Latest from Horse & Hound in British-eventing

Five-star campaigners and gold medallists among British squad for first under-25 eventing World Championships

Becky Murray — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 15:52:23 +0000

The British squad for the under-25 eventing World Championships at Millstreet has been announced.

The inaugural event gets under way in Ireland on 22 July. British Eventing (BE) selectors have now confirmed which Brits will be in action.

The young squad features plenty of scope and talent. Newly crowned U25 national champions Alice Casburn and Topspin bring forward a wealth of five-star experience, with an enviable nine completions and five finishes in the top 10. Alice and her mother Caroline’s home-bred gelding were part of the gold medal-winning young rider squad at the 2022 Europeans, where they won individual bronze.

Tom Bird is another seasoned five-star campaigner, though on different horses to the young Lenny. This nine-year-old mare, who competed in the Blenheim eight- and nine-year-olds last autumn, is yet to have a jumping fault across country.

Cerys Macaulay finished 15th in the Bramham CCI4*-S last month with her boyfriend Richard Coney’s Kananaskis. This 18-year-old gelding completed Pau with Richard in 2020 and was part of the team at the young rider Europeans in 2019. Cerys took over the reins in 2024.

Jasmine Underwood is the world number two young rider. She and Indian Girl G have five championships under their belt; including individual and team gold at the 2024 young rider Europeans. The pair were ninth at Royal Jump CCI4*-L in May and runners-up in the Ballindenisk CCI4*-S in April.

Jess Rimmer took over the reins of The Spice Merchant from Alexandra Munn in March last year. The pair are another to have a blemish-free international cross-country jumping record. They have completed three four-star shorts this spring; at Thoresby Park, Belsay and Bramham.

The British squad for the under-25 eventing World Championships is:

Tom Bird, 24, with nine-year-old mare Lenny

Owner: rider and his mother Frances, and Helen Kerry

Barnie Brotherton, 23, with 11-year-old gelding DHI King Nelson

Owner: Naomi Brotherton

Alice Casburn, 24, with 18-year-old gelding Topspin

Owner: Alice and her mother Caroline

Cerys Macaulay, 24, with 18-year-old gelding Kananaskis

Owner: Richard and Wendy Coney

Jess Rimmer, 24, with 14-year-old gelding The Spice Merchant

Owner: The Portman Ladies Syndicate

Jasmine Underwood, 21, with 13-year-old mare Indian Girl G

Owner: rider

Reserves:

Alice Casburn with nine-year-old mare LSS Ile De Re (direct reserve for Topsin)

Owner: Sally Witte and Carline Casburn

Finn Healy with nine-year-old gelding Greannanstown Monbeg Joe

Owner: rider

Lucy Stimson with 16-year-old Tynan Cooley

Owner: rider

“We are delighted to announce the combinations selected to represent Great Britain at the under-25 World Eventing Championships in Millstreet. The selectors have chosen riders and horses who they believe are best prepared to perform on this stage and represent BE with pride,” said chef d’equipe David Sheerin.

“We have two strong squads heading to Ireland, and it is fantastic to see the talent, dedication and hard work within the under-25 programme. The whole British Eventing youth programme is behind them, and we wish all the riders and their teams the very best of luck for the championships.”

A BE spokesperson thanked the governing body’s official safety partner Charles Owen, which as part of its long-term support of BE, is supplying each rider with a new Kontor body protector and custom team covers.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2026, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:’

(Image credit: Peter Nixon)

‘It’s about opening doors’: new BE Lite initiative to encourage people into eventing

Lucy Elder — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 17:26:54 +0000

The first “BE Lite” competition will run at Howick Horse Trials on 12 July, a new British Eventing (BE) scheme.

BE Lite is a “flexible affiliation model for unaffiliated events”. The idea is that there will be same rigorous safety standards as at an affiliated BE event, but it is designed to be an accessible route into the sport. This means organisers have greater flexibility and for riders the entry process is simplified and dress requirements are relaxed.

Horses and riders will not need to be BE members, nor pay a BE run fee on top of entry. Results will be published on the EventingScores website, but will not go on any records.

It will be a competition, not training, but the focus is on participation, enjoyment, confidence-building and progression. BE’s sports taskforce, which developed the idea, is finalising details in the rules, but BE’s standards in safety, welfare, safeguarding and event delivery will apply.

BE CEO Rosie Williams told H&H she hopes that there will be four or five BE Lite fixtures in this pilot year.

She said BE Lite is about “supporting organisers and riders, strengthening standards and creating more opportunities for people to enjoy our sport”.

“This initiative recognises that there is no single route into the sport and provides a welcoming, flexible framework that allows more people to experience eventing while benefiting from BE’s expertise in safety, welfare and sport delivery,” she said.

“Importantly, while some rules are simplified to encourage participation, the core principles that matter most remain unchanged. Horse welfare, rider safety, safeguarding, veterinary and medical provision and event oversight remain at the heart of every BE Lite competition.”

She added that this is about encouraging people who want to try eventing without feeling pressure to have to buy all the kit, particularly given current financial pressures.

