulties, delays and huge costs faced since Brexit in travelling horses to the Continent and importing germinal products, including semen. Mr Eyre said the “current parameters for movements to and from the EU aren’t sustainable for our industry – it impacts on each and every one of us”.

“Of course, the additional cost, time and barriers are a huge factor – but for those taking horses through border control posts, the negative impact on equine welfare is unacceptable,” he said.

Complete the form

“This is our chance to make a difference – and put equestrian activities firmly in the conversations around the negotiations. Your submissions will help the British Horse Council and BEF put forward our industry’s case effectively – and convincingly. We need a seat at the table and the more we can represent our industry and activities – and the economic impact current operating conditions continue to have – the better for us all.”

The BEF is asking the industry to complete submissions and share the request, so all areas of the industry are represented. The online form is lengthy but the BEF has created a guidance document and suggested answers to help complete it by the closing date of 23 April.

“Thank you for taking the time to complete a submission on behalf of your business,” Mr Eyre said. “Two hours is a small price to pay if we can get to a revised SPS agreement with the EU which delivers pre-Brexit movements.”

For help email info@bef.co.uk

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Rules on horse abuse, blood, flag penalties and double bridles to be voted on next month

Becky Murray — Sat, 25 Oct 2025 18:45:22 +0000

A reduction in eventing flag penalties and double bridles’ being optional at CDI3* could be introduced from 1 January.

The final draft of the rules that will go to the vote at the FEI General Assembly (4-7 November) has been published following feedback from national federations and stakeholders.

Federations will vote on a new rule that will bring abuse protocols in line across the board. The FEI proposed that by 1 January 2027 national federations must have incorporated abuse of horse provisions – and rules against harassment and abuse – that are “generally consistent” with FEI provisions.

“These provisions will help prevent cruelty, promote responsible horsemanship and uphold the integrity of the sport,” said an FEI spokesperson, adding that the FEI has published a safeguarding template policy to facilitate their implementation and will publish horse abuse templates.

“By setting clear standards and consequences for abusive behaviour, national federations will protect both the horses and the reputation of equestrians, striving to align with the FEI rules as much as possible.”

In eventing, which is undergoing a full rules revision, during the first draft of changes the FEI eventing committee rejected a proposal from the Brazilian federation to bring blood rules in harmony across the disciplines.

The FEI eventing committee said it was “agreed that each discipline is different in terms of how blood might be caused” – but in further feedback dated 10 October, the committee said it was told of a proposed change to the showjumping blood rules (news, 23 October) and “although the wording and resulting sanctions differed slightly from those in eventing, the general principle remained the same”.

It was “therefore agreed” that the eventing rules for the jumping phase would be amended based on the showjumping proposal; blood caused by tack or equipment or induced by a rider will result in a recorded warning. In cases of blood deemed as a result of a horse biting its tongue or lip, in consultation with the veterinary delegate, the combination may continue if the horse is considered fit to compete and no warning will be given.

Under the current rule, horses with blood on the flanks and/or bleeding in the mouth are eliminated – and “minor cases” such as when a horse has bitten its tongue, this may be wiped and the combination can continue, unless bleeding continues.

The proposal for penalties for a missed flag to be reduced from 15 to nine will go to the vote. British Equestrian (BEF) is in favour, but said it would like to see research on “the implications of the change of penalties”.

“If the number of penalties is reduced from 15 to nine, could an unintended consequence be that horses are penalised more frequently for missing a flag as a less severe penalty could make the judging more aggressive?” said a BEF spokesperson.

In dressage, the FEI proposal to allow snaffles at CDI3* level – backed by the technical committee and strategic action planning group (news, 17 July) – has been broadly welcomed. Double bridles are allowed up to CDI2* currently.

But calls have been made for this to be a trial; the European Equestrian Federation, German federation and International Dressage Riders Club proposed two years – and BEF favoured a trial, “to inform future decision-making as a prelude to expanding this further to all FEI competition”.

“Given that no qualifying score is required to compete at CDI3* level, the level of rider expertise can vary, including the use of the double bridle. We would therefore recommend that a formal process is established to collect and evaluate data on bridle choice, incorporating feedback from athlete and official perspectives,” said a BEF spokesperson.

“This information can then be reviewed and considered as part of the full dressage rules revision process in 2026, with a clearly defined timeline for implementation. This will be important, as national federations will need to ensure that combinations are assessed for selection under the same conditions that will be in effect at the championships, and allow sufficient time to align their preparations accordingly.”

No further amendments have been made to include a trial, but the dressage rules are to undergo a full revision next year.

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Research proves horses make people’s lives better – with a social value of £1.2bn

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 16:33:21 +0000

Equestrianism generates £1.2bn in social value every year, is the headline figure from groundbreaking research that it is hoped will help the industry grow and thrive.

The results of research carried out by British Equestrian (BEF) and social value experts State of Life were “proudly” revealed by the BEF at a launch event on 3 October.

“Horses change lives,” said BEF CEO Jim Eyre at the event. “This is a truism for us in the know, but how do we prove it and articulate it to those that don’t? Today we’ll be putting the numbers and personal stories together, to give you that evidence.”

As well as details of the social value figures and what these mean, guests including UK Sport, Sport England and government representatives heard from those whose lives have been changed by horses.

Mr Eyre explained that the research is part of a long-term project to calculate the value of equestrianism, first with Sheffield Hallam University and the Sport and Recreation Alliance on the benefits. State of Life then used the stage one findings, and sector-level and national data, to “calculate a monetary figure on equestrian social value and show that equestrian activity can be a vital contributor to public health”.

“Together this paints a powerful picture,” Mr Eyre said. “Equestrian delivers substantial public benefit, far beyond our great sporting achievement. Today isn’t about commercial turnover, it’s about evidencing far greater value, that equestrianism is good for the economy, people and communities.

“We all know the personal value of caring for, training, hacking or competing with a horse; the physical and mental health benefits. They teach children important life skills; responsibility, love, positivity, as well as dealing with disappointment and managing frustration. But now with this project, the team has actually been able to put a figure to the value of that.

“And why do this now? In a period of national fiscal challenges, grassroots facilities like riding schools, community assets, are under real threat. They are the engine room of our sport, they are the entry point to the world of horses and they allow confidence and connection, particularly for those that may not otherwise have these opportunities.

“As the national conversation shifts into increased physical activity, prevention of long-term health issues, mental wellbeing, inclusion, community resilience, equestrianism can and must be part of that solution. We need to be able to articulate our story better, speak in the accepted language and somehow cut through to educate and inform and change perception.

“You’ll see and hear evidence today, not just the research, but through candid first-hand experiences, of how contact with horses enriches lives. You know it, but we need to parcel it better.”

Lizzie Trotter, a social value expert from State of Life, went through the figures (see box), explaining that the £1.2bn overall value means about £2,000 per adult participant, £3,500 for each young person. Simon Shibli, who worked for Sheffield Hallam during the research, explained why this is important.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“We’re trying to put a monetary value on something that doesn’t have an obvious market or monetary value,” he said. “One reason we’re doing this is to appeal to the policy context. So it’s great we’ve got Sport England and UK Sport in the room.

“We have government policy about getting active, and we have Sport England uniting the movement. We also have in Sport England a new chief executive, Simon Hayes, who apparently is very interested in numbers and metrics. So in terms of demonstrating your worth to the people who control the purse strings, it’s very important we have this kind of evidence.”

Professor Shibli said the Government strategy for sport has five outcome areas – physical and mental health, community and individual development and economic. His co-presenter, Ricky Boardman, from the Sport and Recreation Alliance, explained how equestrianism achieves all of them.

“For physical health, the good news is that the elements of equestrian activity are consistently recognised as meeting the thresholds for moderate intensity physical activity per week, so we access all the benefits associated with physical activity,” he said. “But there are specific studies producing interesting findings.”

Mr Boardman said five minutes of riding at walk has been found to cause 500 neuromotor inputs, signals that control muscle, every five minutes. Research has found that equine therapy has significant benefits to people with cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis and autism spectrum disorder. And riding – a real rather than a mechanical horse – may improve chronic back pain.

Further research has found that 50% of veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms showed “marked improvement” during and after equine therapy.

“They used MRI scans to look at brain function and found [changes in] areas of the brain associated with emotion processing and reward circuitry,” he said. “Equine-assisted therapy really helps rebuild those neural pathways and that helps produce improved calmness and ability to empathise, emotional control, sympathy, trust – all these benefits of the horse that everybody in this room is going to know about.

“But critically, the point of this study is that it’s not just horse enthusiasts talking about it, it’s objectively measured. It is true. It’s not just an anecdote. It now has hard evidence to back it up.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Some 90 research papers addressing mental wellbeing showed that for people who had usually never engaged with horses, equine intervention improves attendance and attainment at school, reduces poor and increases good behaviour, reduces gaming addiction and even domestic violence.

“Papers also indicated that horsemanship skills are associated with positive life skills and volunteers found their career prospects increased as a result of that volunteering.

“And on community development, we’ve touched on how many people have made friends through these networks, and that’s borne out.

“One study found working with horses not only increased the frequency and the variety of words autistic patients were able to utter after intervention, but also that that benefit was sustained after the project was closed.”

Panel discussions featured people whose lives have been changed by horses, including Jhemar Jonas, who lost his older brother to knife crime, Khianna Lucas-Young, who lost her sight as a child, and Jenny Ellis, who was told she would never amount to anything.

Jhemar was introduced to horses by charity Power of Polo and is now a youth worker who advocates for the power of horses. Khianna won her class at the Riding for the Disabled Association national championships this year and Jenny is an international groom, working at championships across the world.

Khianna, who was diagnosed with leukaemia at seven, then developed neuromyelitis optica, a condition of the nervous system, which temporarily paralysed her from the neck down and caused her to lose her sight permanently.

“Losing my vision, especially as a young teenager, really affected my mental health,” she said. “I was under mental health care and there was talk of medication and all sorts. But I didn’t have to go through that, luckily. I had over a year of counselling but the thing that really brought me through, because I was in a really dark place – no pun intended – was horses.”

Jenny said she was told as a young person she was “as thick as pudding”. She described watching others achieve while she “spiralled downhill”, into a world of sexual and physical abuse and poor mental health.

“All that time, the pony I found was my best mate,” she said. “He was the only one that I could talk to about any of this and he absolutely saved me. Horses have been the scaffolding of my life. They absolutely saved my life and they’ve given me life.”

Changing direction

Jhemar said that the death of his brother sent him in a direction he managed to change thanks to horses.

“Where I come from, we’re used to shootings and stabbings on a regular basis,” he said. So it’s quite easy for young people to think, ‘Violence is the way we do things.’ But whoever you are, wherever you come from, horses humble you. You see them and think, ‘Maybe I’m not as bad as I thought I was!’ It was humbling but in the most beautiful way.

“The experience you have once you’re connected is something unlike anything else. Every time you’re on a horse, you blow your mind again.”

Jhemar now works with young people who are at the highest risk.

“One thing I’m inspired about is that I get to show a lot of other young people that look like myself, that actually it’s possible,” he said. “I feel it’s definitely something that has potential to start conversations between a lot of communities like mine and others.

“A lot of people in the horse world mirror horses’ values. One thing I love about the equestrian world, I meet people from walks of life, people that have had money for decades and we’ve always had that mutual respect and like wanting to know about each other.”

What happens next?

The BEF’s Abigail Bevan covered the “what next”, what this proof will mean for the horse world.

“This is just the launch,” she said. “This isn’t the end. This is just the end of the start.”

Ms Bevan added that a big priority is to use the social value of riding schools, which shows how important they are, to help them thrive.

“We’re already beginning work on how we use this, how we help riding schools, look at funding,” she said. “And how are we going to continue this conversation? We’ve been talking with Sport England, but it’s also for us to speak to government and health and education providers.

“All these figures and findings will really help open up those conversations for us, and the next steps are to make sure we keep the momentum going, keep learning and roll this out, keeping working with the Government and continuing the conversation.

“The report concludes: “This report is a turning point for equestrianism and the industry that lies behind it. It can act as both a mirror, reflecting what we already know about the life-changing impact of the equestrian industry and a megaphone, amplifying that message with robust, Treasury-aligned evidence.

“In a policy environment focused on impact, inclusion and value for money, we now have the data to demonstrate our worth. What is needed next is stronger advocacy, better infrastructure and more strategic support to ensure this value is protected, developed and multiplied for future generations.”

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Historic team gold secured at European Para Dressage Championships as competition goes down to the wire

Becky Murray — Sat, 06 Sep 2025 16:38:41 +0000

Germany has won a historic team gold at the 2025 European Para Dressage Championships – as Britain finished just off the podium in fourth.

The team medals remained open right until the final combination of the day, Britain’s grade IV Nicola Naylor and Humberto L, rode their test, resulting in a thrilling competition in Ermelo, the Netherlands, today (6 September).

Germany finished on a final score of 224.454 for gold, the Netherlands won silver on 223.362, and bronze went to Denmark 221.974. Great Britain finished just outside of the medals on 221.267.

“It’s incredible. It’s like a dream right now,” said German chef d’equipe Nico Hörmann. “Thank you to the Netherlands, Denmark, and Great Britain for the great competition. It was really close, and we were on the right side today.”

Germany’s oldest team member, 70-year-old grade II Heidemarie Dresing, said she was “very proud of the team”, praising their “great team spirit”.

“We are proud of winning the gold medal for the first time – it’s a little bit of a surprise,” said Heidemarie.

How the action unfolded

On the second day of team action the sun came out for the grade IV and V riders and there was a buzz of excitement at the Netherlands’ National Equestrian Centre. Denmark had sat in provisional gold overnight (221.766), Britain in silver (221.267) and the Netherlands’ in bronze (220.567) – all with one rider to go. But Germany still had two big scorers to come.

The grade V got under way first, and Isabel Nowak and 14-year-old gelding Siracusa Old kept Germany in the hunt for gold with 72.82%, producing a test she was thrilled with as she threw her hands in the air in celebration after the salute.

The pressure fell on the home-side’s final rider, Britney de Jong and her long-term partner Caramba NOP. Britney showed off the 18-year-old gelding’s big extended trot, trending early at 73%. They exhibited control and athleticism in their lateral movements, before a bold extended canter, breaking the 74% barrier. They completed on 74.40%, at the top of the rankings in this section – giving the Netherlands a final team score of 223.362.

“We know what we can do, so it was a case of ‘We need to do that now’,” said Britney, about her test, having just missed out on individual gold on Thursday (4 September).

“Overall I was really happy about the test. He was more forward, we had some more expression, things like the half-passes were better than Thursday.”

All eyes then turned to Germany’s Regine Mispelkamp and Pramwaldhof’s Bayala – who had won individual gold in this grade two days earlier. The 10-year-old mare had a big spook on the outside of the arena, moments before turning down the centre line, and the first halt looked a little unsteady, but they promptly regained their composure and their marks began to climb.

The extended canter allowed Pramwaldhof Bayala to really shine, but the final rein back dropped their marks slightly, the pair completing on 74.11%. The score was just shy of Britney and Caramba’s, but enough to put Germany in front at this stage on a final score of 224.454, ahead of the Netherlands.

Regine said Pramwaldhof Bayala “felt a bit nervous, but in a positive way”.

“She was so light in the hand, and she went into the corners much better. She trusted me more today, and we worked together,” she said.

“I think we had a strong extended canter, and the half-pass to the left she felt great. On that side I’m not as strong, but she said ‘Ok, I have to help you’, and that’s a wonderful feeling.”

Turning to the grade IV riders, it was Denmark’s chance to keep themselves in the mix, and their final rider Pia Wulff Jelstrup came forward with nine-year-old mare Zafia. A mistake in their medium trot proved expensive, resulting in two 5s and their trending score to fall to 68%, but they pulled it back to post 72.22%. This slotted Denmark into the bronze position on 221.974, but the door was still wide open for Great Britain.

The team competition goes down to the wire at the European Para Dressage Championships

Final combination of the day and championship first-timers, Nicola and Humberto L started positively, but the sensitive 13-year-old gelding looked more aware of his surroundings than during their individual bronze-medal winning performance of Thursday. A spook in the collected trot transition was costly – one judge giving a four – but they recovered well, to finish on 71.41%.

“I’m really pleased with him, he did really well. I went in there today with a bit more expression, and when I got in there I could feel that he was a bit nervous, so it was sort of a quick decision of how much do you go for, and how much do you hold his hand? I could feel that he was just a little bit unsure,” said Nicola, who owns Humberto with Rosalind Emery Kay.

“His medium canter was really lovely, I was pleased that he was able to relax into the walk work and I think he did one really nice pirouette. Of course we got the spook; the problem is that I can’t see whatever it is he sees, I can just feel it in his body and then I know he’s nervous.

“But he was great, I had to hold his hand and keep my leg on, and he went past whatever he was looking at. Whatever monster he found, he got through it.”

In the team medals, only the best three scores count and so Nicola’s score was dropped. Britain’s 221.267 was the result of Jemima Green and Fantabulous (72.100), Gabby Blake and Strong Beau (74.000) and Mari Durward-Akhurst and Athene Lindebjerg (75.167).

What dreams are made of

Britain was fielding a new team at this year’s European Para Dressage Championships; Nicola and Jemima Green were making their championship debut, Gabby Blake returned to the squad for the first time since the 2023 Europeans, and Mari Durward-Akhurst was on the team in Paris last summer.

“It’s lovely to be part of the team, it’s what dreams are made of,” said Nicola.

“We’re a completely new team, we’ve all pulled together. It would be wonderful to walk home with a team medal, but it was all so close, so we’ve got everything to look forward to and nothing to complain about.”

British Equestrian para dressage performance manager Georgina Sharples told H&H the feeling was “mixed emotions”.

“I’m incredibly proud of this group of riders. We obviously have a new team here, two championship debutants, a seven-year-old horse, and the fact they came out and performed the way that they did. Three individual medals and a fifth place out of three grades was phenomenal,” she said.

“I’m disappointed for the team, we are ambitious and I think it’s well within our grasp – you can see how close it is. It’s literally points of percentages that make the difference. But that said, these guys are going to learn so much by coming here.”

All four Brits have qualified for the individual freestyle tomorrow (7 September). Times to follow.

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Changes to flag penalties, whip use, and hats at trot-ups proposed in eventing

Becky Murray — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 18:02:58 +0000

Whip use, flag penalties and ensuring that horse and riders are ready before they move up a level are among the topics under discussion in the FEI eventing rules revision.

The first draft of the 2026 rule change proposals has been published, as the eventing rules undergo a full review this year.

The US federation has called for the whip to only be permitted “to support the natural aids in encouraging the horse forward” and not to be used “to discipline”. The FEI eventing committee supported this and added that the whip is not to be used when its action is not related to a fence in cross-country or showjumping.

The FEI also proposed that pressing a tired horse should mean an automatic 25 penalties, and the existing recorded warning.

British Equestrian (BEF) tackled the topic of horse and rider experience, proposing that in addition to minimum eligibility requirements, the horse form index (HFI) – developed by EquiRatings and the FEI to track performance – be used for three-star competitions and upwards.

A BEF spokesperson said this would “stop those athletes, parents and owners” who take a “because I’m qualified, I’m ready, approach to competition”.

“This has been successfully used in Ireland. This is especially relevant to the CCI4* and CCI5* events where good pictures of the sport and social licence are very much in the public eye,” said the spokesperson.

The FEI eventing committee disagreed with this and “would instead like to encourage federations to be more vigilant and review what competitions riders are entered”.

The Swedish and German federations and the European Equestrian Federation (EEF) eventing working group suggested a reduction in the penalties for activating a frangible device from 11 to four, stating that there are more frangibles now and “therefore the chance to get a MiM is much higher than it was”.

The FEI responded: “The eventing committee is not in support of reducing the penalty of activating frangible devices, especially as it has improved cross-country riding; it is meant to prevent a rotational fall, and the consequence of activating it should remain as is.”

But the FEI was in agreement with reviewing missed flag penalties. The Pan-American Equestrian Confederation suggested this be reduced from 15 to seven as while missing a flag is an error, it is one that “does not result in potential harm to horse or rider”.

“The eventing committee agrees that the penalty for missing a flag should be less than that of activating a frangible. However, it should still be larger than that of knocking down two obstacles during the jumping test,” said the FEI, proposing that missed flags should result in nine penalties.