Qualified officials will oversee competition and BE’s welfare, safeguarding and conduct standards apply. Riders who fall or repeatedly incur refusals on cross-country will be eliminated, in line with established safety principles.

Entry fees and prize money are being set by organisers. BE will not take money during the pilot phase, but it will in future.

“It is not a money-making exercise for BE,” said Ms Williams. “Yes we will take a little bit of revenue [in future], but for us it is about opening up the channel that allows a rider to do maybe two BE Lites and then get their brave pants on and perhaps go and do a BE80 – or maybe not! But they’ve tried it and had a good experience, I know they’re safe and I know that if things do go pear-shaped, there are [the right] people there to help.”

Venues that run unaffiliated events are not allowed to host international fixtures. Ms Williams confirmed that organisers who run BE Lite events, rather than unaffiliated, will be eligible in future.

Howick Horse Trials organiser Hannah Matthews said the Howick team is “thrilled to be the first venue to host a BE Lite competition and to support an initiative that helps make eventing more accessible while maintaining the high standards our sport is known for”.

“We hope it will encourage new riders to get involved and provide a positive experience for everyone taking part,” she added.

A spokesperson for unaffiliated series The Cotswold Cup told H&H that it “fully supports” the initiative.

Update: 25 June

BE has now published the full BE Lite rules. Visit: https://www.britisheventing.com/be-lite

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘Viability is always a tight balance,’ says British Eventing CEO Rosie Williams

Pippa Roome — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 09:32:20 +0000

British Eventing’s CEO Rosie Williams talks openly about the positives and challenges facing the sport

Everyone knows British Eventing (BE) has been through tough financial times and I’m more confident with the numbers now and the way we’re managing the situation. That said, it’s still challenging. My job isn’t to bank millions, but to build appropriate reserves.

Viability and costs are a challenge for us, organisers and members. What we can do is limited – we control entry fees and membership fees; we can’t control whether people spend £3,000 on a saddle.

We have to reduce barriers to participation and it’s a tight balance between taking revenue – from membership fees and entry levies – and putting those fees up so they become prohibitive.

We also have to make our business as efficient as possible – we’ve saved money by moving offices to share with British Dressage and British Showjumping and we’re well into a digital transformation towards a more cost-effective system that will improve the customer journey.

Event challenges

The way the calendar fits together is complicated. The first draft for 2027 went to organisers a month ago. It’s important that we offer our members a blend of competitions as locally as possible.

Organisers have different business models from greenfield sites to equestrian centres. Costs such as fuel and timber are escalating and out of our control.

People entering late doesn’t make it easy because there’s a date when organisers have to pay deposits. Understandably, organisers get stressed because it’s their pocket and we have to push people to stay in the game. Two hundred entries isn’t viable on ballot day – but I don’t want to let those 200 people down by cancelling.

Only so many horses can run per day – how much are organisers making out of each horse? Higher-end starters offer more value to organisers, because they pay more, but we have to balance that with 75% of members being at BE100 and below.

We’ve had a good start to the season – memberships, horse registrations and entries are strong. The weather and ground have played ball.

We support organisers with a marketing toolkit and templates. We also see success from working with organisers to send geographically targeted emails. Payday affects entries so we have to think strategically about ballot dates.

Then you get disrupters in the market – Tetworth did a great job and had heaps of entries. We were faced with balloting local riders at BE90 and BE100, because the rules prioritise higher-level classes, which didn’t seem fair. We added an extra day – we have to consider the knock-on effect when we do that.

Hard ground is a challenge – organisers do all they can with the ground they have. Many people believe watering is the only answer, but it’s expensive, not always sustainable or effective and many events don’t have access to water. We are working on fixing up our ground-care equipment so that’s available to organisers.

We also have to ask what members are doing to prepare their horses responsibly for different ground and terrain – if horse or pilot are unfit, they won’t cope as well.

Vital training

The BE Training Foundation, set up with support from David Howden, is a charity focused on officials’ education, investment in BE Prepared, our rider training platform, and raising money to support these things.

We want becoming an official to be clearer, easier and more competency based. We are focused on developing eight new stewards and we launched a new officials’ syllabus at Badminton.

In the background, we’re working to build our commerciality. Our reach and ability to tell a story is improving.

We’ve done well over the past couple of years at listening to and talking to our members. Some things can’t be fixed, but sometimes someone has a good idea no one else has thought of and I’m always happy to have conversations.

Eventing is a wonderful sport with a fantastic community and we need to work together to continue the momentum of change.

● What’s been your early season highlight? Write to us at hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your thoughts published in a future issue of Horse & Hound magazine

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major events, as well as exclusive insights from top names, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You might also enjoy reading:

(Image credit: Nico Morgan Media)

New enhanced veterinary suite to pop up at horse trials in 2026

(Image credit: Nico Morgan Media)

‘The prominence it deserves’: major format change for British open championship

(Image credit: Nico Morgan Media)

Vineyard owner, 61, wins BE100 Badminton grassroots championships – and sets a new record

(Image credit: Nico Morgan Media)

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Everything you need to know about body protector standards –and what’s accepted for your discipline

georgia.guerin@futurenet.com (Georgia Guerin) — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 09:07:37 +0000

Body protectors are designed to absorb impact from a fall, a kick or being stepped on by a horse, and certain body protector standards are compulsory for competitions under the rules of governing bodies.

The body protector standards were originally developed by the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA), with the help of riding organisations, doctors, riders, manufacturers and retailers. In 2000, the new BETA standard superseded all previous standards, but it has been revised twice since – in 2009 and 2018.

As of 1 January 2024, major governing bodies only accept body protectors that meet the latest BETA level 3 (2018) version of the standard, so if you plan to compete and your body protector is not up to standard, you’ll need to buy one of the best up-to-standard body protectors for horse riding or best body protectors for children.

What are the current body protector standards?

There are three levels of protection – and the vast majority of horse riders should look for BETA level 3, which is the highest standard of protection on offer.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

BETA level 3 (2018)

This is the latest version of the BETA level 3 standard and it is marked with a blue label. It’s the standard you need to look for if your governing body or rider organisation – for example, The Pony Club, British Eventing, British Riding Clubs or BSPS – requires you to wear a body protector.

All of the body protectors we’ve featured in our buying guides are currently accepted by all major governing bodies.

What about BETA level 3 (2009)?

The 2009 version of the BETA level 3 standard (with a purple label) ceased manufacturing in 2018 and it’s unlikely that you’ll see any of these purple-labelled body protectors in stores or online.

Governing bodies and rider organisations that require a body protector no longer recognise the purple 2009 label, with most ceasing to accept this on 31 December 2023. They can still be worn if you’re competing at British Dressage or British Showjumping as a body protector is optional and no guidance for a standard is given – or, indeed, if you’re not competing at all. However, it’s recommended that you replace your body protector every three to five years and the BETA level 3 (2018) standard offers the highest level of protection.

CE marks

A CE mark which, although not a quality mark, shows that a product is fit for purpose as outlined in personal protective equipment guidelines.

Body protectors that are CE marked to EN 13158:2018 (the European standard for equestrian body protectors) are annually retested to the BETA 2018 standard, which means they consistently meet the very latest in safety standards.

What are the different levels of body protector?

There are three levels of the 2018 revision, each designed for different activities and denoted by a colour-coded label on the garment.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Level 1 (green label) provides the lowest level of protection that is only considered appropriate for licensed jockeys while racing.
Level 2 (orange label) is only considered suitable for low-risk situations, which does not include jumping, riding on the road, riding young or excitable horses or riding while inexperienced.
Level 3 (blue label) is considered appropriate for general riding and competing. Level 3 body protectors should prevent minor injuries, including bruising that would have produced stiffness and pain, reduce soft tissue injuries and prevent some rib fractures.

Shoulder protection standards

There is also a BETA Standard for shoulder protectors. Shoulder pads that are sold to be worn with a particular body protector, such as the Racesafe Motion 3.0 shoulder pads, will have been tested to the same level as the body protector. Research into falls onto the shoulder during eventing competitions has shown that wearing adequate shoulder protection reduces the risk of breaking the collarbone by up to 80%.

For unlimited access to the latest product news, buying guides and reviews, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Horse & Hound’s useful guide to eventing levels in Britain

Pippa Roome — Fri, 20 Feb 2026 14:19:52 +0000

There are six core eventing levels available to riders who compete in national affiliated eventing in Britain, which is run by British Eventing (BE).

These levels offer a broad range of competition with cross-country fences from 80cm up to 1.20m, accommodating everyone from affiliated eventing first-timers up to serious professionals training for the Olympics.

British Eventing (BE) levels

BE80

What it involves: the maximum height of fences at this introductory eventing level is 80cm on the cross-country and 85cm in the showjumping, with the recommendation that the first three showjumps are below maximum height to allow horses to gain confidence.

Across country, combinations need to travel at 435 metres per minute (mpm) to avoid time-penalties and fences will ask basic questions of horse and rider. There are no specific BE80 dressage tests – these classes use BE90 dressage tests, which involve straightforward movements such as 20m circles, three-loop serpentines and free-walk on a long rein.

Best suited to: those trying eventing for the first time, looking to build confidence or start out with a young horse. This is your ideal opportunity to give it a go, even if the thought of throwing yourself down the Burghley Leaf Pit or into the Badminton Lake gives you the shakes.

More experienced competitors can only take part in these sections hors concours (HC) so they are “outside of the competition” and can’t be placed.

Katie Brickman and Greenkeld’s Moondance competing in the BE90 grassroots championship at Badminton. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

BE90

What it involves: the second eventing level, with fences up to 90cm on the cross-country and 95cm in the showjumping, again with the recommendation that the start of the course is smaller. The required speed across country is a little faster – 450mpm. The same dressage tests are used as at BE80, with relatively basic movements.

Best suited to: again, this is an introductory level, suitable for those who want to try out eventing or give a young horse experience. As at BE80, experienced competitors can only take part in BE90 classes HC and can’t be placed.

BE100

What it involves: you’ve got the hang of this now – the fences are up to 100cm on the cross-country and 1.05m in the showjumping, and the first three coloured fences should be below this height. The speed needed on the cross-country ramps up again, so it’s now 475mpm to avoid time-faults.