Dressage scores at championships and five-stars was raised by the BEF, the Swedish federation and the EEF eventing working group, who called for a permanent judges’ supervisory panel to ensure a “level playing field”, following a pilot on this last year.

The FEI said although the idea of introducing a remote review process was discussed at the Sports Forum, there are cost concerns. But “as a compromise” the eventing committee suggested changes to dressage scoring disputes.

“If the score for a flying change, halt or rein-back varies by three points or more between judges, the ground jury will review the official video as soon as possible after the test,” said the spokesperson, adding that the review must be on the same day, score corrections will only be made with ground jury agreement and “should be based on one or more of the original scores”.

The Polish federation has called for under-18s to wear safety helmets at trot-ups. The FEI medical committee is “investigating” – but felt that safety during horse inspections requires a broader approach, “not solely based on age”.

National federations have until 26 August to give feedback on the proposals. A final draft will be published in October, ahead of voting at the FEI general assembly on 7 November.

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New rules proposed around blood, eliminations and whips in showjumping

Becky Murray — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 13:00:49 +0000

Blood eliminations in international showjumping continue to be a major focus – and padded batons are proposed as a replacement for traditional whips.

The FEI jumping rules are undergoing a full revision, and the first draft of proposed changes has been published by the FEI.

The International Jumping Riders Club (IJRC) has continued its calls for proportionality around sanctions for micro cases of blood, particularly when riders are eliminated at championships, as was the case with Brazilian rider Pedro Veniss at Paris.

The IJRC has proposed that when blood is found on a horse’s flank, if it has occurred by an “inappropriate act”, or “remains bleeding after wiping”, the combination is immediately disqualified. But in the case of a “micro lesion or mark”, deemed accidental by a vet, the combination instead gets a “not classified” result. For first-time micro cases the IJRC suggested riders be given a warning, second warnings result in yellow cards and third warnings “heavier” sanctions.

“One of the fundamental principles of law establishes the proportionality between sanctions and violations of the norm, something which is not currently contemplated by our regulations,” said an IJRC spokesperson.

“For this reason, micro lesions which do not cause suffering to the horse cannot be considered in the same way as lesions caused by excessive use of spurs or horse abuse.”

The Swedish federation called for horse abuse and blood rules to be “harmonised” across disciplines – and the Irish federation suggested the blood rule be amended to specifically state “blood on the horse caused by spur or whip”, as the federation has had cases of horses “cut by hitting wings, flags etc, which is nothing to do with the rider”.

In response, the FEI proposed that if blood on a horse is considered to be “minor and a result of natural causes”, for example biting the lip or an insect bite, this may be wiped and riders may continue. But if bleeding persists, or there are welfare concerns, officials may eliminate the rider.

The FEI proposal states that the rider would not receive a recorded warning, if this applies – but goes on to state that “any minor blood cases” will result in a recorded warning for first and second offences – and should a rider receive two or more warnings in 12 months, they will be fined CHF1,000 (£933) and suspended for a month.

Blood not considered to be minor will result in elimination or disqualification, and maybe separate disciplinary proceedings. H&H asked for further clarification on this and was told by the FEI it is a “first draft”.

Fairness and horse welfare

Discussing the FEI’s proposal, IJRC director Eleonora Ottaviani told H&H that the club “acknowledges the difficulty of drafting rules that fairly distinguish between intentional and accident violations”.

“It is essential to balance three key factors; public perception, the respect and welfare of the horse as an athlete and partner, and the proportionality of the sanction,” she said.

Ms Ottaviani added that the IJRC welcomes a “revised approach” to the blood rules but would prefer that a vet rather than an official assess whether a case of blood should be considered minor or not.

“This is the most crucial aspect of ensuring both fairness and horse welfare,” she said.

“The IJRC agrees with the implementation of a one-month suspension in case of repeated warnings, as it provides a clearer distinction between isolated accidents and repeated negligence.”

The IJRC has called for an amendment to provide clarification on when a ground jury president can ring the bell to eliminate a rider mid-round and suggested that in “doubtful or unclear situations”, the president should allow the rider to complete the course.

“This ensures that official footage or other available technology can be reviewed to determine whether the rider should be eliminated or not. The president may notify the rider at the end that the result is under review before confirming the final outcome,” said the IJRC spokesperson.

The FEI rejected this owing to “subjectivity” around the wording “doubtful and unclear”, and that elimination decisions were for the ground jury president to decide.

Calls for change to whip rules

British Equestrian (BEF) proposed that whips allowed in FEI competitions be changed to padded batons, as was introduced in British national competitions in 2022.

“Prior to this we regularly had horses which had been marked (or blood drawn) by the use of traditional whips and since the introduction of the padded baton we have not had a single horse marked (or blood drawn) in warm-up or competition arenas,” said a BEF spokesperson.

“During this time, we have continued to see horses in FEI competitions marked by excessive use of the whip and sanctioning the rider after the event while a deterrent still means that a horse has been hit excessively.”

The FEI responded that current tack and equipment rules will remain in force in 2026, and proposed to remove tack and equipment requirements from sport rules to separate standalone documents for each discipline to allow changes to be made outside the rule revision process, when needed.

Stakeholders have until 26 August to give feedback. A final draft of proposals will be published in October, before voting at the FEI General Assembly on 7 November.

What do you think about the new rule proposals? Write to us at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance for your letter to appear in a forthcoming issue of the magazine. Letters may be edited for clarity and length.

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‘Exciting foursome’ named as Britain aims to defend team title at European Dressage Championships

Becky Murray — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 12:04:52 +0000

The terrific trio that delivered an Olympic bronze medal last summer have been named on the British team for the European Dressage Championships – as a newcomer gets ready to make his first full senior championship appearance.

Today (31 July) British Equestrian (BEF) and British Dressage (BD) confirmed the four combinations that will be Britain’s definite entries for the European Dressage Championships, taking place in Crozet, France, from 26 to 31 August.

Last summer’s team of Carl Hester, Becky Moody and Lottie Fry have returned following their success in Paris, where Lottie also won an individual bronze – and they are joined by Andrew Gould, who was travelling reserve at Versailles.

The team chef d’equipe Darrell Scaife said “what an exciting foursome to be taking to France”.

“Carl will be riding in his ninth consecutive Europeans, Lottie has been a team regular since 2019, while for Andrew and Becky, it’s their Euros debut. But all four have considerable experience and with Lottie and Becky featuring the world’s top four and a number of personal best performances from the group this spring, we carry great form to the championships,” he said.

“The horses and riders have one of the best support teams behind them – both at home and via the World Class Programme and I’m looking forward to working with each and every one as we prepare for Crozet and look to successfully defend our team title.”

British team for the 2025 European Dressage Championships

Definite entries for the British Equestrian dressage team, in partnership with Agria, in alphabetical order by athlete surname:

Lottie Fry with 14-year-old stallion Glamourdale

Owners: rider and Van Olst Horses

Breeder: J Rodenburg

Breeding: by Lord Leatherdale, out of a mare by Negro

Groom: Richard Hauwaerts

Andrew Gould with 12-year-old stallion Indigro

Owners: Tatiana and Max Skillman

Breeder: J Deenen

Breeding: by Negro, out of a mare by Jazz

Groom: Natalie Campbell

Carl Hester with 15-year-old stallion Fame

Owners: rider, Fiona Bigwood and Mette Dahl

Breeder: VOFG and M Gerritsen

Breeding: by Bordeaux 28, out of a mare by Rhodium

Groom: Lucy Scudamore

Becky Moody with 11-year-old gelding Jagerbomb

Owners: rider and Jo Cooper

Breeder: rider

Breeding: by Dante Weltino, out of a mare by Jazz

Groom: Kim Masson

Selection decisions are subject to the athlete and horse maintaining fitness and performance, and this list may be amended at any point up to midnight on Tuesday 19 August.

“We’re very excited to have the same team of athletes and horses available from the Paris Olympic Games. Andrew makes the step up from reserve and having that experience to draw on will give him great confidence in his first full senior championship team appearance,” said Judy Harvey, BD international director and chief dressage selector.

“All the horses have continued to improve in the year since Paris, and we head to Crozet excited to see what they can deliver. This is a great group of athletes who will be fully supportive of one another to create an atmosphere conducive to producing top performances. We’re set for a great week – bring it on!”

A BEF spokesperson added that the funding the British Equestrian World Class Programme receives from the National Lottery and UK Sport is “pivotal in preparing our teams for senior championships and supporting them on the ground”.

“British Equestrian is also extremely grateful for the support we enjoy from our partners – Agria, Bates Saddles, Dodson & Horrell, NAF, SEIB and Toggi – and team suppliers – Equi-Trek and Lotus Romeo. We’re indebted for the year-round support they provide to the World Class Programme and British teams, which helps us to best prepare for senior championships,” he said.

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New names and medallists carry Britain’s hopes at European Para Dressage Championships

Lucy Elder — Mon, 21 Jul 2025 13:15:02 +0000

Medallists and senior championship first-timers have been named on the British squad for the para dressage Europeans in Ermelo, the Netherlands (3 to 7 September).

The riders on the team, in partnership with Agria, are Gabriella Blake (pictured, top), Mari Durward-Akhurst, Jemima Green and Nicola Naylor.

British Equestrian para dressage performance manager Georgina Sharples said that the squad is “an exciting group of athletes with a real blend of experience”.

“We have Mari and Gabby, who have both previously won championship medals for their country with Athene Lindebjerg and Strong Beau, and are eager to do so again,” she said.

“Nicola has been on superb form and delivered a consistently impressive campaign with Humberto L for her long-awaited championship debut, while newcomer Jemima has forged a strong partnership with her quality young horse, Fantabulous, and is on an upward trajectory to peak at the Europeans.

“I feel confident that all four combinations have the talent to deliver on the world stage.”

Ms Sharples added that it has been an exciting start to this Paralympic cycle “and one we hope will continue in Ermelo”.

“While our goals are as competitive as ever and we remain on the hunt for medals, this team line-up also gives us the opportunity to develop some exciting potential for the future as we build towards next year’s FEI World Championship at Aachen and the LA28 Paralympic Games,” she said.

British team for para dressage European Championships

Grade I

Gabriella Blake with 16-year-old gelding Strong Beau

Owners: Gavin and Estelle Blake and rider

Breeders: S Amos

Breeding: by Spinway Blackthorn, out of a Balda Beau mare

Mari Durward-Akhurst with 18-year-old mare Athene Lindebjerg

Owners: Diane Redfern, Nick Durward-Akhurst and Rob Waine

Breeders: Ulla and Kristian Bech

Breeding: by Gribaldi, out of a mare by Diamant

Grade II

Jemima Green with seven-year-old gelding Fantabulous

Owner: rider

Breeder: Rainer and Angelika Ahlers

Breeding: by Foundation 2, out of a Furst Romancier mare

Grade IV

Nicola Naylor with 13-year-old gelding Humberto L

Owners: Rosalind Emery Kay and rider

Breeder: J Lamers

Breeding: by Cachet L, out of a Haarlem mare

The grooms’ names have not yet been confirmed. Selection decisions are subject to the athletes and horses maintaining fitness, and may be amended up to midnight on 20 August.

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Turning words into action to ensure everyone can enjoy the horse world

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 15:55:48 +0000

The second year of British Equestrian’s (BEF) diversity and inclusion action plan is about “turning words into tangible action and results”.

The BEF has officially launched year two of its plan, which sets out objectives and actions for the next 12 months.

“This ‘road map’ is vital as we and our 20 member bodies continue a long-term commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable equestrian community,” a BEF spokesperson said, adding that it builds on initiatives from the first year, guided by the BEF’s “Horses For All” strategy launched in late 2023.

The spokesperson said the strategy’s core aim is to make inclusion reality every day, at every level.

It aims to give “every individual the opportunity to thrive, regardless of background with a clear vision of an equestrian community truly representative of society, where everyone feels valued, safe and a strong sense of belonging”.

BEF CEO Jim Eyre added that the team is very proud of the progress made so far, which has “motivated us to continue to drive our work forward”.

“This year-two plan deepens our commitment to systemic change by setting out clear, measurable steps we are taking to ensure inclusion becomes part of our everyday thinking and practice,” he said. “This plan is about turning words in a strategy into tangible actions and results – it’s about creating structures and environments where everyone can access and feel they belong in equestrian sport.”

Highlights include new learning materials, a rulebook for all in the industry, inclusive training and improved data collection and tracking.

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Horse world is facing challenges – but weathering the storm

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 16:35:07 +0000

The most recent analysis of the equestrian industry shows the challenges the sector is facing – but also the resilience with which we are meeting them.

British Equestrian (BEF) has published the results of its 2024 “State of the nation” report, which “details a comprehensive analysis of the equestrian landscape across the UK”.

“Drawing on research and data from British Equestrian, our member bodies, industry partners and national statistics, the report is used to track trends, highlight challenges and shape strategic plans and projects for the year ahead to support a sustainable and inclusive future for the equestrian sector,” a BEF spokesperson said.

“The 2024 report builds on last year’s inaugural edition and reflects on sector progress, as well as drawing attention to opportunities for development to improve sustainability, resilience and inclusion across equestrianism.”

The report found that participation and engagement are increasing; membership of the 19 member bodies rose by 11.7% between 2023 and 2024, social media following by 13%.

Equestrian centres and charities are under pressure but resilient; riding school numbers are still under threat but more than half “express an interest and capacity to grow”.

The cost of living is still a concern, and the sector’s environmental sustainability is in focus.

The BEF’s social value research found significant physical, social and mental wellbeing benefits linked to riding, equestrian activities and equine-assisted therapy. The report identified workforce challenges, such as low pay, mental health concerns and non-compliance with the law, but when employment is good, there is a positive impact on staff.

Public trust

The report also cites World Horse Welfare research that found moderate public trust in equestrian sport, but that welfare ethics and accessibility are key areas to improve to maintain public acceptance.

“The report sets the foundation to build on projects and initiatives aligned with our five-year strategy,” the BEF spokesperson said. “Ongoing investment in research and improved data capture will enable more informed decision-making and allow for year-on-year tracking of trends that impact the equestrian community.”

Priorities for this year include calculating equestrianism’s overall social value, coming up with solutions to workforce challenges thanks to a new steering group, continued advocation for horse welfare and more research into riding schools to allow the BEF to provide tailored support.

“Data-driven insight gives us the foundation to take meaningful action,” said BEF head of participation and development Mandana Mehran Pour. “The findings provide a clear direction of how we can better support the people, horses and organisations that define our sector.

“By deepening our understanding through data, we’re able to plan more strategically, respond more effectively, better represent the industry and shape a more inclusive, sustainable and resilient future for equestrianism across the UK.”

The report concludes that it provides valuable insight into the landscape of the sector.

“There is both resilience and challenges faced by riding schools, horse owners and equestrian businesses amid a backdrop of economic pressures,” it states.

“The increase in participation rates and federation memberships signals a positive trend, yet the ongoing cost-of-living crisis and environmental impact poses significant threats to equine welfare and the sustainability of riding establishments. Enhanced data capture can facilitate deeper understanding of our audience, and a collective approach towards shared challenges is essential for maximum impact.”

BEF insight and research manager Abigail Bevan added that collecting and analysing data builds a full picture.

“This evidence base helps us track progress over time and shape the future of the sector,” she said.

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‘No stone unturned’: major new deal supports Britain’s top riders until next Olympic and Paralympic Games

Lucy Elder — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 17:29:02 +0000

British Equestrian (BEF) and Agria have signed a major new partnership to make the equine insurer the principal partner of the BEF’s World Class programme.

The pair have described the agreement as “the first sponsorship of this type for British Equestrian in the modern era of the sport”.

BEF performance director Helen Nicholls said: “With Agria behind us, we’re looking forward to the next cycle as we build towards Los Angeles in three years’ time.

“We are fortunate to have a World Class programme which is the envy of many nations and supports the riders in their quests to produce top results time and time again.

“However, our pursuit of excellence across the programme never stops and to have the support of Agria alongside UK Sport and the National Lottery means we can continue to evolve and deliver performances which inspire a nation.”

Agria UK chief executive Vicki Wentworth said: “This new partnership to support elite equestrian sport is the final piece in the jigsaw for Agria’s major collaborations. With our top-to-bottom commitment to horse welfare, competition, education, policymaking and sustainability – along with an unerring love of the horse – this partnership means Agria can play a huge part in helping Britain stay at the top of the world in equestrian sport.

“We share the BEF’s ethos in leaving no stone unturned when it comes to finding the best care, education and training for our horse and human athletes, and we’re immensely proud to support those representing our country in this way.”

Multiple Paralympic gold medallist Natasha Baker added: “As a multiple Paralympian, I know just how vital the help we receive from World Class is – it can be the difference between a medal and coming home empty-handed. So I am thrilled to hear about this new partnership with Agria, which has also supported me for a number of years.

“From best practice while travelling long distances with your horse to rider sports psychology, World Class performance leaves no stone unturned in helping horses and riders to achieve their best on the world stage. This quest is a perfect fit with Agria, which cares passionately about horse welfare and education. I am very excited about this new partnership.”

Britain’s showjumpers will be the first to compete under the Agria banner in this new deal at the Longines FEI Showjumping European Championships (16 to 20 July), followed by the rest of Britain’s senior squads at their respective European Championships this summer. The support will continue to the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

British Equestrian has also signed a new four-year agreement with D&H, so the feed brand will continue its role as official supplier of equine nutrition.

The agreement marks D&H’s fifth Olympic and Paralympic Games cycle of involvement with Britain’s senior championship teams and World Class programme.

D&H will provide diet analysis, feed testing and nutritional advice for horses, as well as supporting in the movement of equestrian feedstuffs for championships up to and including the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games.

D&H managing director Linda Porter said: “We have worked with British Equestrian since 2009 and we are delighted to have extended our nutritional partnership for another four years, incorporating another championship cycle, which will kick off with the FEI European Championships later this year.

“Both British Equestrian and D&H are committed to delivering excellence in nutrition for happy healthy horses, and we work closely with the World Class programme to provide nutritional support to the country’s leading and up-and-coming horses and riders.

“The next four years look set to be yet another exciting chapter for British Equestrian and we are excited to be at the forefront of that.”

BEF chief executive Jim Eyre added: “British Equestrian and our World Class programme are delighted with the news that D&H will once again be a key player as a valued partner.

“Their loyalty and high standards speak volumes about their values as a brand, as well as their ability to continuously innovate.

“We look forward to harnessing their expertise and knowledge as we strive for medals at the elite sport end alongside educating and developing knowledge across the equestrian community.”

Lotus Romeo UK is also continuing its agreement to support British teams with riding jackets and tailcoats in a new four-year deal, up to and including LA28.

Ms Nicholls said: “Over the past years, their jackets have provided our teams with optimum comfort and quality, allowing them to compete at their best while proudly representing Great Britain, and the team at Lotus Romeo deliver an excellent service. We’re looking forward to building on this work to ensure our athletes are fully equipped to perform while looking amazing.”

Claire Hubbard of Lotus Romeo UK added: “Seeing the British athletes perform at the highest level on the field of play in Lotus Romeo jackets and tailcoats is an honour, and we look forward to supporting them over the next four years on their journey to Los Angeles.”

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A summer of dreams, the best selfies ever and an unmatched feat – equestrian sport at the Paris Olympics

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 09 Mar 2025 19:51:00 +0000

A summer of dreams, the best selfies ever taken and a feat unmatched in British sport.

This was the summing up of the equestrian Paris Olympics and Paralympics last summer, by the person who orchestrated the phenomenal teamwork that led to the success.

British Equestrian performance director Helen Nicholls spoke at the National Equine Forum on 6 March, to review Britain’s performance at the 2024 Games.

“I promised last year when we did this presentation that I would come back, good, bad or ugly, and do a post mortem,” she said.

“I’ve got 10 minutes to take you through what was a year of work and a summer of dreams. I probably need about an hour, a bottle of wine and a therapist! But I’ll do my best.”

Ms Nicholls said the team had achieved its dreams, above and beyond what could have been predicted.

“We earned five medals, including two gold, and seven medals from nine events in the Paralympics,” she said. “Every single rider we took to the Olympic and Paralympic Games came back with a medal, a feat unrivalled in British sport.

“That’s not to say it was all plain sailing – far from it – but the mission was well and truly achieved – and resulted in some of the best selfies of all time.”

Ms Nicholls, who added that the showjumpers’ team selfie with the Eiffel Tower in the background was sent at about 3am, asked how success is measured, and that had things gone slightly awry on the day, especially with the three-rider, no drop score format, the results could have been very different.

But, she said, medal-winning is just one part of the World Class programme, which is about finding, preparing and supporting the best riders and horses in the country, to get results and retain expertise to boost the chances of success.

She explained that the “magic” of the programme is taking the number of professionals, in everything from nutrition to research, and “bringing all those together in the right way, in a prioritised order, and you can transform it into something superhuman”.

“There are many nations around the world that have the expertise we have,” she said. “They’ve got brilliant coaches, farriers, saddlers, riders, but ultimately, for us, it’s about how we bring them together.

A unique system

“What we have that’s really special is the system no other country has. In 1997, National Lottery funding from John Major started what we now know as the World Class programme, and that was driven basically on the back of the Atlanta Games, and very poor achievements by Great Britain. It takes National Lottery funding and puts it into delivering results and winning and making the nation proud.

“And that program still runs today, still does exactly the same thing. It’s solely focused on making the nation proud and winning levels. We don’t get involved in running events, we don’t train volunteers, we don’t measure ponies, we don’t try to solve all the problems of the world and other sports. But what we do do is try to run a package of support for each of the riders that increases their chances of being successful. It’s a hugely privileged position, and one of great responsibility, and one me and my team take incredibly seriously.”

Ms Nicholls said the key is that the funding is “mutual money”, the only purpose of which is to deliver results, rather than from private benefactors, which may not always have the desired impact on performance.

“It’s really rare to find mutual funding, and it’s our biggest weapon, so please keep buying lottery tickets! It really makes a difference, and it really, really matters.”

Ms Nicholls also cited Britain’s selection policies, which are a “balance of the objective, the subjective, the art and the science and blending that together”, rather than selecting based on one qualifier. Other nations do the latter, she said, which can help us as they “lose control” over the selection.

“I think the proudest moment I had at the Games was when I saw the teams, and I was really, really confident we had exactly the right people on the right horses at the right time,” she said.

Paralympic success

In para dressage, Ms Nicholls referenced Britain’s success in winning seven individual medals from nine events. This was the first time Britain had not won Paralympic team gold since the sport was introduced, but Ms Nicholls said it is not healthy for any sport if the same country wins gold at every Games.

“One of the things I am proud of is the fact that Great Britain is still playing right at the top of the medal table in an evolving world of that sport,’ she said. “We have lots of thinking to do, about how we keep the horsepower, select athletes, etc, but it is evolving and we’re looking at LA in terms of how we should take that on board.”

Ms Nicholls said one huge positive was how relevant equestrianism was at a modern Olympics, citing the park at Versailles on cross-country day, or the atmosphere when the showjumpers were accepting their medals.

“It was absolutely relevant to the Games,” she said. “Equestrian was the second sport to sell out tickets, and the global audience was massive. Sometimes I think our harshest critics are within our sport and to the external world, it really, really mattered and it was really relevant.”

Of course the start to the Games, as Charlotte Dujardin was suspended just beforehand, was very difficult.

“People ask about it, and my overwhelming reflection was sadness,” she said. “It was sad for everybody involved, sad for the horse involved, sad for the sport. But my overwhelming impression was that it was really, really sad for the athletes who were preparing to deliver their best on the world stage at that time. It was sad that when they went to the mixed zone, the first question they were asked was about that matter, rather than their performances.

A huge thank you

“At this point I’d just say a huge thank you to everybody in the equestrian media for asking those questions, but asking them in a responsible and a caring manner, which really helped us. It was interesting to see some of the media outlets that never pay any attention turned up in Versailles on those days, and they thought they were going to get to the front of the queue in the mixed zone. But I can tell you the equestrian media have got sharp elbows!

“Thank you very much to equestrian sport as a whole. I think when times get tough, you find out who your friends are, and the team can fall apart and splinter, or they can pull together and deliver. We have four amazing performance managers in Dickie Waygood, Caroline Griffith, Di Lampard and George Sharples. And they were not going to leave Paris without delivering those medals.”

Ms Nicholls paid tribute to the whole team who made the success possible, and pointed out that despite a perception that equestrian sport is elite, “that’s not true”. Of our nine Olmpic riders, only three went to private schools.

“It’s a long, long journey, it’s not a quick win and a lot of credit and success when we come home with medals belongs to the sport,” she said.

“Ultimately, our athletes are ordinary human beings doing extraordinary things. They have their own flaws and failings, just like all of us, they have fears and hopes and dreams. The early mornings, the falls, the disappointments and the challenges they face. Three weeks before Paris, on a Saturday morning, I was in Portsmouth hospital with Harry Charles with his arm in a cast to his shoulder, waiting for one of the best surgeons in the world to come and do an assessment on whether his arm was going to actually be ok. That’s when you see what it takes to be a champion and how much is invested, but also how much they have to lose.”

Incredible reserves

Ms Nicholl also praised the reserve riders, Yasmin Ingham, Joe Stockdale and Andrew Gould, who never got to ride but were with the teams throughout, helping at every step, which was “incredible to watch”.

“What human beings they are; they’re special,” she said. And she added that Paris might not long be over but the team has eyes on the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028.

“I was in LA last week,” she said. “It’s busy, it’s hot, it’s expensive, and it’s only three and a bit years to go,” she said. “So we’ve got some challenges. But we know we left some medals behind in Paris, and we know we can sharpen up in some areas. So my promise to you is that in four years’ time, I will come back again, good, bad or ugly. Our commitment is that we will set even higher goals – see you in four years’ time.”

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‘The love of horses brings us together’ in new five-year vision for equestrian sport’s future

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 17:34:28 +0000

A sustainable future with the horse at the forefront of all we do is the goal of British Equestrian’s (BEF) “ambitious” new strategy.

The document, created by the BEF board and executive with input from staff and member bodies, covers the five years to 2030, with a “road map to unite, inspire and grow the 4.3 million-strong British equestrian community for the benefit of everyone who connects with horses”.

“With an uncompromisable commitment to the guardianship of the horse as our guiding principle, the five-year strategy outlines four key strategic priorities with ‘golden threads’ woven throughout to strengthen every consideration, decision and action,” a BEF spokesperson said. “The fundamental values of excellence, respect, integrity, transparency, inclusivity and courage set our culture, while enablers detail the key competencies required to bring the strategy to life and achieve the outlined aims and goals.”

Fields Wicker-Miurin, who took over as BEF chair six months ago, said the past four years have “thrown a lot of challenges” at the equestrian industry and all in it, from Brexit and Covid to the cost of living and public scrutiny of horse sport.

“We recognise these challenges and the need to face them squarely to protect the future for our sport and the horses we love,” she said. “We have spent a lot of time listening, and our strategy reflects what we have heard from a range of different voices in the equestrian world.

“In my six months as chair, I’ve seen first-hand how the love for the horse, whether from a happy hacker or an Olympic medallist, brings us all together. We are all focused on building a sustainable future with the horse at the forefront of everything we do.

“We have a great foundation to build from with every one of Britain’s athletes returning home from the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games with at least one medal, and there is so much more to come. We look forward to working with our member bodies and more widely across the equestrian sector to deliver our strategy and demonstrate the value and positive social impact of our sector to the wider world.”

The key BEF strategic priorities for 2025-2030:

To enable and support a vibrant and healthy equestrian sector
To represent and advocate for the needs of our member bodies and sector at the highest level, both nationally and internationally
To be a leading equestrian nation
To support sustainable growth at all levels, ensuring a thriving, accessible, diverse and inclusive sport.
Equine and human welfare and wellbeing are at the heart of the golden threads, reinforced by partnership and collaboration, equity, inclusion and diversity and environmental sustainability.

BEF chief executive Jim Eyre said: “We are a proud and successful equestrian nation, and with that comes a huge responsibility to ensure the sport can continue to grow and develop.

“Despite the wide-ranging benefits of our sport, the sector is faced with numerous challenges, which we collectively must address and navigate. With the oversight of our board of directors, the British Equestrian team, our member bodies and key equestrian and sporting stakeholders, and underpinned by a robust operational plan, we can deliver this operational strategy to ensure Britain remains at the forefront of the sport, and that the sector continues to thrive into the future.”

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Vigilance advised for horses returning to Britain after foot and mouth outbreak in Europe

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 17:47:47 +0000

British equestrians travelling to Germany are advised to be vigilant – and not return with locally bought hay or straw – owing to a case of foot and mouth disease (FMD) in the country.

Defra announced on 7 February that it had suspended commercial imports of hay and straw from German owing to the risks of carrying disease.

A case of FMD was identified in a herd of water buffalo near Berlin on 10 January – this was the first FMD outbreak in the EU since 2011.

Defra imposed restrictions as a result, on the import of susceptible animals. FMD can affect cows, sheep, goats, all other ruminants and pigs. Horses are not susceptible but can carry and transfer the disease, as can people and transport.

“Therefore, it is advised that anyone travelling to Germany with horses does not not come back with locally bought hay and straw,” a spokesperson for British Equestrian (BEF) said.

“Additionally, measures should be taken while in Germany to ensure that horses do not have contact with wild boar or deer, who could be infected with the disease, or have access to livestock pasture.

“Due to the safeguarding measures in place, horses travelling into the UK from Europe may be stopped on entry and any hay and bedding on board, including haynets, may be held. It’s advised that proof of purchase is made available for inspection.”

The BEF advises that on horses’ return home, strict biosecurity measures should be applied and vehicles thoroughly cleaned.

“These measures will continue to apply until they are revoked or amended by Defra,” the spokesperson said.

When Defra imposed the initial restrictions, farming minister Daniel Zeichner said: “The Government will do whatever it takes to protect our nation’s farmers from the risk posed by foot and mouth disease.

“That is why restrictions have immediately been brought in on animal products from Germany to prevent an outbreak and we will not hesitate to add additional countries to the list if the disease spreads. We will continue to keep the situation under review working closely with the German authorities.”

The last FMD outbreak in the UK was in 2007 and it was quickly contained. In 2001, a major UK outbreak affected more than 2,000 premises and led to the cancellation of events including Badminton Horse Trials and the Cheltenham Festival.

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The Queen hosts celebration to thank Paris Olympic and Paralympic riders

Becky Murray — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 13:24:57 +0000

The achievements of Britain’s Olympic and Paralympic riders in Paris have been celebrated at a ceremony hosted by The Queen.

Yesterday evening (22 January) riders, owners, grooms, support staff, and British Equestrian (BEF) representatives attended a reception at Clarence House, London.

The Queen met the eventing team’s Ros Canter and travelling reserve Yas Ingham, dressage travelling reserve Andrew Gould and para dressage riders Natasha Baker, Mari Durward-Akhurt, Sophie Wells and Georgia Wilson. BEF chief executive Jim Eyre, performance director Helen Nicholls, dressage performance manager Caroline Griffith and para dressage performance manager Georgina Sharples were also in attendance.

The Queen spent time talking to owners and grooms, “acknowledging the vital roles they played in the teams’ successes”.

Mr Eyre thanked The Queen for her hospitality, “enduring support for the equestrian community” and continued patronage of the federation.

“He also took the opportunity to thank the athletes for their hard work and determination during their performances at the Games. He paid tribute to the owners, who are the backbone of our sport, and the grooms who dedicate their lives to the wellbeing of their equine charges,” said a BEF spokesperson.

“He ended by recognising the ‘team behind the team’ – the support staff, the performance managers and the practitioners, who all work tirelessly to ensure the athletes and horses can perform to their best on the world stage.”

The Queen was presented with a commemorative book of photographs, which captured “key moments and the team spirit” from Paris.

“I’m so proud to be your patron and what you achieved in Paris made us all feel very proud to be British,” said The Queen.

“I’m sorry I couldn’t be there, but I was watching every bit of it on television and it really did bring tears to the eyes. Thank you to the whole team for everything you do.”

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Are the blood rules in FEI horse sport working – and how can we move forward?

Becky Murray — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 20:28:17 +0000

The rules relating to cases of blood seen on sport horses while competing in the Olympic disciplines have long applied – and been the subject of debate. The FEI states the rules exist “to protect our horses, and there can be no grey areas when it comes to horse welfare”.

It’s important to note that not all cases of blood mean there is a welfare issue or that a rider has done something wrong. The FEI states “eliminations for blood-related reasons do not imply that there was any intent to injure the horse” and that many incidents are “minor or accidental”. But the consequences are different across the disciplines.

In dressage rules, fresh blood results in elimination. If the judge at C suspects blood on a horse during a test, they will be stopped and, if fresh blood is confirmed, eliminated. If no fresh blood is detected, they may continue.

Fresh blood in the horse’s mouth or area of spurs during the post-test tack check results in elimination, and blood found elsewhere on the body will result in an examination by a vet, who will advise on the horse’s fitness to continue in further competition.

But there are different procedures in showjumping and eventing.

The showjumping rules state that blood (fresh is not stipulated) on the horse’s flanks results in elimination. In cases of horses bleeding in the mouth, “such as where the horse appears to have bitten its tongue or lip”, officials may authorise the rinsing or wiping of the mouth, and allow the combination to continue. But any further evidence of blood results in elimination.

In eventing, the same approach is taken in the dressage phase as the above dressage rules.

For cross-country, the rules state “all athlete induced (spurs, bit and whip) blood must be reviewed case by case”; if the horse shows fresh blood, officials may authorise the rinsing or wiping of the mouth and horses may continue if no further bleeding. Cases of “significant blood” will result in elimination.

In the showjumping phase, blood on the flanks or mouth result in elimination – but the rules add that for “minor cases, such as where a horse appears to have bitten its tongue or lip” officials may wipe the mouth and allow them to continue.

These differences have often generated discussion and questions.

H&H asked the FEI why the rules differ, and was told the disciplines have their own individual sport rules under the relevant technical committee, and “historically, this has led to each discipline codifying their own rules on how cases of blood are handled”.

“The FEI believes that this is an appropriate approach given the significant differences between the disciplines and is generally well accepted by stakeholders,” said an FEI spokesperson.

“Blood is naturally emotive”

Andrew Gardner was a judging supervisory panel member for the dressage at the Paris Olympics and a ground jury member of the Tokyo Olympics. He is a former director of British Dressage and former member of the FEI dressage technical committee.

He told H&H that the judges’ responsibility is “very clear”.

“In dressage, if there is fresh blood on the horse, the judge at C has to apply the rule – and that’s all there is to it. Whether there is a lot of blood or a small amount, the cause is irrelevant to the action that has to be taken,” he said, adding that “horse welfare has to be the paramount element”.

But Mr Gardner added that in his opinion these situations can “sometimes lose context because the outcome is always elimination – but the cause is not assessed by a vet and the public is left to draw its own conclusion”.

“This may not always be fair or accurate,” he said.

“The word ‘blood’ is naturally emotive. It always needs assessment, but what worries me is the risk of inference that with blood there’s a suggestion of a welfare breach, and that can be wrong. We know that blood can be caused by unfortunate, but nevertheless innocent things, like a horse biting and catching its tongue or lip, a fly bite, or a graze. While this always needs to be checked, elimination can be a significant price to pay,” he said.

“However if a rider inflicts harm, that is very different and must be dealt with, and everybody would agree.”

Former international rider Nick Burton was president of the eventing ground jury at the Tokyo Olympics, and officiates at five-star events. He told H&H he can see why there are differences in the rules.

“In eventing we know there is more risk because horses are jumping and there is the chance for impact – but I can see the argument for the rules being the same,” he said.

“No matter what the discipline, at no point should it be acceptable that a horse continues to compete while bleeding, there’s no decision to make.”

Mr Burton has officiated at high-profile events where horses have been stopped for blood. In eventing cross-country, when the ground jury stops a horse, it is checked by a vet before any decision is made on whether it can continue.

“In one case, the horse was checked and it had a very minor graze that wiped clean, and the horse was restarted,” said Mr Burton.

“I’ve also had a situation where a horse was checked and the bleeding continued, so the rider was eliminated. In those cases we have an interview with the rider and they receive an FEI warning card, because the FEI needs to know about these things – and if that’s a recurring situation then obviously something is going very wrong.

“The ground jury has a lot of responsibility, and welfare is the highest priority, but we’re also very aware of the perception of what we’re doing with these animals – and whether that looks OK. If I went to a circus or zoo and saw animals bleeding, I wouldn’t be happy to see that.”

The recording of blood offences

Another discussion point is how blood cases are recorded. A yellow card or warning is not always issued, and is based on the “specific circumstances of the case”.

The eventing rules state that for all “minor cases of blood induced by athlete in the mouth or related to spurs, a recorded warning [which is different to a yellow card] will be issued” – and serious cases indicating abuse, will be dealt with under the abuse of horse rules.

The FEI warning cards database for eventing shows 29 warnings issued between 12 April 2019 and 7 December 2024 for “minor” cases of blood – but these are also recorded as “abuse of horse”. When H&H questioned why they were recorded as abuse when they are “minor”, the FEI said the reference to abuse for these cases was an “input error and the warning list will be updated accordingly”.

In the showjumping official warning database one case appears; of “blood on the horse’s flanks” – and the separate warning cards list does not specifically mention any cases of blood, nor does the dressage warning card list.

In showjumping and dressage, all offences are categorised under “abuse of horse”, “incorrect behaviour” and non-compliance with headgear and sport rules. Both the showjumping and dressage databases list abuse of horse cases, but these do not specify any further details, and it cannot be assumed blood was involved.

Mr Burton said that where he has officiated and there have been blood-related stoppages, none have been abuse-related. But the blood offence on the FEI eventing warning card states “caused by the athlete”, and does not give an option for an injury caused by a graze on a fence, or a horse striking into itself, for example.

“These situations can be emotive, but as a ground jury we have to take action. I once had a rider refuse to sign the card because they said they didn’t cause the blood, and they probably didn’t, but they still received the recorded warning,” he said.

“It’s like a stain on your career”

The International Jumping Riders Club (IJRC) has been outspoken about the rules in showjumping, which will undergo a full revision in 2025. The elimination of Brazilian rider Pedro Veniss at the Paris Games for a “micro case” of blood on Nimrod De Muze’s flanks – taking the Brazilian team out of the competition – generated further discussion.

“No one wants to see a horse with blood on the sides, but the consequences of elimination are also bad for the image of the sport,” said IJRC president François Mathy Jr.

“To be eliminated from the Olympics, the perception is you must have done something really bad; the public will see this as mistreatment.

“Ours is an action sport. If there is a little scratch, no more than a bite from a fly, which is unintentional and requires no veterinary attention, elimination is a huge consequence and unfairly disproportionate.”

New Zealand showjumper Daniel Meech agrees with the IJRC that there should be other options available to stewards, such as issuing a warning, before elimination.

Daniel was eliminated from the Tokyo Olympic individual showjumping final when Cinca 3 was found to have what was deemed to be a spur mark, during the post-competition tack check. Photos showed that Cinca had no wound, rub or sore – and Daniel had never been eliminated for blood previously, or since.

“We do everything for the safety and welfare of our horses, trying to make their lives as comfortable as possible – we don’t want these things to happen. The mark was so small, it was almost a scratch. It wasn’t bleeding, it was an innocent, unlucky accident,” Daniel told H&H.

“In New Zealand we don’t have many showjumpers making the final of an Olympics, and although I wasn’t in the running for a medal, instead of a result, your record says eliminated. It suggests you’ve done something intentional, and that’s there for the rest of your life. It’s like a stain on your career, and you’re almost made to feel like a criminal.

“We work our whole lives for these moments. You have sponsors, owners, and then the public watching – there’s a big scandal, people hear ‘spur mark’ and start speculating.

“If someone is being aggressive or mistreating their horse they should be eliminated and dealt with. But when an accidental scratch disqualifies you from the biggest event in the world, it feels like there might be better ways to handle these things”.

The Swedish approach

Sweden’s national blood rules are the same across the disciplines and have been in place for around 10 years. Notably during the country’s rule revision every two years, the public has the opportunity to give input.