In the dressage, the circles and half circles can be as small as 10m, you might be required to give and re-take the inside rein in canter and transitions will come up more quickly.

Best suited to: this is the last true grassroots eventing level and the highest level of competition at which those in the year of their 14th birthday or older can start their BE journey without any prior qualifications (those in the year of their 12th or 13th birthday have to qualify at BE90 to ride at BE100).

Novice

What it involves: at novice, the showjumps are up to 1.15m and the cross-country fences max out at 1.10m. This is the first level where a treble and a water tray are allowed in the showjumping and there will be at least one four- or five-stride related distance. The cross-country combinations will be more technical, with narrower fences and more testing lines and the speed required picks up again, to 520mpm.

In the dressage, requirements across the tests include showing some medium trot and medium canter strides, a short section of counter-canter, rein-back, extended walk, leg-yield and a simple change of leg through trot.

Best suited to: novice is perhaps a bit of a misleading name – this eventing level is quite a step up from BE100 and a fairly serious test, so is best suited to those with a solid foundation at the grassroots levels.

Riders have to qualify at BE100 to take part. Horses can start eventing at novice if their rider is suitably qualified, but most will begin at the lower levels, even if they are ridden by a top professional.

Meghan Healy and Think It Over on the intermediate cross-country course at Thoresby. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Intermediate

What it involves: maximum fence heights are 1.25m in the showjumping and 1.15m across country and again, the difficulty steps up in both phases. The required speed in the showjumping is 350mpm (325mpm at all levels below this) and across country it’s up to 550mpm.

The showjumping will include both a double and a treble and at least one three- or four-stride related distance and the margin for error will decrease in the cross-country as the fences become more demanding. Movements such as shoulder-in, transitions from walk to canter, medium and collected trot and collected canter feature in the dressage.

Best suited to: most riders at this levels are professionals, although the odd brave, skilled amateur will make it to intermediate. Riders and horses need qualifications at novice to move up to intermediate and both will need to be confident tackling large fences in quick succession on technical lines.

Advanced

What it involves: this is the top level of BE competition. Showjumps are up to 1.30m (and the speed has increased again to 375mpm) and cross-country fences can be as big as 1.20m, with a required speed of 570mpm. The technicality in both will be appropriately tough for this high level.

In the dressage, horses and riders are asked for extended versions of all paces, half-pirouettes in walk, half-passes in trot and canter and flying changes.

Best suited to: the bravest of them all – both horse and rider! Obviously horses and riders have to qualify at intermediate to move up to this top level and will need to be skilled, confident and well trained to succeed.

Open classes and age-restricted sections

Open classes run with the same dressage tests and courses as regular sections, but those who are “over-qualified” for the level in terms of their previous experience or points won can take part and collect placings. There is one specific open intermediate (OI) dressage test, but OI classes can also be run using a standard intermediate test.

Age-restricted sections are specific classes for riders under a certain age, for example under-18 classes are common up to novice level, under-21 classes at intermediate level and under-25 classes at advanced.

Interim levels

To accommodate those wishing to get a taste of a level above the one they are competing at, BE offers interim eventing levels of competition in which the dressage is the standard of difficulty of the class above, the showjumping is between the two heights or at the higher level and the cross-country is at the lower level.

Interim competitions include:

BE100plus – novice dressage, showjumps up to 1.10m, BE100 cross-country
intermediate novice – intermediate dressage, showjumps up to 1.15m but with greater width, speed and technical requirements than at novice, and novice cross-country
advanced intermediate – advanced or advanced intermediate dressage (there is one specific advanced intermediate test) advanced showjumping, and intermediate cross-country
BE105 – novice dressage, showjumps up to 1.10m, but it is an unusual interim level in that it has its own cross-country course (with fences up to 1.05m) while the other interim levels all use one of the six standard cross-country courses

Useful links

FEI eventing levels

Those wishing to compete in eventing at international levels are offered five tiers of competition. There are two types of FEI competition – one- (-S) and three-day (-L) – with both types offered at two-, three- and four-star. Qualifications at three- and four-star require pairs to compete at the short format of a level before stepping up to the long. At one-star and five-star, there is just one competition format.

One-star

What it involves: with showjumping fences up to 1.10m and cross-country maximum height of 1.05m, this is the introductory level of international competition. The dressage tests involve movements such as 10m circles in trot, 15m circles in canter, lengthened strides and leg-yield.

Best suited to: first-timers at international level, who are competing successfully at BE100 and either BE105 or novice.

Two-star

What it involves: this is essentially international novice level with showjumps up to 1.15m and cross-country obstacles maxing out at 1.10m and the same speed required across country as BE novice (520mpm). Medium trot and canter, rein-back, short sections of counter-canter and give and retake the reins are typical in the dressage tests.

Best suited to: those competing successfully at novice.

Three-star

What it involves: the international equivalent of national intermediate – showjumps are up to 1.20m and cross-country fences up to 1.15m, with a cross-country speed of 550mpm. The dressage tests feature the likes of extended walk and trot, collected trot and canter, shoulder-in and half-pass.