Under the Swedish federation’s rules, if blood is detected anywhere on the horse during competition, the rider must immediately stop and is eliminated. A judge assesses whether the blood has been caused by the rider or not – and if so, a further penalty is issued.

Robert Solin of the federation’s sport department told H&H Sweden’s rules work “very well” and that rider-induced blood cases are “very rare”. During this year’s FEI rules revision the federation proposed a similar system by making the blood rules the same across the disciplines – but this did not make it to the vote at the general assembly. The FEI said proposals to have a “one-size-fits-all” rule have “typically not received widespread support”.

Mr Solin acknowledged that in cases of blood not caused by the rider, it is challenging to cover all instances in a rulebook.

“No regulations are perfect, but they should be as good as possible. We are dependent on what society thinks and it’s really a matter of the existence of horse sport or not – that’s what’s at stake,” he said. “That’s why we want the FEI to assess the rules to make them equal, understandable and applicable – and officials and stakeholders need to know the rules.

“Officials need to be able to say to the public – and riders: ‘We made this decision for these reasons,’ because when decisions are put under scrutiny it is very important to have people that can explain them.”

Mr Solin said the FEI has made good progress on horse welfare and public perception, but highlighted the challenges the FEI faces.

“The FEI is an international organisation with more than 130 member bodies, and the way we view horses is not the same all over the globe. It’s very difficult to move forward sometimes, because it has to be a majority,” he said. “The question is how do you get all these nations to come together?”

Andrew Gardner believes the FEI and national federations “are making a big effort to address the current issues for the benefit of the sport and with the horse as the main priority”. But he questions whether in dressage blood cases should always be dealt with in the same way and lead to rider elimination, or in cases at the Olympics, potential team elimination.

At the Paris Olympics, US dressage rider Marcus Orlob was eliminated when his ride Jane was found to have a “very minor cut”, having knocked herself prior to entering the arena, resulting in the loss of the US team.

Mr Gardner asked if it “would be better” if in these instances a vet examined the horse, and if deemed to be “100% well”, they are allowed to continue.

“That could be a fair way all-round, and could be in the interest of the sport, without ever prejudicing the best care and respect of the horse. Hopefully this would allow the public to be confident in a process that puts the horse first but does not unfairly infer criticism without justification,” he said.

A British Equestrian spokesperson told H&H the current blood rules “largely do what’s required” taking into account the differences across disciplines.

“Ensuring consistency in the implementation and enforcement of those rules can be more of a challenge,” said the spokesperson.

“Riders should have clarity over how and when rules are implemented for a fair and transparent playing field with equine and human welfare of utmost importance. Equally, we must ensure there is support in place for officials, so they have the confidence to make decisions under extreme pressure and act on a case-by-case basis in the best interests of the horse.”

US Equestrian (USEF) believes there is an opportunity for a “degree of cross-discipline harmonisation” of the rules.

“With Marcus Orlob’s elimination it was disappointing as we could not finish as a team, but as we stated during the Games, we respect the rules and understand why the decision was made,” a USEF spokesperson told H&H.

“Without a drop score, it does present challenges, and we are open to having discussion on this rule going forward.”

Olympic dressage rider Laura Tomlinson believes there cannot be grey areas in rules.

“We need to be in a place where ultimate respect for the animal is shown, and that has to be that we’re happy to sacrifice success in those moments,” she told H&H.

But when elimination of a rider can result in the elimination of a team, Laura questions whether there could be a separate rule around blood on limbs caused by minor knocks or grazes.

“It’s a tricky one to sift apart and I can see why it’s cleaner to have a rule with no room for error. But when a horse can spook and nick itself for example, and you’ve spun a whole team, that seems brutal,” she said.

Laura, who has never had a blood-related elimination, said although she does not specifically worry about the possibility of an incident when riding, she thinks about public perception.

“People are desperate to capture a bad image or a little moment. At the moment I’m not at the very top in the sense that I’m not one of the few riders that everyone is watching, but I have been there before and I know what it’s like to feel completely scrutinised,” she said.

“Sport should never be prioritised over equine welfare”

Vet Hans-Christian Matthiesen, a five-star dressage judge and head of the International Dressage Officials Club, believes the blood rules in dressage are “quite clear” and for the outside world “easy to understand” – but said in the ideal world “we should have the same rules across the disciplines, and this is something we need to work on for the future”.

Mr Matthiesen added that although there is a difference between blood from a rider-induced injury and a horse injuring itself, communicating this is challenging.

“It’s still the same picture; a horse with blood on it in competition, and we don’t want that. That’s something we have to be really careful about,” he said.

“In some situations the horse might knock himself, or hit the fence, and we kind of accept that in the horse world. But that is difficult to defend with any good arguments, because although a horse might not be lame, even with a small scratch, they are likely to feel pain.”

Discussing how we communicate blood-related incidents to the public, Nick Burton believes riders and owners can play a role.

“I think they should take responsibility by putting out a statement and make a very clear message about their concern for their horse, and reassurance that their horse is OK. For me that would be quite powerful,” he said.

World Horse Welfare chief executive Roly Owers told H&H the charity feels the blood rules are “appropriate and working well”.

“Of course, there is room for improvement, as it is immensely difficult to create rules covering every eventuality and will not inadvertently penalise individuals who have just suffered bad luck,” he said.

“But the principle of the rules – that we should take a zero-tolerance approach to allowing horses to compete when they have open wounds – is sound in terms of protecting equine welfare and the image of the sport.”

He added that having the same rules for all disciplines would help with understanding – from inside and outside the sport..

“We acknowledge, however, that the magnitude of risk for a horse going cross-country is very different from that of a horse doing a dressage test – and any rule needs to be realistic,” he said.

H&H asked Mr Owers if blood-related scenarios can ever be deemed ‘OK’ or defended, for example when a horse knocks itself.

“No injury that breaks the skin and draws blood can be described as ‘OK’ and these occurrences should never be accepted as a by-product of the sport. Everything needs to be done to avoid injury to horses, no matter how it occurs,” he said.

“I acknowledge there will always be ‘bad luck’ stories. But sometimes an injury that doesn’t appear to be caused by something the rider ‘did’ may happen because of the way the horse is ridden or reacts to the situation – and this is often down to the way they have been prepared and trained.”

Mr Owers concluded that the most important point is that the “reality of the sport should never be prioritised over equine welfare”.

● What are your thoughts on the blood rules in horse sport? Write to us at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance for your letter to appear in a forthcoming issue of the magazine

Six-figure funding boost for British horse sport

Lucy Elder — Mon, 23 Dec 2024 20:22:31 +0000

Equestrian sport in Britain will receive a six-figure increase in funding ahead of the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The investment comes from UK Sport, which has allocated £12,075,000 for equestrian and £3,625,000 for para equestrian for the LA funding cycle (2025 to 2029). The money allocated by UK Sport comes from the £330m pot of Government and National Lottery funding that is being split across 50 sports.

This marks a 2.8% increase (£328,374) in its contributions towards Olympic equestrian disciplines, and a 9.7% (£321,757) rise in the money UK Sport gave to para dressage ahead of Paris.

“We are extremely grateful to UK Sport for their recognition and belief in our ability to deliver medals and meaningful results on the global stage,” said British Equestrian performance director Helen Nicholls.

“Thanks also to the Government in providing financial stability and security with this enhanced commitment to elite level sport – being able to plan long-term is a key in sporting success and gives a huge performance advantage.

“The LA cycle will certainly be a financial challenge across our four Olympic and Paralympic disciplines, but we will work hard and smart to support our athletes to develop and grow, as well as inspiring the next generation and new supporters with their achievements and stories, in and out of the saddle.”

This cycle also includes the 2025 and 2027 European Championships, plus the 2026 World Championships.

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‘Extra vigilance’ advised as neurological equine herpes reported in France

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 14:55:37 +0000

Anyone who has travelled horses from or intends to travel them to or through France is advised to be “extra vigilant” owing to a reported outbreak of equine herpes virus (EHV-1).

British Equestrian (BEF) and its member bodies have shared a statement today (19 November) to say they are monitoring the reported outbreak of the neurological form of the virus.

“While this is an evolving situation and we await official confirmation, all members of the equestrian community who have recently been to, are currently in or intending to travel to/through France should be extra vigilant at this time,” a BEF spokesperson said.

“Please seek veterinary advice before travel and isolate any returning horses as per the quarantine protocols.”

BEF member bodies will be in touch directly with any riders they think may be affected but overall advice applies.

Horses returning to the UK from, or having travelled through, France should undertake quarantine protocols under two options:

Slow track (28 days’ quarantine with clinical monitoring and testing if EHV signs are suspected)
Fast track using paired swab and blood testing at least 10 days apart with clinical monitoring

There should be extra awareness of all horses returning from France or having travelled through the country.

EHV-1 is an airborne disease that can be transmitted up to five metres via coughing, but also through direct contact, via people and shared equipment. It can cause respiratory and neurological signs, abortion in pregnant mares and death of young foals.

In spring 2021 a major EHV-1 outbreak brought all equestrian sport across Europe to a halt with the deaths of 18 horses and confirmed cases in 10 countries.

For more information, visit the BEF website or the FEI database. The BEF has a biosecurity page to help mitigate risk.

“We will continue to follow developments in France via our Equine Infectious Disease Advisory Group and work with member bodies to update any advice accordingly,” the BEF said.

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New partnership aims to ‘improve the lives of horses in Britain’ – while Thelwell supports Shetlands

Becky Murray — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 17:38:30 +0000

Agria has been named British Equestrian’s equine insurance partner, with the aim “to improve the lives of horses in Britain”.

The partnership pledges to “bring to life the key social impact areas” in which BEF and Agria are aligned, including equine welfare, wellbeing and sustainability, through a range of content, training and initiatives. There will be a focus on the BEF’s Charter for the Horse, launched in April, “namely empathy, care, respect, consideration and ethics and learning”.

“At Agria we are very aware that a healthy horse is a happy horse — and vice versa,” said Agria CEO Vicki Wentworth.

“Along with our team of Agria-sponsored riders and partners, we put a lot of energy into content creation and communication around welfare, especially around the five key domains of nutrition, environment, health, behaviour and mental state. So, working more closely with British Equestrian as their equine insurance partner is a brilliant next step, especially as equestrianism works to ensure all riders put the care of the horse first, throughout its lifetime.”

Agria’s Vicki Wentworth and British Equestrian chief executive Jim Eyre. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

An Agria spokesperson added that the partnership will help “spread more widely the information and best practice all owners and riders need to know to keep their horse as healthy as possible”.

“We’re very proud to combine our own assets and knowledge with the extensive expertise of the BEF and its member bodies through this partnership, to provide the equestrian community with the very best support and information possible, especially around welfare and education,” said Ms Wentworth.

BEF CEO Jim Eyre said the partnership is an “exciting step” in the governing body’s commitment to “enhancing knowledge, empathy and understanding for equine participants at every level”.

“Our emphasis on welfare, sustainability and wellness aligns perfectly with Agria’s expertise and passion for helping horse owners create the best environment for lifelong healthy partnerships with their horses,” he said.

“Agria’s partnership and support comes at a welcome time, as we collectively focus on our responsibilities as guardians of the horse and of the sector.”

Thelwell’s continued support of the Shetland Pony Grand National

For the second season, the late cartoonist Norman Thelwell’s Thelwell Estate will support Cherhill Shetlands in the Shetland Pony Grand National. The stud’s Oldeworlde Daniel and young jockey Fleur Smith have been selected among the nine runners in the class at London International Horse Show (18-22 December).

The Shetland Pony Grand National’s 2024 charity is the Bob Champion Cancer Trust. Fleur and Oldeworlde Daniel will wear the Aldaniti colours – worn by Bob Champion when he overcame cancer to win the 1981 Grand National with Aldaniti – by permission of Barkfold Manor Stud following Oldeworlde Daniel’s victory in the Shetland race at the Bob Champion Cancer Trust charity race day at Wincanton racecourse in October 2023.

“We are delighted that Oldeworlde Daniel and Fleur will be representing Cherhill Shetlands in the Shetland Pony Grand National at London International. It is a true honour to own one of the ponies selected to take part in this prolific event,” said Isabella Bride, Cherhill Shetlands founder.

“Not only am I proud of Daniel and Fleur but of our whole team of riders who work tirelessly in all weathers, all year round to keep both themselves and the ponies in top-notch condition.

“Thelwell has been a brilliant supporter of Cherhill Shetlands throughout 2023 and 2024. It is fantastic that they were our sponsor when Daniel had his very first race at the South of England Show last year and we are now looking forward to having them supporting Daniel at London this December.”

David Thelwell and his sister Penny added that they have “really enjoyed” meeting some of the Cherhill ponies this year, “some of them reminding us fondly of our father’s prolific illustrations”.

“The passion and determination for ponies is apparent within Cherhill in both ponies and riders, and we’re thrilled that this spirit, that is wholly synonymous with Thelwell, lives on and will be represented at this year’s London International Horse Show. Dad would be delighted,” they said.

British Dressage announces official wine supplier

Winners at the BD 2024 NAF Five Star winter championships, and 2025 Le Mieux nationals, will enjoy a celebratory drink thanks to a new partnership between BD and English wine manufacturers Gusbourne.

BD members can also buy Gusbourne wine through exclusive partnership rates through the members area.

“We are incredibly pleased about this opportunity for BD to partner with Gusbourne, the premium English vintage wine producer. With sustainability at its core, we are incredibly proud of what Gusbourne has achieved over the last 20 years in developing their estate and we look forward to sharing their story to our community,” said BD commercial manager Chris Phillips.

“The partnership will present an exciting opportunity for members to taste Gusbourne through exclusive member benefits and onsite experiences at the Gusbourne estate.”

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Steps taken to ensure everyone can enjoy horses’ magic

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 15:33:01 +0000

Everyone should be able to be part of equestrianism and feel valued.

This is the message behind British Equestrian’s (BEF) new diversity and inclusion action plan, which it said is a “crucial step towards ensuring a more inclusive and equitable future for equestrian sport”. The move comes as universities and colleges have joined forces to increase diversity on equestrian and land-based courses.

The BEF plan was inspired by its “horses for all” research, and aims to “address barriers to taking part and promote diversity within British Equestrian, our member bodies and across the wider equestrian sector as well as British Equestrian as a business organisation”.

“Everyone, regardless of their background, should have the opportunity to participate in equestrianism and feel welcomed and valued,” said BEF head of participation and development Mandana Mehran Pour.

“Our plan is a vital step in ensuring that the equestrian sector continues to grow as an inclusive sport, where anyone can experience the incredible relationship that can be built between horse and human, as well as benefiting from the activity and environment.”

The strategy is aimed at creating, it states: “An equestrian community that is truly representative of society, where everyone feels valued, safe and a strong sense of belonging.”

The plan sets out the actions needed to achieve aims in six key areas: leadership and governance, data and diversity indicators, workforce, participation and collaboration, education and accountability, and communication and engagement.

“The horses for all research, which laid the foundation for this action plan, highlighted the need for improved accessibility, representation and opportunities for underrepresented groups within equestrianism,” Ms Mehran Pour said. “We are committed to working with our member bodies and the community to provide equitable opportunities for those who might be underrepresented in our sport.”

She added that the member bodies have been “actively engaged” and the BEF will work with them to develop their own plans.

A BEF spokesperson said: “British Equestrian invites the entire community to join in this journey towards a more inclusive future, where diversity is celebrated, and everyone has the opportunity to participate and succeed.”

As part of the drive to increase the diversity of UK equestrianism, a new guidebook has been released by BLOC (BERF Landex Outreach Collaboration), a collaboration between Hartpury University, Landex educational institutions and the British Ethnic Riders Federation.

“The project aims to enhance diversity and inclusivity in land-based education by opening the doors to more rural campuses, breaking down barriers to participation, and promoting fair access to higher education,” a Hartpury spokesperson said.

“It is hoped that the guide will encourage its target audience, community groups, to explore the outreach activities, engagement programmes and support services offered by members of the BLOC project.”

The guidebook covers the range of associated outreach activities and events across UK university centres.

Hartpury head of inclusivity Linda Greening said: “Historically, participation in subjects including agriculture, animal and equine sciences has been predominantly white, largely due to perceptions of applicants from the global majority.

“This project has sought to address some of those perceptions by inviting community groups to rural campuses to provide tailor-made experiences that go some way to address the myths surrounding study and career opportunities in these areas of study.”

The project also offers activities including subject taster days, campus tours, career pathway workshops, open days and equine events.

“We hope the activities run because of the BLOC guide will help to raise young people’s awareness of and interest in land-based studies, with the British Ethnic Riders Federation there specifically supporting those who choose to participate in equestrianism,” Ms Greening added.

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‘They got what they deserved’: reflections on British riders’ Olympic success – as eyes turn to the Paralympics

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 14:52:14 +0000

The equestrian events at the Paris Olympics have come to a close – after huge and deserved success for the British teams.

There was no individual showjumping medal added to the British haul last Tuesday (6 August); all three combinations had jumped clear in the first round to qualify for the final but Harry Charles withdrew Romeo 88 that morning as the 15-year-old gelding had a small overreach. Scott Brash and Jefferson and Ben Maher and Dallas Vegas Batilly had an unlucky rail each to finish sixth and ninth respectively.

But the team had already secured a fabulous team gold, making it four showjumping golds at four Olympics on the trot, added to eventing team gold and individual bronze and double dressage bronze.

The Queen was among those to pay tribute to the horses’ and riders’ achievements.

“As patron of the British Equestrian Federation, I – along with our entire country – could not be prouder of every member of Team GB for your tremendous tally of medals at the Paris 2024 Games,” she said.

“I am full of admiration for your skill, passion and determination and I send my warmest congratulations to you all.”

British Equestrian (BEF) performance director Helen Nicholls told H&H it had been a very busy couple of weeks – and that the journey home is always better when there are medals on board.

“For the athletes I feel huge pride and relief, and I’m so, so pleased they got what they deserved,” she said. “When you go to the Games with human and equine athletes of the calibre Great Britain has, all you hope is that things will go well for them, and they get the opportunity to deliver what they’re capable of. And when they do, that’s job done.”

Helen said her job is similar to that of a conductor in an orchestra; with all the groundwork and preparation on all fronts before the Games, if all goes well, it is about overseeing the results of that, and knowing when to step in and when not to is key.

But that huge amount of preparation that goes into any championship is often unseen.

“Everyone sees the medals but not the work that goes on to get there,” she said. “I think that’s really important; you see Scott Brash riding that last round and he’s a genius and amazing, but he wasn’t born into it or just given a good horse; to see the journey he has been on to get there is incredible.”

One key to success, Helen added, is the collaboration; the disciplines working together to share positives and learnings.

“We work together as a team and the athletes couldn’t be prouder of each other, and wanted to make sure each was as successful as the other,” she said. “In our accommodation, you wouldn’t know any difference between disciplines and when one won a medal, the others were there to welcome them home.”

The team had to go to Paris straight after the emergence of the video for which Charlotte Dujardin was suspended, but Helen said the response was a united one.

“When you go to any championship you expect something to go wrong,” she said. “This was at the extreme end but you just keep to your system and protect the performance. Our athletes don’t deserve to have their preparation derailed so we protect them at all costs and I think we did that incredibly well. It’s testament to the sport and sport media and people involved that allowed us to do that. Other sports might have turned on themselves but we felt it was a fair and reasonable response from everybody, and everybody pulled their arms together tighter.”

Preparations for the Paralympics (3-4 and 6-7 September) are now in their final stages, as attention turns back to Versailles.

“We’re getting ready to go out there, and the Olympics will have given them the confidence to kick on to take their opportunity to deliver what they’re capable of too,” Helen said.

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Rallying call behind Equestrian Team GB after Charlotte Dujardin’s suspension

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 08:00:03 +0000

“We are privileged to enjoy the company of horses; we must never compromise on their wellbeing”.

This is the message from British Equestrian (BEF) as it commits to working with the FEI and Charlotte Dujardin on the latter’s suspension – and the focus is on the rest of Equestrian Team GB at the Paris Olympics.

H&H reported yesterday that Charlotte had released a statement explaining why she had withdrawn from the British team, and that the FEI had then officially suspended her from competition.

The BEF and British Dressage (BD) have now confirmed Charlotte’s withdrawal, and the fact they have also suspended her, pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.