Best suited to: pairs with a solid record at BE intermediate level and the appropriate international qualifications.

Emily King and Jackpot competing in the CCI4*-S at Bramham. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Four-star

What it involves: four-star is roughly equivalent to BE advanced, with showjumps up to 1.25m and cross-country fences measuring a maximum of 1.20m. The required country speed is 570mpm. Flying changes come into the dressage tests at this level, as well as collected and extended versions of all paces and half-pirouettes.

Best suited to: very experienced riders and horses with consistent results at BE advanced and the lower international levels.

Five-star

What it involves: the very top level of eventing. Showjumping is up to 1.30m and while the cross-country maximum height (1.20m) and speed required (570mpm) is the same as four-star, the brush can go bigger, the spreads are wider and the technicality of the test is increased, with the toughest of angles, the skinniest of skinnies and the most challenging lines.

The dressage movements are much the same as at four-star, but they are placed through the routine in such a way that they are more difficult to execute well, with everything coming up more quickly and the sequence of movements designed to be more testing.

Best suited to: the crème de la crème of the eventing world – this is an elite level that most can only dream about. Think the Wimbledon of the tennis world or the Champions League in football.

Useful links

FEI eventing rulebook
FEI eventing dressage tests
BE rulebook: international qualifications
To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

The major UK horse trials that eventing fans shouldn’t miss in 2026

Pippa Roome — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 16:23:49 +0000

Looking for a horse trials to attend this year? We have the dates of all the major UK horse trials in 2026, so look no further.

I’ve been reporting on major equestrian events in the UK and abroad for more than 20 years, so I’ve drawn on my experience to put together this handy guide to help you navigate the 2026 eventing calendar. At the top levels of eventing, each horse trials offers something a little different – both to riders and spectators – so here’s all the essential info on which horse trials are near you and why you might want to visit them.

Major UK horse trials to visit in 2026

There are plenty of top names to be spotted at Thoresby each April. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Thoresby Park International Eventing Spring Carnival

Date: 3–5 April

Location: Nottinghamshire

Why it’s important and worth attending: the first international fixture of the year in Britain and a chance to see numerous five-star and championship horses in action. Expect to spot plenty of stars being given a prep run for the major spring three-day events at Badminton Horse Trials and Kentucky Three-Day Event in the CCI4*-S, plus there are lower level international classes at CCI3*-S and CCI2*-S, as well as an under-25 advanced prize, so up-and-coming horses and riders are also on display.

Something you must do while you’re there: The Great Thoresby Easter Egg Hunt. For £35, families can pick up a family bundle ticket for Sunday 5 April including admission for two adults, a car parking ticket and two Easter Egg Hunt tickets for children. The aim is for families to have a great time around the event, see everything that is on offer and let the small people run off the Easter excitement!

More information: thoresby-horse.co.uk

Barefoot Retreats Burnham Market Horse Trials

Date: 17-19 April

Location: Norfolk

Why it’s important and worth attending: the second major pre-Badminton and Kentucky spring fixture, after Thoresby – some riders will pick one or the other and some will run at both, depending on individual preference. There is a strong range of supporting classes, too.

Something you must do while you’re there: check out the terrier racing, the tradestands and the falconry.

More information: musketeer.co.uk

Badminton Horse Trials attracts around 200,000 spectators each year. (Image credit: Nico Morgan)

Mars Badminton Horse Trials

Date: 5-10 May

Location: Gloucestershire

Why it’s important and worth attending: this is the big one! The most important spring horse trials in Britain, at five-star level. It’s an event everyone wants to win and the entry list will be packed with the biggest names in the sport. If you want inspiration at a lower level, check out the Lemieux Grassroots Championships on Tuesday and Wednesday. Feeling inspired? Get your Badminton tickets now.

Something you must do while you’re there: if you’re there early on Saturday, take a wander over the grass between The Lake and Badminton House and see top horses enjoying a relaxing bite of grass with their grooms before all the action starts. And then enjoy the Shetland Pony Grand National in the main arena before cross-country gets going.

More information: badminton-horse.co.uk

Belsay Horse Trials, supported by Barbour

Event date: 15-17 May

Location: Northumberland

Why it’s important and worth attending: this picturesque event in the grounds of Belsay Castle stepped up to four-star level last year, replacing Chatsworth in the calendar, and will again host international classes from CCI* to CCI4*-S, as well as national classes. Expect to see horses en route to Bramham and a few re-routing after a hiccup at Badminton.

Something you must do while you’re there: if you’re bringing children, check out the family fun trail, hobby horse arena, archery and the fun fair. Supporting classes include the popular inter-hunt relay.

More information: belsayhorsetrials.co.uk

Bicton Horse Trials

Event date: 27-31 May

Location: Devon

Why it’s important and worth attending: the showcase CCI4*-S at Bicton Horse Trials includes the only British leg of the FEI Nations Cup in eventing. A team competition always adds an extra frisson to an event – watch the home side battle it out with the overseas challengers. The supporting classes include sections for ponies, juniors and young riders, with the young rider class hosting the national championship at the level.

Something you must do while you’re there: head to the beach. Budleigh Salterton beach is less than 10 minutes drive away, so combine a visit to the horse trials with some bucket and spade time or fish and chips on the sand.

More information: bictonhorse.com

Bramham sees lots of big-name combinations who are heading for five-stars. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Bramham Horse Trials

Event date: 11-14 June

Location: Yorkshire

Why it’s important and worth attending: the British spring CCI4*-L – that is, the level just below five-star – so this is big testing ground for the horses who might step up to Burghley Horse Trials in the autumn or Badminton next year. The CCI4*-S is likely to be used by various nations as an important trial before the World Championships in Aachen and the under-25 prize in this class is prestigious, too.

Something you must do while you’re there: on Saturday and Sunday, Fantastic Faces will be providing face painting using an eco-friendly glitter bar, henna tattoos and hair braiding. They will also be running a workshop with equine-based activities, to include sand art, craft stations and rosette making.

More information: bramham-horse.co.uk

Aston-le-Walls Horse Trials, sponsored by Project Pony

Event date: 10-12 July

Location: Northamptonshire

Why it’s important and worth attending: will probably provide a final run for a number of World Championship horses, not least because the going is always immaculately prepared here and the fact the showjumping runs on a surface is a good mimic for championship conditions.

Something you must do while you’re there: stand on the mound for a good view of the cross-country course – and see if you can spot performance managers up there keeping an eye on their medal hopefuls.

More information: astonlewalls.net

Burgham Horse Trials

Event date: 30 July-2 August

Location: Northumberland

Why it’s important and worth attending: huge CCI4*-S sections offer the opportunity to see plenty of top horses and riders, while there is a full array of supporting national and international classes. Andy Heffernan takes over as course-designer for the CCI4*-S this year (David Evans continues to design the other tracks) so it’ll be interesting to see his changes.

Something you must do while you’re there: spot the next Ballaghmor Class! Oliver Townend’s recently retired star won here twice and was second three times in the CCI4*-S sections – who can take over his mantle? Plus there are tradestands, retrained racehorse classes, Dubarry young event horse qualifiers and unaffiliated showjumping, as well as the eventing classes.

More information: burghaminternationalhorsetrials.co.uk

NAF Five Star Hartpury Horse Trials

Event date: 13-16 August

Location: Gloucestershire

Why it’s important and worth attending: Hartpury Horse Trials hosts the British Eventing national championships at open, intermediate and novice level, so it’s a great opportunity to see top combinations in the open, while the winners of the intermediate and novice championships are ones to earmark as stars of the future. Because it’s a championship, all the riders will be trying extra hard to win – rather than having a nice quiet schooling round – so the competition is fierce. There’s a novice restricted championship, the Corinthian Cup, and a championship for retrained racehorses, too.

Something you must do while you’re there: mix town and country with a visit to Gloucester, just 15 minutes drive away. Check out the cathedral, built in the 1100s, or the historic docks or do some shopping.

More information: hartpury.ac.uk

Scone Palace Horse Trials

Event date: 26-30 August

Location: Perthshire, Scotland

Why it’s important and worth attending: this will be the second running of Scone in this spot in the eventing calendar, after a successful inaugural event last year after the site took over the date previously held by the popular Blair Castle Horse Trials. Scone provides a beautiful backdrop for Scotland’s premier horse trials, with the added bonus of permanent facilities at the racecourse. There are classes from grassroots level up to four-star, with some stars of the sport expected. Here’s more information about Scone Palace Horse Trials tickets.

Something you must do while you’re there: try out Willowgate’s pop-up adventure zone – a choice of four high-energy, free of charge activities with expert instructors to guide you. There’s axe throwing, archery, laser clay shooting and mini Highland games on offer.

More information: sconehorsetrials.com

The cross-country at Burghley is known to be one of the toughest tests of the sport. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Defender Burghley Horse Trials

Event date: 3-6 September

Location: Lincolnshire

Why it’s important and worth attending: Britain has just two five-star horse trials – the pinnacle of the sport – each year and Burghley is the autumn classic. The very best horses and riders in Britain, as well as visitors from overseas, will be battling it out for the title and the cross-country course, designed by renowned US designer Derek di Grazia, is known for being the toughest test in eventing.

Something you must do while you’re there: take a stroll up Winners’ Avenue and look at all the plaques for former victors – it’s a veritable who’s who of eventing and a lovely way to learn about the history of the sport. At the top, you will be sure to gasp at the size of the huge ditch in front of the Cottesmore Leap.

More information: burghley-horse.co.uk

Cornbury House Horse Trials

Event date: 10-13 September

Location: Oxfordshire

Why it’s important and worth attending: Cornbury hosts the national five-, six- and seven-year-old championships, as well as junior and young rider sections, so you can spot future stars both equine and human here. And the Racehorse to Eventer Challenge Cup has a huge £50,000 prize fund, so it should attract some top names who will be going all out to take that winners’ cheque.

Something you must do while you’re there: visit the champagne bar and hospitality marquee at the main water complex, with its stunning views over Cornbury House and the Wychwood Forest.