BEF CEO Jim Eyre said: “As the guardians of equestrian sport, we must uphold the highest standards of equine welfare – the horse’s wellbeing is paramount. We have been in close liaison with the FEI on the matter and will fully comply with any requests to fulfil their investigation and support the robust processes around such complaints.

“The allegations made are serious and the consequences far-reaching but upholding the integrity of our sport remains our priority – we are privileged to enjoy the company of horses; we must never compromise on their wellbeing. We will continue to work with the FEI and Charlotte to complete the process.”

BD CEO Jason Brautigam said BD’s commitment is to “bring people and horses together in harmony”.

“And as part of this we constantly strive to achieve the highest standards of horse care,” he said. “We do not condone any behaviour that goes against our guiding principles and take a zero-tolerance approach to any breach of our equine welfare policies.

“These historic allegations are deeply upsetting for everyone involved in our sport, but we fully support the FEI investigation and will take any appropriate disciplinary action when this process is complete. Our priority now is to rally behind our athletes and horses representing Team GB in Paris as they take on the responsibility of showcasing the best of our sport on the world stage.”

BEF performance director and Equestrian Team GB leader Helen Nicholls said the events of the past 24 hours had been “disappointing on many levels for all affected”.

“No one more than Charlotte Dujardin recognises the part welfare holds in sport and as such has done the right thing in stepping down to allow the FEI tribunal to take place in a timely manner,” she said. “Our focus remains on supporting our athletes to deliver to their potential on the world stage and we look forward to the Games getting under way on Saturday.”

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(Image credit: Benjamin Clark)

Charlotte Dujardin suspended owing to conduct ‘contrary to the principles of horse welfare’

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‘I am deeply ashamed’: Charlotte Dujardin withdraws from British Olympic team after ‘error of judgement’

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British equestrian world proudly unites behind new horse welfare charter

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 16:07:32 +0000

In our privileged position to live a life involving horses, we must champion the best possible standards for their welfare – and this is non-negotiable.

This is the message behind a new Charter for the Horse, a “unified approach to safeguarding our equines and equids”, which launched on 18 March. British Equestrian (BEF), its 19 member bodies and other industry leaders have united to sign the charter, committing to “endorse the highest standards of equine welfare, wellbeing and ethics”.

The charter was developed to be adopted across the industry, by all who have any connection to horses and other equids. Under six headings, of empathy, care, respect, consideration, ethics and learning, the charter sets out what must be done to ensure all our horses’ needs are met.

BEF chief executive Jim Eyre said: “In our privileged position to live and work with horses, we must champion the very best standards and excellence levels for their welfare – it’s non-negotiable, and the support for bringing this overarching Charter for the Horse to fruition has been outstanding.

“There’s been a real passion and sense of determination to make it happen and now we look forward to working with our member bodies, their members and the wider British equestrian community to upholding the charter, with equine welfare at the forefront of all activity.”

The charter “encompasses the essence” of the FEI Equestrian Charter, created by the independent Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission (EEWC). The British version has been created for everyone in this country who interacts with, owns or rides horses at any level and for any purpose.

“I’m delighted to see the release of this charter – it’s such a positive move for our industry and unites us under one common aim,” said dressage superstar Carl Hester. “I always treat my horses as horses first and athletes second to support their mental and physical wellbeing, which means they can perform at their happy best on the world stage. I’d love to see everyone join together in showing support for the charter and turning the words into action, for the good of all horses throughout the country.”

The charter is based on the internationally recognised “three Fs”: freedom, friends and forage and the five domains welfare model, which states that nutrition, physical environment, health, behavioural interactions and mental state are the crucial factors for an animal’s positive experience (Vet clinic, p24).

The BEF’s board and equine wellbeing and ethics advisory group has also been working on “extensive revisions” to the BEF rulebook and the policy that underpins the charter. The group members studied the EEWC report and incorporated recommendations from it into the rulebook, which will be released next year.

The Charter for the Horse is available at britishequestrian.org.uk, as a pledge version, signed by representatives of all member bodies, and as a version for all members of the equestrian community to download and sign to mark their own commitment, or “display on tack room walls, noticeboards and social media to proudly show their support to providing our equines with a lifetime of care, consideration and wellbeing”.

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(Image credit: Getty Images/Mint Images RF)

‘Everyone has the right to shine’ – and how this could benefit the horse world

Equestrian world commits to maintaining a good life for horses in sport

(Image credit: Getty Images/Mint Images RF)

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

‘Everyone has the right to shine’ – and how this could benefit the horse world

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 17:58:15 +0000

Everyone has the right to shine – and as an industry it is our duty to provide the opportunity to do so, which could benefit all of us.

This was the message at a session on accessibility, at the National Equine Forum on 7 March. Speakers considered different pathways to ensure everyone is welcome in equestrianism.

First to present was Jane Cooper, managing director of Access & Inclusion UK, whose daughter Megan was born with a rare chromosomal condition.

“That was a real life-changing moment,” she said. “I realised then the extra challenges people face, which I wasn’t aware of. That’s why I do what I do.

“Disabled people want the same things others do from spending time with horses; the emotional and therapeutic benefits, the bond and the physical benefits. There has been a shift in thinking; it used to be that the issue was the individual, now the issue is actually the inaccessible world. If you make changes, you can improve accessibility, so every organisation can make a difference.”

Ms Cooper advised looking at barriers to accessibility and then considering how to take them down, for example having written information for people with hearing impairment and audio equivalents for those with visual impairment.

“You can do things that mean everyone who wants to can have this experience,” she said.

British Equestrian (BEF) head of participation and development Mandana Mehran Pour spoke about the BEF’s #HorsesForAll project, which has included research on barriers to participation and the development of an equality, diversity and inclusion action plan.

“The biggest barrier could be your biggest opportunity, and I think that’s important,” she said. “Everyone has the right to shine, and as an industry we have a duty to provide that opportunity. If you believe everyone should have that chance, we all have a role to play in creating a more welcoming environment.”

Ms Mehran Pour said one key point from the BEF’s work is that representation and visual diversity matter to the research participants: “They wanted to see people who looked like them, so we really need role models”.

“Diversity isn’t just the colour of your skin,” she said. “We need to ask questions and better understand the people we communicate with, putting inclusion at the heart of all we do.”

Rebecca Cogswell, director of marketing, communications and fundraising at the British Horse Society (BHS), asked guests why it matters that everyone is welcome.

“Because many times, that unique bond has made a massive difference to people’s lives,” she said. “The bond between people and horses is like no other.”

Ms Cogswell said understanding current and potential audiences is key. She cited BHS research that found that equestrianism is perceived as elitist, and that many saw it as a community to which they could not belong.

“But love for horses unites us all,” she said. “There are strong positives on which we can focus. So how to make the benefits more available to all? We need clear strategies for inclusion. It matters because of the power of the horse-human bond. That’s why it’s so important horses in society continues, we must keep Britain riding and listen to our audience to ensure everyone is welcome to experience it.”

‘Spine-tinglingly good’: ParisOlympicsto be a ‘really special moment’ for horse sport

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 11 Mar 2024 17:23:36 +0000

Preparations are “on track” for this summer’s Olympics and Paralympics – and Britain has the horses and people to make them successful Games.

That was the message from British Equestrian (BEF) at the National Equine Forum on Thursday (7 March), at which chief executive Jim Eyre and performance director Helen Nicholls updated guests on Britain’s preparation for Paris.

Ms Nicholls said she had been on a recent visit to the Palace of Versailles, where the equestrian events will be held.

“They’re doing a really good job; it’s all on track,” she said. “It’s pretty well on its way, and the seats are even starting to go in. It will look absolutely amazing.”

Ms Nicholls said the warm-up arenas are also going in.

“It’s really starting to come together,” she said. “This is going to be a really special moment for equestrianism. Even with no one there, it looked spine-tinglingly good.”

Ms Nicholls cited the golden post boxes, installed in all gold medallists’ home towns after the London Games 12 years ago, as something that “stands out for me, on what the Games are all about”.

“People who had never done any sport in their lives were campaigning for these golden post boxes; this really matters,” she said. “It’s the moment sport is on all the front pages. And it’s so tough for the athletes, who are trying to do the hardest thing in the world; to be successful on one given day, every four years.

“I was at British Sailing and what we always said is ‘You’ve got to keep your head out of the boat’; there’s no point going fast if it’s in the wrong direction.”

Mr Eyre said that the BEF also has to have its sights firmly set on the 2028 and 2032 Games, adding that when it comes to sports’ inclusion in the Olympics, the International Olympic Committee puts huge store by the number of spectators and amount of engagement each has.

“So it’s crucial everyone in our demographic turns on and tunes in,” he said. “We’ve got really good riders, great horses and passionate owners.”

British Equestrian opens recruitment process for ‘once in a lifetime opportunity’

Becky Murray — Wed, 20 Dec 2023 15:04:22 +0000

British Equestrian (BEF) is offering a “once in a lifetime opportunity” position as it recruits for a new independent chair following the announcement that Malcolm Wharton is to step down.

“After four years at the helm, our chairman Malcolm Wharton CBE, has taken the difficult decision not to stand for a second term to give him more time to enjoy other pursuits,” read a BEF statement today (20 December).

A BEF spokesman said Malcolm has had a “major impact” on the federation – its headquarters and all members – “steering us through difficult times including Covid, and he has been an excellent support to the team”.

“With the organisation in good health under a strong board and a group of focused staff, Malcolm feels he can step down with confidence but will remain in position until a suitable replacement is appointed,” he said.

A recruitment process, conducted with advisers Perrett Laver, has opened to find the next independent chair of the BEF board.

“The appointment comes at a critical and exciting time for the equestrian sports and activities we represent,” said the spokesman.

“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for an individual with the vision, purpose and commitment to drive the long-term sustainability of equestrianism in the UK.”

The spokesman added that the new chair will be in a “unique position” to build links and relationships across the British and international equine and broader sports sector, supporting the common interests of BEF member bodies, and “continuing to develop our reputation as a leading nation for equine sports” while also encouraging growth in equestrianism across the UK.

The immediate priority for the successful candidate will be helping to support teams at Paris 2024, deputising for outgoing chair Malcolm when necessary and “ensuring a smooth transition”.

“Looking further ahead, the chair will be integral in helping maintain strong relationships with a varied stakeholder group ensuring that British equestrian sports remain well positioned for the LA Olympic and Paralympic cycle and beyond,” said the spokesman.

“In addition, the chair will be fundamental in driving partnership with our diverse membership bodies to achieve our common goals. As the equestrian landscape continues to evolve, we must continue to safeguard the interests of both human and horse, while also driving forward with our diversity and inclusion agenda, working with our members to help engage a wider audience.

“It is crucial to us that our new chair is an inclusive leader who shares our commitment to enable us to deliver the ambitions set out in our new diversity and inclusion strategy.”

To find out more about the role and to apply visit https://www.britishequestrian.org.uk/about-us/vacancies. Applications close at midnight on 14 January.

‘Horses for all’: new strategy aims to encourage more people to engage with equines

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 18:07:54 +0000

The new British Equestrian (BEF) “Horses for all” strategy is “crucial to our future relevance”, its creators believe, and to ensuring the industry remains relevant.

The BEF and its 20 member bodies and partners have signed a pledge that states: “Our collective aim is to encourage more people to engage with horses – as a hobby, a sport, a career, a fan or simply wanting to spend time with and around horses. This strategy unites us in our desire, and outlines our inspirations to effect generational, lasting change.”

The diversity and inclusion strategy is the “culmination of an extensive research, listening and learning process, [which] sets the agenda for our long-term commitment to lead change in our industry and foster a culture and environment of everyday inclusion and equity”.

H&H has reported on the BEF’s project to address the barriers to participation, focusing on ethnic minorities and those from a low socio-economic background, the results of research in this area, and the plan to create the strategy that has now been published.

The aim is for the document to be a framework for action plans, which will deliver “meaningful, generational results”, ensuring that equestrianism is reflective of society, relevant in the 21st century, a “safe, respectful and inclusive community with a culture that values and welcomes everyone”, and accessible to people from any background.

Its key strategies cover leadership and governance, data and diversity indicators, the workforce, collaborative working, education and accountability.

BEF CEO Jim Eyre said: “This strategy is fundamental for British Equestrian and our member bodies but even more so for the wider equestrian community; it’s crucial for our future relevance. We recognise our need to do better and this document gives a blueprint to facilitate the positive change needed. It’s our collective mission to encourage more people to engage with horses in a forum free from discrimination where equity is paramount, and we want to underpin our commitment to achieving this with our strategy.”

The BEF has started work on a diversity and inclusion action plan to action the strategy’s objective, and will work with member bodies on their plans.

BEF head of participation Mandana Mehran Pour said: “The genuine enthusiasm and ambition throughout this project has been inspiring and I’m proud of where we’ve got to but now is the time to take responsibility and action to drive the vision forwards. We’ve acknowledged our previous shortcomings but now must seize the opportunities outlined in the strategy to initiate the actions and changes required.

“The BEF team is looking forward to formulating and delivering an action plan, and supporting our member bodies to do the same, which puts us on a path to the vibrant future we collaboratively want to achieve.”

Why riders with concussion must stop trying to ‘beat the doctor’

Lucy Elder — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 17:23:47 +0000

We are all responsible when it comes to recognising and managing concussion, was the message from a recent conference on the condition.

The Injured Jockeys Fund (IJF) and British Equestrian (BEF) jointly hosted the inaugural cross-industry concussion symposium at Cheltenham racecourse (27 October). The key point made was the need for a collaborative commitment to concussion education, across the equestrian and racing worlds.

“Racing is fortunate in that we have over 20 years of awareness as to the implications of concussion and we are very keen to share those learnings and best practice with other equestrian disciplines,” said IJF chief executive Lisa Hancock.

“What was so encouraging today is that while we all know the logistical challenges this creates, everyone seems to want to work together using education and communication to improve things for the 1.8m people that ride, regardless of skill, age or discipline.”

IJF chairman William Norris KC added that the charity is “very well placed” to help others in equestrian sport develop and follow good practice.

“Everyone needs to understand and follow good practice, partly because it’s the right thing to do and partly because that is the way in which they can discharge their legal duty of care,” he said. “It won’t be an overnight fix; it is a question of developing ways of educating and sharing our experiences across equestrian sport generally.”

Racing has specific guidelines surrounding identifying concussions in riders, baseline testing and recovery – but these only apply to jockeys. The BEF introduced general concussion guidance for all equestrians this year (2 March).

British Horseracing Authority (BHA) chief medical adviser Dr Jerry Hill stressed the importance of promoting “collective responsibility”.

“You can’t have medical staff being the only people concerned,” said Dr Hill. “You need the support of other colleagues across the equestrian spectrum, particularly decision-makers and funders, as some of the changes we need are structural. If you are the doctor, or first-aider, you need the support of the organisation behind you.”

Anna Louise-Mackinnon, lead medical advisor at the IJF and the BEF’s chief medical officer, added: “One of the key issues is that concussion is largely invisible, and it is often not treated in the same way as a broken limb. And yet correct diagnosis and recovery are vital to the rider being able to return to safely continue participating in their sport in whatever they do and at whatever level.”

A change of attitude from riders trying to “beat the doctor” by attempting to “cover it up”, to understanding how times have changed and using help on hand, particularly at the IJF’s centres, was also raised.

One cost-effective suggestion was to have cross-discipline social media campaigns.

Racing industry concussion practitioner Rosy Hyman said: “We know that if you return too quickly, you are at a much higher risk of another injury. So, the key focus must be what we call the four Rs – recognise (the signs and symptoms); remove (the injured person from all horse-related activities); recover (until all symptoms have been resolved); return (to ridden activity through a gradual, stepwise process).”

Concussion: ‘ongoing collaboration needed’

British Equestrian Trade Association chief medical officer Dr Diane Fisher told H&H that as a major trauma consultant, she welcomes the new collaborative attitude within the industry.

“It’s been a very long time coming in equestrian sport,” she said. “Traumatic brain injuries are at best temporary in the form of concussion and at worst life-ending or life-changing. Shared learning is vital to ensure the best advice, guidance and care can be given consistently across disciplines.

“I can tell you that there is nothing more soul-destroying than answering the, ‘what if’ questions from patients and their families when preventable injuries occur or are more serious than they may have been if readily available safety equipment had been used or correct assessment treatment and guidance had been followed, or both.”

She added: “It is not however enough to publish a guideline and hope it changes behaviour and attitude to injury. It is an important first step.

“There is a professional and personal accountability to actually deliver. Embedding the advice will need ongoing collaboration, consistent messaging and training across the board.”

What do you think? Send your thoughts to hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and country, and for the chance for your letter to appear in the magazine

Real progress being made towards increasing equestrianism’s diversity

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 16:02:59 +0000

Real progress is being made to improve the industry’s diversity, as a long-term change that cannot happen overnight.

As British Equestrian (BEF) announced “six months of change, achievement and progress” in its #Horses4All research project on underrepresented communities’ engagement with equestrianism, campaigners for change have told H&H of the progress being made at all levels.

H&H reported last spring on the results of a survey commissioned by the BEF to “discover the barriers to participation in equestrian sport and activity from the perspective of ethnically diverse communities and or those from a low socio-economic background”.

Six months on, the BEF released an update stating that it has made progress with commitments it made in response to the report.

The main action was to create an equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) strategy; an outline of this is under review and it is to be published this year, to act as a blueprint for BEF member bodies or a basis for their own EDI strategies.

The BEF has been working on a diversity and inclusion action plan, which it expects to implement early next year, and is revising its member rulebook to “incorporate elements of #HorsesForAll’s recommendations around conduct and behaviours, alongside other integrity matters”.

“The strategy will help to shape culture and values, and we’re backing that up with an education programme,” a BEF spokesman said, adding that this 18-month programme will be delivered across the BEF and member bodies. Other action includes over £100,000 distributed in financial support, and working with faith and youth groups to promote equestrianism in underrepresented communities.

“The progress by the teams in a relatively short space of time is certainly testament to our collective commitment to tackling inequalities in our industry,” said BEF CEO Jim Eyre.

“While there have been some tangible short-term outcomes, what’s most rewarding is the amount of foundation work completed or commenced, which will ensure the required long-term change. We are under no illusions as to how long this will take, but the progress in six months is hugely encouraging and has set us up well to ensure horses really are for all.”

Ashleigh Wicheard, who was shortlisted in the inspiration of the year and moment of the year categories in the 2022 H&H Awards, having led her fellow jockeys in taking the knee before she won the Magnolia Cup charity race at Goodwood, told H&H that at the awards ceremony, she became aware of sponsor Tommy Hilfiger’s equestrian range. She contacted the brand, and was invited to the Netherlands to model.

“I explained to them that the images they had of people of colour with horses were very casual and riding school,” she said. “What I loved about them was that when I said you don’t often see people of colour in competition wear, they took shots of me like that.”

Ashleigh said such imagery is important, as if young people do not see other people of colour competing, as well as riding, they may not realise this is something they can aspire to.

She has also completed a placement at Racing TV through the Racing Media Academy, and has presented at Goodwood, although she said she would rather have the chance to present behind-the-scenes documentaries on the equestrian world, to appeal to the public as well as insiders.

“Someone at Blenheim asked me about box-ticking, and that people might feel they’re only being asked to do things as they’re people of colour,” she said. “But I thought if you want to make a difference for future generations, it’s all about ticking boxes. I want to represent in as many ways as possible, so young people can have the images and representation, and if ticking boxes is what we need to do, that’s the gateway. You could see it as a negative but I choose to see it as positive. If me doing something ticks someone’s box and a young person can feel, ‘That could be me’, that’s what needs to happen.”

Ashleigh said change will not happen overnight, but things are moving in the right direction.

“Five people will become 10, and then 20,” she said. “But if numbers go up slowly, it’s more likely to be sustainable. I take time off work to do things and fund them myself but that’s my purpose and I’m happy to do it as it’s making a difference. Slow and steady wins the race.”

Sandra Murphy, who set up the group BERF, the British Ethnic Riders Foundation, told H&H she is in the process of registering the group as a community interest company, to allow fundraising for its plans to help riders from diverse backgrounds progress in the industry. The group’s plans for a residential training centre for these riders are still in progress, and Sandra has been working with the BEF and the Pony Club on EDI.

“Everything is ramping up and it’s all good,” she said. “Things are starting to happen and we’re getting fantastic feedback from different sectors.”

Sandra said BERF hosted a training weekend this summer; sisters Shanice and Sheneka Reid from Ebony Horse Club in Brixton spent time with her, riding her stallion Monet for training with a British Eventing accredited coach, and competing at a showjumping competition where both riders were placed.

Sandra has long said that progression is key; riders who may have learned at urban riding schools then need the opportunity to progress to the next stage to allow them to move up further.

“The girls rode Monet beautifully and it was so good,” she said. “It showed what they could do with a level playing field; a competition horse and good training and access to competition was all it took. Sheneka burst into tears when she found out she’d won; we all cried like babies.”

Sandra said the training and the centre are key to giving riders the opportunities they need.

“As a Black person, coming into the industry can be daunting as there’s no one who looks like you,” she said. “We’re going to bring this forward, we’re going to help.”

‘Even in the darkest times, there is hope’: top riders carry Baton of Hope to support suicide prevention

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 13:35:54 +0000

Top British riders and representatives of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment have thrown their weight behind the “biggest suicide awareness and prevention initiative the UK has ever seen”.

Oliver Townend, Mollie Summerland and Lewis Carrier, along with British Equestrian (BEF) eventing performance manager Dickie Waygood, joined mounted soldiers to carry the Baton of Hope on its last leg.

The unique baton has travelled the UK since 25 June as a “unifying symbol” aimed at reducing any stigma related to mental health issues, encourage conversation and “help people get better at asking questions”. Yesterday (6 July), it arrived in London, and the riders formed a guard of honour along Constitution Hill, The Mall and Horse Guards Parade.

Riders Minds partnered with the Baton of Hope; the equestrian mental health charity’s founder Victoria Wright said it was something “we knew we had to get involved with”.

Flanked by members of the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment, riders from the British Equestrian team (L-R Ricahrd Waygood, Oliver Townend, Lewis Carrier and Mollie Summerland) pass the Baton of Hope to George Bartlett at Horseguards Parade having ridden through Central London to raisie awareness of mental health issues - London, United Kingdom - 06 July 2023 (Image credit: JON STROUD)

“The mission of the baton is to bring about change in how we approach the subject of suicide, how we talk about it and how we support those affected by it,” she said.

“It is an honour to have a mounted section of the tour, in which the baton was carried on horseback from Hyde Park into Horse Guards Parade thanks to help of Richard Waygood. This is an important moment for the equestrian industry and we’re proud that Riders Minds and British Equestrian are able to work together to deliver a very important message.”

The baton, and the message it represents, was delivered to the Houses of Parliament that evening.

New concussion evidence marks ‘momentous milestone’ in rider safety

Becky Murray — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 16:44:52 +0000

The FEI will carry out a “comprehensive review” of its concussion policies and guidelines as new evidence is published.

This month the Concussion in Sport Group published its “consensus statement on concussion” in the British Journal of Sports Medicine. The work, which was presented at the sixth International Consensus Conference Concussion in Sport in October 2022, is made up of 10 systematic reviews and methodology, carried out by more than 100 researchers and clinicians, with the aim of optimising the care of athletes at all levels of participation who have, or who are at risk of, concussion.

The FEI said in light of the new recommendations, which it supports, it will conduct a “comprehensive review” of existing policies, implement necessary changes to align with the latest scientific consensus, and ensure dissemination of this information to stakeholders.

An FEI spokesman told H&H the publication of the statement signifies a “momentous milestone in commitment to athlete safety”.

“This collaborative endeavour, bringing together sports organisations and healthcare practitioners, ensures that the policies shaping our sports are firmly grounded in robust scientific evidence,” the spokesman said.

“In our pursuit of a common objective – to create a safe and enjoyable sporting environment for all – and as both fields progress, our safety measures must evolve in tandem to keep pace with these advancements, so that our athletes can grow and thrive with confidence.”

British Equestrian (BEF) published new concussion guidelines for riders in March (news, 2 March). BEF chief medical officer Anna-Louise Mackinnon told H&H the organisation welcomes the new consensus statement.

“We have been working on our recently published advice and protocols with this in mind. We will review the publications and provide updates if required,” she said.

‘Exciting opportunity’ for real change in our industry

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 17:25:58 +0000

A REPORT on under-represented communities within equestrianism is an “exciting” opportunity to make real, lasting change in the industry, it is hoped.

British Equestrian (BEF) commissioned major research last year, aiming to “discover the barriers to participation in equestrian sport and activity from the perspective of ethnically diverse communities and or those from a low socio-economic background”.

AKD Solutions, which carried out the research, made recommendations on how the industry should act, and as a result, the BEF has set out its short-, medium- and long-term commitments.

“Everyone wants this to happen,” BEF head of participation Mandana Mehran Pour told H&H. “The interest is there and that’s the most important part; we all want to do this and we’re going to find out how.”

AKD was asked to speak to 800 people, Black, Asian and from other ethnicities, and those from “under-served” communities, to learn more about perceptions, engagement and interest in equestrianism, and understand the barriers to it. It included a nationwide survey, interviews, forums and equestrian experience days.

Headline results included that 46% of respondents would take part in, or consider taking part in, equestrian activity. Some participants felt the industry could learn from the increasing inclusivity of racing, and from the impact of money invested in young Black and Asian talent.

Factors that would increase participation were found to be seeing more participants like themselves, more available information about equestrian activities, taster sessions and promotional material featuring “people like me”. More affordable equestrian activities was also a factor. Barriers were named as lack of awareness of such activity and affordability.

One mixed-heritage participant said that with her heritage and “class connotations that are inextricably linked with the sport”, she did not believe she could belong. A Black respondent said not seeing top riders who “look like me” was a deterrent, and a mixed-heritage respondent had ridden once, as the only non-white person there, and “did not feel welcomed”.

“She stands out because she isn’t white,” one Asian equestrian wrote. “We notice the additional criticism we face because we’re not white; we have to work harder, be better.” Incidents of bullying and racialised experiences emerged.

“People may feel racism or bullying every day, and everywhere,” Ms Mehran Pour said. “We know we have to support our industry to be a bit more welcoming and more inclusive to everyone, regardless of background or the colour of their face.”

AKD’s recommendations include a universal commitment to anti-discriminatory equestrian environments, building strong partnerships with alternative structures and diverse spaces, planning generationally and leading from the front on diversity.

“This report presents a huge opportunity to make equestrianism inclusive and more diverse,” the report states in AKD’s reflections. “Through collaborative, targeted and adequately resourced opportunities in less affluent and ethnically diverse communities, the equestrian industry can benefit from wider engagement, more talent and investment.”

The BEF said the report was “a hugely beneficial base” to understand the current situation, and give clear guidance on progressing its equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) strategy.

“It is imperative we see this as a catalyst for driving positive change that will help shape the future of equestrianism,” it states in its response. “We acknowledge that creating meaningful and lasting change will take time but collectively we are committed. This is just the beginning of our journey towards building a more inclusive equestrian community that is reflective of Great Britain.”

The BEF’s commitments are based on the recommendations, and Ms Mehran Pour said: “This is a generational movement.

“In the next 15 years, we will see people from different backgrounds being comfortable, and it will be quite visual. One thing brought up in the report was people not being welcome at riding schools or livery yards, but people from white British backgrounds had the same issues. My aim in 10 years’ time is to have more welcoming environments, whoever you are. That’s my vision.”

Ms Mehran Pour said everyone in the industry can contribute by being more welcoming, but that in the main, the issues raised are “cultural, not equestrian”.

“We’re not alone in this,” she said. “If anyone has had issues, we’re here to listen as unless we know where the problems are, we can’t fix them. And if we do our bit in our sport, we’re doing it for all society. The hope is creating more welcoming, understanding people for society, not just the riding population.”

Another key finding is that all those who had not ridden before and did so for this report “absolutely loved it”.

“It’s the magic of horses,” Ms Mehran Pour said. “People want to be involved but think they can’t for financial reasons or because they don’t see people like them but the latent demand is absolutely essential.”

She added: “This is really exciting and I’m proud of everyone in the federation and member bodies. People want to make the change and that’s the most important thing. If you want to do something, you’ll find a way to do it.”

British Showjumping (BS) CEO Iain Graham told H&H the member bodies will work with the BEF to deliver on all the commitments.

“We’ve all been doing our bit to try to make sure as organisations we’re welcoming to everyone but it’s really useful to have independent recommendations,” he said, adding that BS appointed a director for EDI two years ago, and has plans in this area.

“One of the benefits of our sport is that men and women compete equally so there’s no gender separation,” he said. “But everyone is equal in the horse’s eyes; the horse doesn’t care what your background is.”

British Dressage (BD) CEO Jason Brautigam told H&H BD is committed to ensuring the sport is inclusive and accessible to all.

“We have a lot to celebrate in this regard – men and women compete on an equal basis, with riders from eight to 80 taking part in dressage, while we also have a successful record in disability sport, and strong representation from the LGBTQ+ community,” he said. “However, we acknowledge that equestrianism is not as ethnically diverse as we would want it to be, while there are communities that are currently under-represented and under-served, particularly in less affluent urban areas. There are many socio-economic factors that contribute to this, but we want to break down any barriers that exist to participation and ensure that our sport is welcoming to everyone.

“This report identifies some of the areas where we need to focus our efforts, as well as recognising the strong foundations we can build on. I was personally very heartened by the findings, as it reveals that there is a latent demand to take part in equestrian sport and highlights where there are opportunities to promote dressage to a wider audience. We will work collectively with other member bodies across the federation to address these inequalities and collaborate with groups that have already established excellent initiatives in this area.

“We have set aside designated funds from our reserves specifically for outreach projects to bridge the gaps that currently exist, and the feedback in this report will help us to deliver meaningful, tangible, and long-lasting change.”

British Eventing (BE) CEO Helen West added that BE is committing to “leading from the front and encouraging a culture that actively encourages diversity and inclusivity”.

“BE is proactively developing alignments that can assist us reach these objectives,” she said. “We recently delivered a The Howden Way Academy [BE’s training framework] session to a group of diverse riders from Cool Ridings. It was such an inspiring day, which was a success on so many levels.

“Our focus is unwavering on ensuring that we create a welcoming and nurturing environment for riders from underrepresented groups that have an interest in eventing. We applaud the undertaking of the report, its findings and recommendations.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Simba Chinyemba of SLC Veterinary Physiotherapy had some concerns about how he would be accepted in a white-dominated industry. Having ridden as a child and a teenager, he considered veterinary medicine as a career but settled on physiotherapy as a middle ground.

“I haven’t really had any bad experience in terms of racism or barriers to opportunities but it crossed my mind a bit,” he said. “A bit of concern about how seriously I’d be taken, but I think it does work to my benefit as people remember me.”

Mr Chinyemba said he hopes he might be able to inspire others into the industry, and recently spoke at an equine careers event at Bishop Burton College.

Pippa Winkworth, co-chair of the National Association of Veterinary Physiotherapy (NAVP), told H&H vet physios have mainly been white females, and the NAVP is keen to attract applicants from all backgrounds.

“Existing NAVP members from ethnic minority groups, who initially felt concerned about the possibility of issues arising about gender or ethnicity, have been pleasantly surprised by how welcoming and open the association, wider industry and the public have been,” she said.

“Anyone is welcome if they are passionate about animal care, veterinary physiotherapy and can meet the requirements of membership. With the recent change of management at NAVP, we are evaluating our equal opportunities and diversity policy, as well as looking at ways we can reach out ethnic minority groups.

“NAVP is committed to and proactive in achieving excellence in equality of opportunity of our members, including all under-represented groups. We want to promote an inclusive culture and we value diversity. One of our core values is freedom from discrimination. All membership will be determined by personal merit and by performance. No student, member of the association, executive team or applicant for admission as a member will be treated less favourably than another because of their belonging to a protected group.”

Groundbreaking concussion and return to riding guidelines released

Lucy Elder — Thu, 02 Mar 2023 12:52:36 +0000

The first unified concussion guidelines designed specifically for riders across all equestrian disciplines are unveiled by British Equestrian (BEF) today (Thursday, 2 March).

The six-page guidelines feature easy-to-follow information about concussion in horse riders, and a “return to riding” pathway. The idea is that these give clear, up-to-date guidance, based on the latest understandings of concussion in sport, in a way that makes sense for riders and those around them, such as coaches or parents.

The launch is the first step in an awareness-raising campaign that will run throughout 2023.

BEF chief medical officer Anna-Louise Mackinnon told H&H it is “hugely important” the guidelines are aligned across the disciplines, to prevent confusion.

Dr Mackinnon added that those involved in the project have “dug deep” into the latest research and what is happening in other sports and countries to develop the guidelines.

Learnings shared at the sixth International Consensus Conference on Concussion in Sport, held in Amsterdam in 2022, played a key role in this.

“We’ve even tried to align it to the advice given out in horse racing,” she said. “Some of the educational projects we are going to be doing and developing over the next few months are completely aligned with horseracing and using much of the same material.

“From the point of view of rehabilitation and return to ride, it’s massively important [that advice is aligned across equestrian sport]. Otherwise we are just going to have riders doing all sorts of different things and everyone getting a bit confused, so it needs to be the same – and also aligned with all other sports.

“Not only have we looked at what we’ve been doing within equestrian sport, but we’ve looked at other sport – grassroots sport and the grassroots advice that will be coming out from the Government.”

The guidelines were produced in response to the Government’s concussion action plan (news, 13 January 2022). This, in turn, followed a Government inquiry that called for UK-wide protocols on dealing with head injuries and improvement in how sporting injuries are reported (news, 12 August 2022).

The overarching aim is to address concussion in sport to help reduce risks and potential long-term effects associated with head injuries.

The new BEF guidelines are aimed at participants at all levels of equestrian sport and provide detailed information on managing concussion from the time of injury to a safe return to riding.

The return to ride pathway gives specific examples of equestrian-related situations and at what stage in a person’s recovery they might be ready to return to these. For example, walking a course, grooming and yard chores. The guidelines do not replace medical advice.

BEF chief executive Jim Eyre said the member bodies have been “really engaged and are committed to the responsible management of concussions”.

“Anyone in the equestrian industry is welcome to download the guidance from our website and adopt it as their own, so we all take responsibility for our participants and their long-term wellbeing,” he added.

Ashleigh Wallace, BEF athlete health lead for the World Class Programme, is the driving force behind the project.

“Developing concussion protocols for our World Class Programme riders has

been a priority of mine, but the opportunity to use expertise, insight and knowledge – all backed up with science – to produce relevant guidance that applies to everyone is hugely gratifying,” she said.

The BEF member bodies have welcomed the news.

British Dressage sport operations manager Lou Jones told H&H: “Fortunately, serious accidents involving head injuries are comparatively rare in dressage, but we fully support this initiative and will be consulting with our organisers and officials to ensure that the guidance is followed, with appropriate measures put in place to deal with such eventualities when they do occur.”

British Eventing (BE) chief executive Helen West added that BE takes concussion “extremely seriously and fully supports the BEF” in these guidelines.

“Concussion is something we must take seriously,” she told H&H, adding that BE operates a strict medical suspension policy regarding head injuries and concussion.

“When it comes to our horses we don’t think twice about getting the right treatment and giving them time. But when it comes to ourselves we sometimes overlook this and the campaign to raise awareness of the signs and treatment of concussion can only be a positive step in the right direction.”

British Showjumping (BS) chief executive Iain Graham told H&H that BS has been involved throughout the process and is “fully supportive of the guidelines and the need to raise awareness”.

He added that it’s not just about the time people are in the competition arena, but spreading awareness of the signs, symptoms and what to do, for when people are training or riding at home.Olympic eventing team gold medallist and Badminton winner Laura Collett said this campaign is “really welcome”.

“Concussion is something we just don’t take seriously enough in equine sport. We wouldn’t think twice if it was a welfare issue with our horses, so why should we risk our own health and wellbeing?” she said. “Having experienced major brain trauma and concussion first-hand, I’d urge everyone to take the time and read the guidance, educate themselves and use the resources provided. We all have a part to play, however you enjoy horses.”

Read the BEF’s new unified concussion and return to riding guidelines [PDF]

Equestrians must act as ‘guardians of the landscape’ to reduce environmental impact

Becky Murray — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 17:13:49 +0000

The equestrian industry must make better decisions to reduce its environmental impact – and act as “guardians of the landscape”.

Water company United Utilities is collaborating with horse owners to help improve their land management, with the view of helping their equines – and protecting water sources.

United Utilities catchment manager Kate Snow told H&H equestrians can play their part in helping the environment by considering things such as their grazing practices, the location of their muck heaps, and the use of chemicals and fertilisers. The company is hosting three free events (28 January, 7 and 28 February) at Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre in Cheshire, where owners can hear from land management experts and equine professionals on the topic.

“We want to encourage owners to act responsibly,” said Dr Snow. “Looking at a piece of land, some people might just think of it as somewhere to turn their horse out, rather than considering the environment. And many people don’t know that what they’re doing potentially could be having an impact.

“No one is saying anyone is doing anything [negative] on purpose, but it’s raising awareness of what you can do. For example, simply moving your muck to a different part of the field can make a considerable difference, or making sure the person you use to take the muck away is acting responsibly and spreading it as part of a nutrient management plan, and not just dumping it.”

British Equestrian (BEF) has launched a new five-month environmental sustainability project with Horse Sport Ireland (HSI), in collaboration with sustainability agency White Griffin. The European Equestrian Federation will also be a project stakeholder.

White Griffin will conduct interviews with BEF and HSI member bodies and the wider equine community, about how sustainability impacts them, what work is being carried out, concerns, and the way forward, with the aim of reaching “as many people involved in the industry as possible.”

White Griffin project lead Ruth Dancer told H&H the work will lead to recommendations and a “strategic roadmap”, to support the federations with the risks that climate change will present in the coming years, and their “ongoing responsible stewardship of the land”.

“The climate crisis impacts everything that this sector does and in turn, the sector impacts upon it. Through this work we hope to demonstrate ways the industry can positively impact the environment while crucially safeguarding the future of equestrianism and equestrian sports,” she said.

BEF chief executive Jim Eyre added that the industry has a “collective responsibility” for the environment, to ensure a sustainable future.

“As a sector so integrated and reliant on nature and the countryside, we must make better informed decisions to reduce our environmental impact wherever we can and act as guardians of the landscape,” he said.

Owners put their horses first as economic situation bites

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 26 Dec 2022 20:51:11 +0000

Equine and human wellbeing is being put under pressure by the financial situation – but owners are putting their horses first.

These are findings from nationwide surveys conducted by SEIB Insurance Brokers to determine how the cost-of-living crisis is affecting livery yard owners and clients. More than 1,400 people responded to the questionnaires, which asked how costs are increasing and the impact this is having.

“The surveys found the significant increase in costs is biting but at present people are ultimately putting their horses first while making personal sacrifices,” an SEIB spokesman said. “Many yard owners are anxious about having to increase their livery fees on the back of surging fuel, maintenance and staffing costs as they know their already cash-stretched clients cannot afford to pay more.”

The survey found that so far, just under 40% of respondents’ livery fees had increased recently, although charges had risen by £5 to £30 per month for 20%, and over £30 for the rest. Of the respondents, 44% said they have taken measures such as turning heating down at home and cutting back on socialising to pay the bills.

“Having established that many people are facing increased costs, are these sustainable long-term?” asked SEIB’s Georgina Dewar. “What impact will this have on mental health?”

Many respondents said they are competing less but some are decreasing the frequency of physio, saddle-fitting and farrier appointments.

British Equestrian CEO Jim Eyre said: “There’s little doubt all of us are feeling the impact of the cost-of-living crisis as we search for ways to save money. For horse owners, this comes with added concerns around equine welfare as owners have to make difficult decisions, often without all the detail to make informed decisions. We would encourage every owner to carefully consider the lasting impact of any decisions and to research fully ahead of making any changes.”

Of the 280 yard owners who responded to their survey, a fifth had not yet increased livery prices, although many planned to.

“The market won’t accept the type of price increases yards need to stay profitable,” one said.

“It’s such a worry for the whole industry as those on low to medium income will be priced out of the industry and it will become elitist.”

Many owners did not feel clients are aware of running costs, and the effects of wasting bedding or leaving lights on, and believe working together could help keep livery prices down.