More information: cornburyhousehorsetrials.co.uk

Agria Blenheim Horse Trials

Event date: 17-20 September

Location: Oxfordshire

Why it’s important and worth attending: having hosted the European Championships last year, Blenheim Horse Trials returns to its usual schedule for 2026, with the CCI4*-L providing a great stepping stone towards five-star and the country’s hottest young horses in the CCI4*-S.

Something you must do while you’re there: have a look at Blenheim Palace itself, the birthplace and ancestral home of Sir Winston Churchill. It’s more than 300 years old, is the only non-royal country house in England to hold the title of palace and in 1987 was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

More information: bpiht.co.uk

Childéric Saddles Little Downham Horse Trials

Event date: 7 October

Location: Cambridgeshire

Why it’s important and worth attending: the final British four-star of the season, giving an opportunity for a prep run for horses who are off to Pau Horse Trials for the last European five-star of 2026. There’s an under-25 section in the advanced, so younger riders who’ve had a good year might take this chance to step up before the winter break.

Something you must do while you’re there: this fixture happens on a Wednesday – so don’t forget to call your boss and tell them you’re too sick to come to work…

More information: elyeventing.co.uk

If you want to find more horse trials to visit in 2026, have a look at the full eventing calendar on the British Eventing website.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major horse trials throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Eventing rule changes for 2026 – what you need to know about voice aids in dressage, tack rules and flag penalties

Pippa Roome — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 12:42:13 +0000

Are you up to speed on your eventing rule changes for 2026? We’ve looked at both the British Eventing rules, governing national competitions, and the FEI rules, which are in place for international classes, to highlight key changes.

Do make sure you look at the full rule book for whatever level of eventing competition you are interested in so that you are not caught out.

British Eventing rule changes 2026

Voices in dressage tests

Rule 6.1.4.5, page 44

What’s changed: this is an interesting “non-change” insofar as BE has had to add wording saying use of the voice is prohibited in dressage tests and will be penalised with the loss of two marks for each movement where it occurs.

There is no change here – use of the voice was not previously allowed in BE tests, but because BE dressage is governed by the rules of British Dressage, which now allow discreet voice aids, BE has had to clarify that it’s still banned in eventing.

Pulling yourself up across country for safety reasons

Rule 6.3.9.14, page 60

What’s changed: for the first time the rulebook makes provision for a rider to pull themselves up across country “on grounds of safety” – the specific reasons mentioned are a loose horse, loose dog or something blocking the course – and have their time adjusted.

Previously this time adjustment has only been covered in the rulebook if the competitor was pulled up by officials (which can also still happen).

Water trays in showjumping

Rule 6.2.6.3, page 50

What’s changed: if you’re competing at novice level or above, you need to teach your horse to jump a water tray – the new showjumping course and obstacle table shows that a water tray will be used from this level upwards if available. This isn’t actually a change, but a clarification aimed at improving consistency in course design and horse education.

Tack rules

Rule 7.19.2, page 68

What’s changed: bridles without throat lashes are now allowed in the dressage (but a throat lash is still needed for the jumping phases).

Rule 7.19.2, page 69

What’s changed: two changes around nosebands. Firstly, double or dual nosebands are now allowed for the jumping phases, including Kineton nosebands/bit lifters.

Secondly, a chain on the lower strap of a grackle is now allowed in the jumping phases, but the chain must be covered for cross-country. Chains on the inner surface of nosebands are still banned.

Rule 7.19.7, page 72

What’s changed: this is not a new rule, but it has been clarified that when using a running martingale in the jumping phases with two reins, the martingale rings can only be used on the top rein.

Option to run British open championships at four-star

Annex 6, page 170

What’s changed: the option has been added for the British open to be run at four-star, rather than as an advanced. With the championships now at Hartpury Horse Trials and the CCI4*-S proving much more popular than the British open there in terms of quality and quantity of entries, it will be interesting to see if the classes are combined this year and whether that can rejuvenate the open.

Jumping fences after retirement in showjumping

Rule 6.2.9, page 49

What’s changed: the rulebook now formalises that you can “make up to two attempts to jump any single obstacle in the proper direction” after retirement in the showjumping; previously the rule only allowed this after elimination.

Continuing before the bell after being stopped in showjumping

Rule 6.2.7, page 48

What’s changed: if you are stopped by the judge or stop voluntarily in the showjumping and then continue before the bell, you are eliminated – this is unchanged from last year’s rules. However, what’s new is that at BE80, BE90 and BE100 level, you will be allowed to finish the round before being eliminated.

Eligibility for BE80 championships

Annex 6, page 165

What’s changed: combinations who have gained foundation points at BE100 can now compete in BE80 regional and national championships.

Qualifying after the ballot date

Annex 6, page 164

What’s changed: a new rule states that combinations qualifying for a championship, series or qualifier after the ballot date will only be accepted at the organisers discretion and if the timetable allows for that specific class. If necessary, a wait list may be held.

Cross-country falls on the flat

Rule 6.3.11.4, page 61

What’s changed: a new cross-country rule sets out that a fall of rider or horse and rider that is not associated with a fence is a fall on the

flat (FOF) and that any fall within the lettered elements of a combination is considered to be associated to that fence.