“Inflation and the cost-of living crises are taking their toll on the work-life balance and the mental health of yard owners,” the SEIB spokesman said. “The survey found that half of yard owners have reduced their staff hours and taken on more tasks themselves to cope.”

Riders Minds mental health expert Sylvia Bruce said poor work-life balance can affect mental health, adding: “The cumulative effect of overworking, business stress and lack or loss of disposable income spirals and has a detrimental effect on lifestyle, life enjoyment and ability to socialise, leaving livery yard owners vulnerable to deteriorating mental health.”

SEIB CEO Suzy Middleton said having found out what the issues are, the company is keen to raise awareness and start the debate.

“Livery yards are such a big part of the equine industry, they make horse ownership accessible to so many people who otherwise wouldn’t be in a position to have a horse of their own,” she said. “At SEIB, we are determined to do our best to support increasing accessibility to equestrianism.

“Our team has close relationships with other equestrian businesses and we are working with them to see if we can offer our customers ways to benefit from savings on feed, bedding and supplements in the always costly winter.”

Action planned on supply, demand, costs and licensing issues faced by our riding schools

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 18:01:36 +0000

“A SUPPLY and demand predicament”, licensing and rising costs are among the issues faced by riding schools, as action is planned to protect their future.

British Equestrian (BEF) worked with the British Horse Society (BHS), the Association of British Riding Schools (ABRS), the Pony Club and the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) on “ground-breaking” research on the sector, and has now revealed its results.

A survey was sent to nearly 1,700 centres in March, and 311 responded.

“The standout message was they are in the midst of a supply and demand predicament, which is both a positive and negative,” a BEF spokesman said. “Interest in riding remains buoyant, but over two thirds of centres are struggling to keep up with enquiries and take on new clients, creating a barrier to increasing participation.

“Conversely, on average, centres are running at 75% capacity due to issues around workforce, paid and volunteer, suitable and affordable horsepower, and skyrocketing costs. Over 70% reported that these issues have been further exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic, compounded by an average of 62% reduction of income since the lockdowns of 2020 and 2021.”

Licensing is also having an impact; the “costs, complexity and time involved are considerable”, which is frustrating for some respondents.

“This research data will help us better understand the current challenges, which we can use to work towards a viable future for our riding centres, and I’d like to thank all those who took time to facilitate and complete the survey, which has given us incredible insight,” said BEF head of participation Mandana Mehran Pour.

“It’s been an incredibly challenging time for our riding centres, who have shown remarkable resilience, and there is a degree of optimism. This study has highlighted the diversity of riding centres across the UK landscape, and the struggles they face to adapt and grow to meet challenges.

“British Equestrian, along with member bodies, is determined to support these centres to help equestrianism remain popular and accessible for all. We now need to identify and execute plans to best support these centres and make sure they can convert interest into income through what will be another highly turbulent year as the cost-of-living challenges intensify existing issues.”

BEF, with the other organisations involved, has pulled six key findings, from which short-, medium- and long-term projects will be developed. These are: workforce, horsepower, licensing, capacity demands, growth and costs. Plans include addressing the staff shortage, investigating options for sourcing horses, looking at licensing requirements and funding opportunities and monitoring rising costs.

The BEF has already made progress, and is working with Sport England to deliver the £195,000 Together Fund, to which centres can apply for grants.

Andy Holden, who owns Longfield Equestrian Centre in Lancashire with his wife Christine Farnaby, and responded to the survey, told H&H staffing is an issue.

“Everyone I’ve spoken to seems to be struggling to get staff,” he said. “That’s a problem, but rising costs are a big problem too.

“Electricity, feed; we’ve been in business over 40 years and have never known costs rise so much in such a short time. It’s good there are people trying to do something; the BHS helped us through Covid, which was really appreciated, and anything that could help in any way now will also be much appreciated.”

BHS CEO James Hick told H&H the society had given over £1.2m to schools during Covid, and that its careers fund and rehoming project with the RSPCA should help address staffing and horse-sourcing issues.

“This survey confirms that we must all play our part to support the industry so it can thrive,” he said. “Without this support, it could impact equestrianism for future generations”

Equine flu vaccination deferrals advised as vaccine shortage affects UK first

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 07 Sep 2022 06:34:11 +0000

Changes to governing bodies’ vaccination requirements are among measures adopted as authorities attempt to mitigate the ongoing equine flu vaccine shortage.

H&H reported last month that there was the prospect of a shortage, owing to a “significant pan-European logistical problem” being experienced by manufacturer Boehringer Ingelheim.

The impact of this has hit the UK first, British Equestrian’s emergency response group (ERG) has confirmed, and some vet practices are already out of stock.

“Early indications from [Boehringer] are that the issues will continue until the end of October at the very earliest,” a BEF spokesman said.

“Working closely with [the British Equine Veterinary Association] BEVA, the BEF ERG can offer temporary guidelines to help minimise the impact of the shortage for a limited period while preserving the health of our national equine herd.”

BEVA’s advice is based on the risk bracket each horse falls into; fully vaccinated adults who mix rarely are at the lowest risk, those up to the age of four who mix frequently are most at risk.

It is recommended that owners of leisure horses in the lowest-risk categories whose annual boosters are due during the shortage should defer for up to three months, to a maximum of 15 months between doses. Any decision to defer should be in consultation with each horse’s vet.

“BEVA has established that there is evidence horses are still protected at 15 months, even if this situation is far from ideal, and the protection isn’t as great as it was at 12 months,” a BEF spokesman said. “Having had a good history of vaccination in the past is likely to help.”

Anyone who does defer vaccination should book a booster within nine months, so the horse has still had two jabs in two years. Passports of horses affected should be signed and dated by the vet to document the delay.

Owners who plan to affiliate to a governing body or travel to a venue with a 12-month vaccination requirement, compete in FEI events or run the horse under Rules are advised to keep to the 12-month requirement.

Further guidance from the FEI on international competition is expected this week, but a different approach has been agreed for competition horses. There is a higher level of immunity among such horses owing to vaccination rules, but they mix more frequently, and there is a need to align with the FEI and the racing industry’s rules.

The British Horse Society, British Riding Clubs, the Pony Club, the Riding for the Disabled Association, Association of British Riding Schools and the Showing Council will permit three-month deferrals followed by a booster within nine months.

Six-monthly vaccination was required by British Dressage, British Eventing, the British Horseball Association and British Carriagedriving, and strongly recommended by British Showjumping. These have been put on hold, and annual vaccination is still required.

British Equestrian Vaulting and Endurance GB (EGB) retain the 12-month requirement, but if shortages prevent vaccination, with prior approval, EGB will allow a three-month deferral.

Anyone who is not affiliated but whose horses frequently mix with others should consult their vet.

Celia Marr, chair of the BEF’s infectious diseases advisory group, said: “We find ourselves in a very difficult situation on how best to mitigate the risks posed by this vaccine shortage. However, the ERG is working collaboratively within BEF’s member bodies and with BEVA and [the British Horseracing Authority] BHA, and we hope we have established guidelines which allow vets to effectively manage supplies within their practices while preserving the established herd immunity amongst our vaccinated population.

“We know the devastating impact an equine flu epidemic can have and must continue to work together to prevent that. Moving the low and lowest risk and some medium-risk horses to a 15- and nine-month programme, while not perfect, is a good solution to ensure we have enough vaccine in the country to protect our most vulnerable horses, manage the equine influenza risk and prevent as many horses as possible from having to restart their vaccination course. We’re grateful to the member bodies for working with us to manage the situation.”

BEF CEO Jim Eyre added: “The ERG, our member bodies, BEVA and BHA have acted decisively in what is an ever-changing situation, which we’ll continue to monitor closely and manage. We want to reassure horse owners in the UK that deferring their booster for three months will give protection to healthy, adult horses with a good vaccination history and following with the next booster within nine months, so the horse effectively has ‘two in two’, is important.

“We’re grateful for everyone’s immediate support and actions in a bid to manage this crisis. The ERG will continue monitor the situation with member bodies and BEVA and, while the end of October has been indicated for supply issues to be resumed, we will make plans under the assumption that this could continue. We will continue to meet until normal vaccine supplies are resumed and six and/or 12-month boosters can be reinstated for all vaccinated horses.”

‘We’re trying to make sure everyone’s protected’: experts working on equine flu vaccination shortage

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 17:30:24 +0000

Owners have been urged not to panic, nor change their practices, as experts monitor the potential impact of a shortage of equine flu vaccinations.

The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA), British Equestrian (BEF) and the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) are working together on the issue. The organisations had been aware of “minor interruptions to the supply” of the vaccines this year, but a “significant, pan-European logistical problem being experienced by [manufacturer] Boehringer Ingelheim has raised the prospect of a further reduction in supplies in the coming months”.

David Rendle, chair of BEVA’s health and medicines committee, told H&H there are so many variables around supply, and what manufacturers can do – it takes about six months from starting the process to get vaccine to the vets – it is difficult to make solid predictions on when supplies will return to normal.

“But everyone is working on it,” he said. “There had been low-grade supply issues throughout this year but as a result of a recent issue, Boehringer Ingelheim hasn’t been able to supply any vaccines to the wholesalers since June or July. It was expected they’d come back in stock about now, which would have been fine, but now it’s clear they can’t rectify the issue and won’t be able to supply the market until the end of October.”

Mr Rendle said the key message is that owners should not panic, nor try to arrange vaccinations early.

“Please don’t think ‘I’d better get mine done now’,” he said. “Please be responsible and consider the bigger picture. Practices and wholesalers will still have stock but there will be less influenza vaccine available, and it’s about planning now and looking at maintaining protection for everyone.”

He added that older horses, who have good immunity built up from previous jabs, will be at less risk than young horses that have not had any vaccines, who need to be prioritised to ensure they get the primary courses.

“Vets will be risk-assessing,” Mr Rendle said.

“For example, although there is compelling scientific evidence for the increased protection that comes from six-monthly vaccination as required for some competition, it may be that if people aren’t mixing those horses and aren’t competing, they could postpone the six-monthly booster as their horses are at less risk than those who need to start their courses or have an annual booster”.

“This is clearly a very difficult situation as these vaccinations are so important in preventing disease outbreaks,but it’s about working together and being responsible to maximise the protection for everyone in difficult circumstances,” Mr Rendle said.

“I am sure horse owners will understand that vets are in a very difficult situation that is not of their making and will be supportive of the difficult decisions vets may have to make if there is further disruption of vaccine supply.”

Marc Laemmer, equine business head at Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health, said: “We are currently experiencing a European-wide supply issue relating to our equine influenza and influenza-tetanus vaccines. This has been caused by unexpected issues following the implementation of a technology upgrade and is not a product or quality issue. This means that some vet practices will have difficulty obtaining sufficient influenza vaccines and there may be a shortage in the UK market. We understand the importance of these vaccines to equine welfare, and we are continuing to work tirelessly to find a solution so that we can return to normal supply as soon as possible.”

BEF CEO Jim Eyre added: “A meeting of our equine infectious disease advisory group has been held and we will work with member bodies to monitor the situation carefully. If it becomes necessary, we will collectively work to devise practical solutions for dealing with any supply difficulties.”

Amanda Melvin, equine business manager at MSD Animal Health, said: “Based on prior demand, MSD’s equine vaccines Equilis Prequenza and Equilis Prequenza Te are in full supply. MSD has taken steps to protect as many horses as possible at this time. We will continue to supply existing customers with the available MSD stock on ‘allocation’ and, where possible, to allocate stock to additional customers. Allocations are being made to our veterinary customers based on their historical demand which we believe is the most efficient way to manage the available supplies.”

Rebecca Cabrejas, equine business unit manager at Zoetis, said: “Demand for our vaccines currently exceeds what we can supply. Whilst we have adequate stocks to fulfil current customers’ orders unfortunately, we are not in a position to be able to supply new customers at this time. We will continue to work with BEVA to limit the impact of the current shortages.”

James Given, director of equine health and welfare for the BHA, said the BHA is monitoring the situation and will issue updates “in due course”.

Two young showjumpers aspire to be first mixed-heritage British Olympic riders

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 16 Jun 2022 11:27:20 +0000

TWO young showjumpers have ambitions to be the first riders of colour to represent Britain at an Olympics – as British Equestrian (BEF) has pledged to improve diversity and inclusion in the industry.

The BEF and its 18 member bodies have signed the “unity pledge”, which commits to making equestrian “representative of the diverse communities around us”, to grow a welcoming community for all united by the love of horses, and to promote the physical and mental benefits of equestrianism.

BEF CEO Jim Eyre said: “Equestrianism and the passion for horses is by its nature hugely diverse and open to all, regardless of age, gender, religion, ability or background. However, we know ethnically diverse communities and people from lower socio-economic backgrounds are under-represented across equestrianism and may not feel it is for them.

“If we are to thrive as an industry and open up participation for everyone to experience the unique joy horses bring, we have to do more to embrace our differences and recognise what can be possible when equality, diversity and inclusion is woven into our culture.

“While this is a strategic imperative for the federation, it’s more about working to break down those barriers and creating a community where everyone truly feels they belong.”

H&H has reported that the BEF had initiated research into understanding barriers to participation, focusing on ethnically diverse communities and lower socio-economic backgrounds. Another project will focus on urban riding schools.

Two riders also hoping to break down barriers and encourage other people of colour into the industry are Darcey Williams and Myrtle Hallion, both 12.

Darcey’s mother Samantha told H&H her family is “not horsey at all, but life’s all about horses now”.

Darcy, whose heritage is white/Afro-Caribbean, had a ride at a party aged three and was hooked. Her talent was clear to those who taught her and, after her family moved from Bradford to the Yorkshire countryside, she met showjumper Guy Williams, with whom she is now based.

“You don’t have to be born into a horsey family,” Samantha said. “I think that’s a perception; there aren’t many Black families that are riders, and even Darcey’s nan asked if she’d be accepted because she’s mixed-race. She’s happy now and wants Darcey to do well and encourage more diversity. And Darcey wants to encourage more people to take it up and get the love for it like she has.”

Samantha was pleased to hear of the BEF initiatives, as was Claire Hallion, who is married to showjumper Mark and whose mixed-heritage daughter Myrtle, also 12 and aiming for the Olympics, is following in her adoptive father’s footsteps.

Myrtle (pictured) was placed in the top 10 at the London Global Champions Tour leg last summer, and jumped in the main ring at Hickstead, and has been invited to the GCT in Monaco in July.

Claire told H&H her daughter, who is also a successful model, wants to be a role model for other young people of colour.

“It’s good for British showjumping to have young people of colour coming through; it is such a white sport but it should be accessible to everyone,” she said.

Claire said Myrtle and Mark had heard comments about “the Black girl” at shows, and that Myrtle felt more accepted once Mark and Claire married and she took his surname, adding that Myrtle is already inspiring other riders.

British Equestrian to receive +£5 million to ‘level up’ access to horse sport

Becky Murray — Fri, 20 May 2022 15:46:42 +0000

More than £5m of funding is being invested into equestrian sport as part of the Government’s plans to “level up” access to physical activity across the country.

British Equestrian (BEF) is one of more than 120 organisations working in partnership with Sport England on the 10-year “Uniting the Movement” strategy. The project was developed after Sport England research found some groups are “typically less active” including women, people with long-term health conditions, disabled people and those from ethnically diverse communities and lower socio-economic groups.

More than £550m is being invested by Sport England into the strategy, of which BEF will receive £5,187,216. Organisations were selected because of their ability to “influence change and improvement at the heart of the system they are a part of”.

“Equestrianism is a model sport for gender equality, age range, disability access and at its core is accessible to most socio-economic groups,” said a BEF spokesman. “However, we’re less successful in promoting ethnic diversity and this must become a feature of our future if we are to thrive and represent society better.

“Alongside our unique position, we will utilise this funding in partnership with stakeholders to ensure those who feel excluded are catered for by providing insight about the barriers communities face. This in turn will enable us to adapt our approaches to remove those barriers and increase access.”

Sport England chief executive Tim Hollingsworth said the Sport England’s goal is to get everyone active “no matter who they are, where they live or what their background is”.

“We can only innovate and tackle inequalities effectively by thinking about long-term change; Uniting the Movement is a long-term vision and our funding approach needs to reflect that,” he said.

BEF head of participation Mandana Mehran Pour added the organisation is “very excited” to be working with Sport England and playing its role in providing the voice, inspiration and leadership for all those involved with equestrianism.

“Our aim is to tackle inequalities in equestrian sport and it will form a major part of our workflow as a key focus in our overall strategy,” she said.

Last month, BEF announced plans to carry out research to understand the barriers to participation in riding, vaulting and carriage driving (news, 21 April). Following a tender process, BEF has confirmed the work will be carried out by learning and development consultancy AKD Solutions.

“This is the first major piece of work done in this area and we hope to learn through lived experience of people from ethnically diverse communities and low socio-economic backgrounds, which will help us to facilitate the way forward to our end goal,” said Ms Mehran Pour.

Young equestrian entrepreneur’s dream to inspire as diversity work continues

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 20 Apr 2022 15:21:52 +0000

A RIDER who started a clothing brand aged 17 hopes her success will encourage more people of colour into equestrianism – as work continues to increase the industry’s diversity.

Caroline Ogunshola (pictured, left) was 17 when she founded Lusso Equestrian Apparel, which grew to a five-figure turnover in its first year.

Caroline told H&H she started riding aged 10, near her home in London.

“I was very lucky; it cost £8 for a weekend, so you’d get there at 9am, help out and ride for half an hour. Any more than that and I couldn’t have done it,” she said, adding that horses had to take a back seat while she studied for her A levels and then a business admin apprenticeship.

“But horses have always been a big part of my life and during the first lockdown, I started watching things like Heartland,” she said. “It made me want to start again but everywhere was closed so I decided to use my interest to start a business, just to reconnect.”

Caroline watched countless YouTube videos and used money she had saved for a car, doing everything from creating her logo to designing her website.

“My driving test kept being cancelled because of Covid; it was like everything aligned,” she said. “I had no design experience, just thought about what I wanted and was needed, and it was good riding leggings, which were comfortable. My brand is about a luxury feel without the price tag, comfort and, most importantly, trying to build a community.”

Caroline said once she had created her products, she needed pictures, but did not want to model herself.

“You don’t see many people of colour riding, and I thought people might judge, and think I didn’t know what I was doing, or my clothes were no good,” she said. “I tried to hide that the person behind it was a person of colour.

“Then I read about Khadijah [Mellah] and found Ebony Horse Club, and thought, ‘This is exactly what’s needed.’ I realised I wasn’t helping by doing what I was doing.”

Caroline says people are “taken aback” by the fact she rides, but she wants to encourage more people of colour into the industry, into riding and also careers.

“I think people want to be involved but think they can’t as they don’t see others who look like them,” she said. “My video did start a conversation and I think there need to be more, even if they’re uncomfortable.”

Caroline hopes imagery such as hers, using herself and her sister Toni, who also rides (pictured, right), will help.

“I hope other people will see it and think, ‘I can do that,’” she said. “I’m proud to have become a business owner and even more proud to pave the way for other ethnic minorities to enter this industry.”

Linda Greening, head of inclusivity at Hartpury University, spoke on diversity in relation to the staffing crisis at the National Equine Forum (3 March) as part of her aim to “keep inclusivity on the agenda”.

She told H&H of recent developments, including British Equestrian’s (BEF) programme for coaches in urban riding schools and its invitation to tender for research to help “understand the barriers to making equestrian activity more inclusive and representative of the UK population”.

She added that joint work between land-based colleges to encourage people from under-represented communities into the industry had stalled somewhat owing to a Government change in focus to outreach teams going into schools, and efforts to maintain momentum are ongoing.

Miss Greening agreed raising awareness of the range of jobs in the industry, as well as riding, is key, adding that she has tendered for some research on increasing diversity in equestrian post-graduate studies, for example.

“There’s definitely movement and momentum,” she said. “Everyone is mobilising, which is really good, and we’ve got to keep it on the agenda so people keep talking about it.”

Miss Greening added that the industry has to be a welcome place for all in it.

BEF head of participation Mandana Mehran Pour told H&H the BEF is “committed to making equestrianism more inclusive and accessible”, and continues to focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). She said the research open for tender, on behalf of BEF members, focuses on people from ethnically diverse communities and low socio-economic backgrounds.

“The outcome will help us shape an EDI strategy, to be developed with federation members,” she said. “We are all committed to make our sport diverse, inclusive, and welcoming to people from all backgrounds. The BEF is taking leadership in this area on behalf of the federation, and we’re also linked with the British Horseracing Authority and will collaborate more closely with it and its stakeholders.”

Ms Mehran Pour agreed that the focus is not just on riding but the huge range of activities people can be involved in within equestrianism, “from volunteering at a riding school or event to the career opportunities available”, adding that a report is also due to be released on diversity within the BEF workforce.

She said the Government is encouraging sporting governing bodies to address diversity, and people’s experiences in sports, and that the BEF will commit to “harness a culture of everyday inclusion to enable us to make real headway towards tackling inequalities within our ecosystem”.

The BEF also plans to carry out research aiming to develop urban equestrianism, working with urban riding schools.

Need for equine and humanitarian aid ‘grows more desperate’ in Ukraine

Becky Murray — Wed, 13 Apr 2022 15:50:20 +0000

The need for more humanitarian and equine aid “grows more desperate” as the war in Ukraine continues.

Four weeks on, the British Equestrians for Ukraine (BEU) group – set up by British Equestrian, the British Horse Society, the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) and World Horse Welfare with the support of member bodies across the industry – continues to raise funds and coordinate supplies to the country.

“The situation in Ukraine continues to be severe, with fighting intensifying in the south and east and the need for humanitarian and equine aid grows more desperate,” said a BEU spokesman.

“Working in collaboration both in the UK and with parties in Europe and Ukraine, BEU has so far helped nine lorries of goods get delivered and assisted with funding for holding facilities and personnel to help with logistics and coordination.”

A BEU spokesman said through collective efforts, donations to the BEU fund, hosted by World Horse Welfare, stand at £164,000 and food forage and bedding in the nine-truck convoy sent to Poland at the end of last month has now been distributed through Ukraine to key locations where its most needed.

“The Ukrainian equestrian federation (UEF) is prioritising relocating equines to holding camps in safe areas over trying to get them across the border into Poland and beyond,” said the spokesman.

“The wait times for paperwork to be checked, even for microchipped horses, is generally 20 to 40 hours on the border. The camps provide housing and support for any horse and any people who travel with them and BEU has been providing logistics and financial help to set up and run the camps.”

The spokesman added that the British Veterinary Professionals for Ukraine (BVPU) has now linked into the BEU fund for monetary assistance to support the need for veterinary supplies, alongside their own fundraising which has raised £44,000 for humanitarian aid. The British Equestrian Veterinary Association Trust has contributed, as has the American Association of Equine Practitioners.

BEVA president-elect and BVPU team member David Rendle will travel to the Polish/Ukrainian border this week to assess the situation and veterinary stands. He is currently coordinating a lorry of donated supplies to leave the UK, and will work with BETA chief executive Claire Williams to ensure the lorry is full of any additional equine, pet and humanitarian supplies.

BETA is also working on a supply source and transport provider for haylage and bedding to Europe so BEU can fund more economical ways to get supplies to Ukraine efficiently. The current requirement is for low-protein, small bale forage and shavings, UEF has reported good stocks of hard feed.

“The situation in Ukraine remains utterly dire but thanks to people’s generosity we are starting to have some impact in getting aid to where it is needed, through donations of supplies and funding. The initial response to the appeal has been amazing and to have legends like Lucinda Green and Carl Hester supporting our collective effort is incredible,” said Roly Owers, World Horse Welfare chief executive.

“However, the stark reality is that the desperate need to support Ukrainian horses and the wider sector will remain for months to come, whatever happens on the ground. So we would implore everyone to continue to donate and to fundraise in support of this much needed initiative.”

‘Their future has never been more uncertain’: joint bid launched to save our riding schools

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 16 Mar 2022 11:57:15 +0000

A joint effort has been launched to try to safeguard the future of Britain’s riding centres, for which a “viable future has never been more uncertain”.

British Equestrian, working with the British Horse Society, the Association of British Riding Schools, the Riding for the Disabled Association and the Pony Club, as well as riding centres across the country, has initiated the “groundbreaking” project.

“A viable future for our riding centres has never been more uncertain,” said British Equestrian head of participation Mandana Mehran Pour.

“Riding centres and schools face a series of difficulties, not least those presented by the global pandemic in recent years. Costs are rising, the licensing process is more complex than ever, and a shortage of suitable staff and horses are just some of the early indications from proprietors of the issues they’re facing.

“We aim to deliver accurate and meaningful data that gives a ‘health check’ on the nation’s riding centres, which can then be used to target areas for improvement and where help is most needed. It also will give us facts to present in our lobbying of Government on the issues, as well as present a realistic picture of the impact of Covid-19 on the sector.”

All responses will be confidential and anonymous, and participants will be entered into a draw to win feed worth over £1,200 from British Equestrian partners Dodson & Horrell.

The survey is open until midnight on 27 March. Riding schools that have not been sent a survey link by one of the above organisations but would like to take part are asked to email participation@bef.co.uk.

British equestrians step up for Ukraine with new appeal

Becky Murray — Wed, 09 Mar 2022 18:04:05 +0000

Equestrian organisations have come together to launch the British Equestrians for Ukraine appeal, to aid the developing equine crisis in the country.

The appeal has been set up by British Equestrian (BEF), World Horse Welfare, the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) and the British Horse Society, with the support of member bodies across the industry, to help facilitate a supply chain to meet the immediate need for goods on the ground in Ukraine. Money will also be raised to help buy supplies and cover the costs associated with transport.

“This is a dire situation, and alongside the immediate humanitarian crisis, we must do everything we can to prevent the unnecessary suffering of all equines and help those who care for them,” said BEF chief executive Jim Eyre.

“We’re fortunate that our equestrian community is blessed with so many willing to help those in need. However, it’s apparent that careful coordination is required to make sure urgent goods get to those in need through the correct channels. We hope that we can help facilitate that while urgently raising funds for the emergency requirements and beyond. I’d like to thank all those involved in getting the fund and export effort launched, particularly Alec Lochore, Alice Fox-Pitt, Roly Owers, James Hick and Claire Williams.”

Financial contributions can be made to the appeal via the British Equestrians for Ukraine fund on the World Horse Welfare website. Donations will allow the group to work with trusted local partners including the Ukraine and Polish federations and recognised charities to provide emergency support. UK taxpayers can sign up to Gift Aid, which means the fund will receive an extra 25p from every £1 donated, at no extra cost.

World Horse Welfare chief executive Roly Owers said the tragedy unfolding in Ukraine is “utterly heartbreaking”, adding there has been “such a desire” from across Britain to help Ukraine’s horses and those who own or care for them.

“This fund aims to do just that and, along with the BHS, we have donated to the appeal, and would encourage others to do the same,” he said.

“Without doubt there will be huge challenges to effectively target funds where they are most needed, so we will strive to work through a network of trusted local partners in what is clearly such an unsettled and rapidly evolving situation.”

A spokesman for the group for the appeal said it is also working with leading equestrian brands and BETA members to coordinate offers of the urgently required goods and then matching them with planned haulage trips to the Polish logistics hub established by the Ukrainian and Polish equestrian federations.

“This way we can ensure lorries are leaving British shores full, with the right supplies and correct exportation documentation to expedite the goods getting into Poland and on to Ukraine,” he said.

BETA executive director Claire Williams said what had been achieved in such a short time showed what can be done by working together.

“Shipments of hay and bedding are already on their way, but the logistics due to Brexit are challenging,” she said. “Feed companies with distributors and stock on the continent are stepping up to assist while others who are experienced exporters are committing supplies to be sent over either through shared loads or direct with their usual hauliers. Other companies who are not in a position to send products have also pledged cash donations to the new fund.”

Financial donations can be made at:

Equine: British Equestrians for Ukraine Fund

Humanitarian: Disasters Emergency Committee

Companies can donate small packaged haylage/forage, hard feed, and shavings in packs weighing less than 20kg and should contact info@beta-uk.org, which can help with the logistics. Any product supplied needs to be accompanied by export documentation and should not require export health certificates.

In the veterinary world, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) said the organisation is “determined” to offer as much help and support as it can to Ukrainian veterinary colleagues who are fleeing the criss and seeking refuge in the UK.

“Our financial support scheme for refugees that we launched in 2020 and expanded last October is therefore immediately available for Ukrainian veterinary surgeons with refugee status, but holding non-recognised qualifications, who are looking for the chance to rebuild their lives and professional careers in the UK,” said an RCVS spokesman.

The scheme enables UK-based vets with refused status to take the RCVS statutory examination for membership for free, provides financial support for travel and accommodation to help them attend exams and free access to RCVS library resources, and provides free membership to associations including the British Equine Veterinary Association.

The RCVS has also made enquiries with the Ukrainian Institute and Federation of Veterinarians of Europe as to whether coordinated efforts are being planned to provide veterinary support for animals that are being brought across the Ukrainian border into neighbouring EU countries, and will publish further details if and when these become available.

Equestrian retailer Foster Equestrian Ltd has announced it will donate all proceeds from purchases of Flex-On composite magnetic inserts. 50% will go to the Red Cross, and 50% to the Ukrainian Equestrian Federation Charity Foundation.

New leading rider award at major horse trials, plus more sponsorship news

Lucy Elder — Sun, 30 Jan 2022 12:03:07 +0000

Animalintex sponsors eventing leading rider award

A new leading rider award at the Eventing Spring Carnival at Thoresby Park will debut this year, sponsored by Animalintex.

The fixture is home to the CCI4*-S Grantham Cup, one of the major international spring one-day contests, as well as short format two- and three-star classes and national sections.

The Animalintex leading rider award will run over the three days (1 to 3 April), with points awarded for the top six placings in all classes. The top three riders will receive cash prizes and the winner will also be presented with the leading rider trophy.

“Without doubt the Animalintex leading rider award is a fantastic new idea for us and is a concept that has been very popular in the world of racing at the major festivals for many years,” said Stuart Buntine, of organisers BEDE Events.

Lindsay Hall, product manager at Robinson Animal Healthcare, which owns the Animalintex brand, added: “We were very pleased with the sponsorship when we supported the Pony Club mounted games at Osberton International in the autumn, which was also run by the BEDE Events.

“We are really excited about sponsoring the Animalintex leading rider award and hope it adds even more prestige to this high-profile horse trials.”

Floors Castle International Horse Trials returns to the eventing calendar in May following a three-year hiatus, and with a new title sponsor.

Malcolm Group, a family-run logistics, construction and maintenance services company that celebrates its centenary this year, has signed as title sponsor.

There were fears the fixture would be lost, after the previous organisers announced that the 2019 event would be the last.

But Jamie Innes, who previously organised both Floors Castle and Thirlestone, worked with organisers the Edward family to revive the event.

“Floors has always been one of our favourite events. As a family all six, all of us have competed there from BE90 through to intermediate. We are delighted to have the opportunity to organise this prestigious Scottish event,” said organiser Bruce Edward, whose family business Kick On Events also runs Hopetoun and Forgandenny.

“The Malcolm Group is a long-standing supporter of Scottish eventing, They are friendly and approachable people whom we are delighted to have on board.”

The 2022 event, by kind permission of the Duke of Roxburghe, will run from 13 to 15 May, with classes from BE80 to CCI3*-S.

Boodles signs Cheltenham Gold Cup deal

Jeweller Boodles is the new sponsor of the Cheltenham Gold Cup.

The move expands on a multi-year partnership between Boodles and the Cheltenham Festival. The brand sponsored the leading jockey award at the Festival for four years, before taking on sponsorship of the Boodles Juvenile Handicap Hurdle from 2018.

Last year’s flagship Grade One ran without a sponsor, after a deal with Magners – originally signed for three years – came to an early end. The cider brand was title sponsor of the race and presenting partner of the Festival in 2019 and 2020, but it was revealed in December 2020 that it would not be continuing.

Naming rights for the 2021 event went to children’s charity WellChild. The charity will continue to be supported by the Jockey Club through continued involvement with the Festival.

Boodles has also donated a piece from its “Radiance” collection to auction in support of WellChild.

“It is wonderful to enjoy this association with Boodles, such an iconic British brand, at Cheltenham and we are very proud to see this partnership expand to take on the most prestigious jump race in the world,” said Ian Renton, managing director of Cheltenham racecourse and the Jockey Club’s west region.

Boodles chairman Nicholas Wainwright added that the company is “thrilled to have the opportunity”.

“We have had a long association with horseracing at Aintree over many years – having been established in Liverpool in 1798 – and of course in recent years at the home of jump racing, Cheltenham,” he said.

“Our involvement and sponsorship of the Cheltenham Gold Cup is a perfect fit for us and we are going to enjoy the journey.”

The Boodles Cheltenham Gold Cup runs on the fourth day of the Festival (Friday, 18 March).

Bates Saddles secures official partner status

The brand is the new official saddle partner to British Equestrian in its third major signing in a year.

The news follows Bates Saddles’ joining both British Eventing and the German Equestrian Federation as official partner in 2021. It is also the official saddle of the United States Eventing Association.

“As an organisation, they share the same fundamental values in respect of equine welfare and comfort and we look forward to sharing their knowledge and expertise with our own audience,” said British Equestrian chief executive Jim Eyre.

“The team at Bates Saddles have a strong desire to ensure all riders, no matter what saddle brand they ride in, have informative material readily available to them when it comes to saddle fitting to ensure every horse can be ridden as comfortably as possible. This is naturally a core objective for ourselves and we look forward to working alongside them in this exciting new partnership.”

Bates Saddles managing director, Ron Bates, added: “The guiding principle behind each of our saddlery innovations is to put horses first.

“As a national governing body, British Equestrian provides exemplary leadership to equestrians throughout the country, bringing awareness to horse welfare and wellbeing. We are extremely proud to contribute to this undertaking and look forward to the opportunities this partnership will bring.”

The hay steamer brand has joined British Dressage as official partner, following recent deals with British Showjumping, British Eventing and British Equestrian.

The new three-year agreement means Haygain is now BD’s official hay-steaming supplier.

“It’s a great start to 2022 to be able to welcome Haygain as our latest official partner,” said BD chief executive Jason Brautigam.

“We’re looking forward to working with the Haygain team to promote the benefits of their products that support the well-being of our equine athletes and help to ensure that they remain happy and healthy.”

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(Image credit: David Kennedy/Athalens)

How post-Christmas Covid rules impact horse sport, plus update on indoor arenas should lockdowns arise

Lucy Elder — Wed, 22 Dec 2021 18:50:24 +0000

The equestrian world is urged to “exercise caution and remain vigilant” as Covid cases soar.

Equestrian activity can continue across the devolved nations and work is under way to challenge how indoor and covered arenas are viewed, should there be another lockdown. British Equestrian, its member bodies and the British Horse Society are in consultation with Government on this second point.

“Collectively, existing research findings have been compiled, and a new study has also been commissioned, which puts forward a strong case that the application of the smoke-free (premises and enforcement) regulations 2006 on equestrian riding facilities does not take into account their size and volume,” said a statement from British Equestrian.

“The submission is currently under review with Defra and we’ll keep up the momentum to try and keep our facilities open should there be another lockdown.

“In the meantime, any equestrian premises which use indoor or covered riding facilities are encouraged to write to their MPs outlining their concerns for their business and the resulting impact on equine welfare, should any or all of the country come under lockdown.”

New post-Christmas restrictions have been announced for Wales and Scotland. Equestrian activity can continue, provided mitigating measures are in place to comply with the new rules.

From Boxing Day in Wales, up to 50 people can attend outdoor events and up to 30 can attend indoor events. A maximum of six people will be allowed to meet in public premises.

First Minister Mark Drakeford said today (22 December) that there is an exception for team sports, where up to 50 spectators will be able to gather in addition to those taking part. He added that there is also an exception for events involving children.

The restrictions mean that in reality, most sporting events will be taking place behind closed doors, such as the Welsh Grand National (27 December).

In Scotland, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced restrictions as of Boxing Day that will be in place for three weeks at public events.

These include attendance limits of up to 100 standing and up to 200 seated at indoor events; and up to 500 seated or standing outdoors. All events will operate a 1m physical distancing requirement, and indoor contact sports should not take place.

Covid passes are already required for entry into certain sporting events and venues across the UK. The rules vary slightly in each devolved nation and visitors planning on attending racing over the festive period are urged to check the rules for each meeting and racecourse before they travel.

“The situation is rapidly changing and with differing requirements across the nations, so I’d urge the equestrian community to exercise caution and remain vigilant,” said British Equestrian chief executive Jim Eyre.

“It’s important you follow the news in your area to make sure you’re up to date with any rules and guidance in place during the festive period and beyond.

“We’ll continue to monitor any updates and publish guidance to ensure activity can continue, provided it’s within any Government requirements. Keep public mixing to a minimum, make sure you test before meeting others, wear a face-covering indoors and practice good hand hygiene in order to keep yourself and those around you safe.”

The specific rules for England, Wales and Scotland are as follows:

Wales

View the latest rules from the Welsh Government
The guidance from the Welsh Government for employers, businesses and organisations operating under alert level 0 was updated on 20 December, and any equestrian facilities and businesses are encouraged to review the document and regularly check for any further updates
The Welsh government also has guidance for businesses and organisations on reasonable measures action cards to cover a number of facilities and events, which are updated regularly and should be useful for any equestrian businesses

Scotland

In Scotland, the First Minister announced restrictions, which come in on 26 December for a period of three weeks around public events
Attendance of up to 100 for indoor standing events, up to 200 for indoor seated events, and up to 500 seated or standing outdoors
All events will operate a 1m physical distancing requirement
Indoor contact sports should not take place
sportscotland has issued further guidance on what this means for sport
From 27 December, people are being asked to limit their contacts, restrict gatherings to groups of no more than three households and to stay home as much as possible. Bars and restaurants should only operate on a table service basis where alcohol is served

England

The Prime Minister has confirmed that there will be no new Covid restrictions for England before Christmas but has not ruled out any further measures afterwards
It has also been announced that people infected with Covid in England can stop self-isolating after seven days, instead of the previous 10, if they show two negative lateral flow tests on days six and seven

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(Image credit: creditUnknown)

New coaching scheme aims to transform lives

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 27 Nov 2021 12:42:48 +0000

PEOPLE working in urban riding schools are working with British Equestrian (BEF) in a new scheme to help “transform lives and communities”.

The Equi-Youth programme, funded by Sport England and run with the Pony Club, is supporting volunteers and staff, from centres including Ebony Horse Club, the Urban Equestrian Academy, St James City Farm and Park Palace Ponies, to develop their skills and enable them to coach young people.

The 18-month scheme is designed to give a “complete coaching education”, including building skills in teaching riding, getting the most out of riders and working with young people.

BEF head of performance pathways David Hamer said: “Interviewing for our first cohort was a very rewarding experience – we were blown away by the enthusiasm, passion for the sport, and love of horses that each candidate shared.

“They all had a compelling narrative as to how they got into equestrianism and how much they’ve gained from being able to ride. They also expressed so much gratitude for this opportunity, but we are genuinely grateful to them for coming forward. Already, I’m enjoying following their journeys and can’t wait to see how they progress.”

The scheme’s lead mentors are British Horse Society fellows Darrell Scaife and Sarah MacDonald.

Mr Scaife said: “It’s been a great experience so far and the candidates are incredibly engaged, despite having to fit the programme in around busy lives and work commitments. All the coaches involved have the ability to go on and inspire so many young people and get them enjoying riding, and it’s really exciting to be a part of it.”

Mother-of-three Shantelle Griffith, who worked for the NHS and rode as a child, wanted to get back into horses and stumbled upon the Urban Equestrian Academy, where she now volunteers.

“I jumped at the chance to take part in the programme. It’s really interesting – Sarah and Darrell are guiding us in the right direction, making us feel really comfortable and welcome, and it’s really exciting,” she said. “I feel as though I’ve gone full circle – the course is building my confidence and confirming that I’m doing the right thing. I’m able to apply what I learn to the kids back to Urban Equestrian Academy, who inspire me as much as I’d like to inspire them.

“Horses have always been my passion and it’s a dream for me to be able to be a coach and mentor to the young kids. It’s everything, and I feel proud to be picked to be on the programme.”

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