Vaccinations

Rule 10.2.1, page 90

What’s changed: the wording has been updated to reflect BE moving from six-monthly to annual boosters and also remind riders that disciplinary sanctions will be applied for vaccination violations.

Coaching sessions for those whose riding gives cause for concern

Rule 3.8.6, page 23

What’s changed: the wording covering what happens if someone’s riding has given cause for concern, but without resulting in a disciplinary sanction, has been updated to say that if additional coaching sessions or assessments are needed, they will be paid for by the member or associate.

Electric and push bikes

Rule 5.2.1, page 38

What’s changed: the wording has been updated so that the clause covering disciplinary sanctions if members or their connections are found to be riding or parking bikes in an unsafe manner, which includes following a horse cross-country.

FEI eventing rule changes 2026

Flag penalties

Article 548.1, page 73

What’s changed: penalties for missing a flag across country have been reduced from 15 to nine.

Dressage scoring

Article 544.1.2, page 59

What’s changed: at higher level events and four-star championships, previously only marks for flying changes could be reviewed and altered when there was a difference of three points or more between judges. This has now been expanded to include halts, rein-backs and walk pirouettes.

Blood rules

Article 526.4, page 44

What’s changed: the rules around blood on the horse in the showjumping phase have been rewritten to bring them in line with the new blood rules in pure showjumping. In short, previously all horses with blood on the flanks or bleeding in the mouth were eliminated. This has been replaced with wording stating that any blood on the horse caused by the tack, equipment or athlete results in a recorded warning.

These will be issued by the ground jury in minor cases after providing the rider with the opportunity to have a hearing. There is still provision for stronger penalties where warranted as cases indicating abuse can be dealt with under that rule and in all cases of blood, the horse can only continue in the competition if the ground jury, in consultation with the veterinary delegate deems the horse fit to compete.

Whip rules and sanctions

Article 525.2, page 22; article 526.1.3, page 45; annex 1, page 87

What’s changed: the wording around use of the whip has been tweaked and separated by sanction type in terms of what offences lead to a recording warning and what to a yellow card. There is also new wording stating the whip is “not to be used to discipline the horse”.

A new Annex 1 has also been introduced “presenting all eventing sanctions in a single table for easier overview and comparison”.

Horses acting as schoolmasters

Article 504.2.1, page 19

What’s changed: previously, horses that had achieved minimum eligibility requirements (MERs) at World Championships, Olympic Games, or CCI5*s could not compete in one or two-star events in the same or following year. This has been removed “to support the development of less experienced athletes and allow experienced horses to act as schoolmasters”.

In addition, horses at junior championships now cannot have obtained an MER in World Championships, Olympic Games, or CCI5* in the current year, whereas previously it was the preceding or current year.

Dress and kit mistakes in dressage

Article 544.2.1, page 59

What’s changed: there is some new wording around “technical faults” in dressage, which includes that if a rider starts their test with a whip, boots or bandages on the horse’s legs or with discrepancy in dress (for example, no gloves), “the judge at C stops the athlete and, if needed and possible, an assistant may enter the arena to remove the item(s). The athlete then continues the test from the movement where they were stopped. The marks given before they were stopped are not changed.”

The implication seems to be that this will be penalised with two penalties rather than elimination – we have asked the FEI for clarification on this and whether it’s a change from previous rules.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

10 competition legal whips in a variety of styles for every discipline

Franchesca Slack — Mon, 02 Feb 2026 14:41:04 +0000

If you carry a whip for jumping, you’ll need to get your hands on a competition legal whip ahead of the season. Now that the majority of governing bodies require riders to carry a baton-style whip, it’s not as simple as finding one that catches your eye – it needs to conform to the rules. We’ve rounded up a selection of competition legal whips that are suitable for a range of disciplines in this guide.

British Show Pony Society (BSPS) are the latest body to bring in the rule that only baton whips will be permitted in certain classes. This rule already stands in British Showjumping, British Eventing, Pony Club and British Riding Club competitions. Each whip in this guide is listed with the length options so that you can ensure it’s legal for your discipline.

Competition legal whips: what are your options?

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Woof Wear Stealth Jump Bat

This smart jump bat features a compression tested foam strike pad with a branded gun metal end cap. Smart enough for use in the show ring.

Colours:: Black, chocolate, grey or navy | Length:: 60cm

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Shires ProCush Showjumping Whip

This whip has a shock absorbing padded end and a rubber grip handle that provides a secure and comfortable grip.

Colours:: Red/black, pink/blue or black | Length:: 63cm

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

LeMieux Pro Baton Whip

This whip has a shock-absorbing gel pad that is covered in suede for a sleek look and a generous, comfortable grip. The 50cm size is perfect for junior riders or those who prefer a shorter whip.

Colours:: Black or navy | Length:: 60cm (adult) or 50cm (junior)

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

KM Elite Cush Grip Jump Bat Whip

Available in three sizes this whip has a cushioned handle and is available in a selection of colours. If have have small hands or struggle with holding the reins and a padded whip look out for the Slimline jump bat it has a slimmer handle making it easier to hold.

Colours:: Black, white, green, red, blue or purple | Lengths:: 65cm (standard), 60cm (slimline) or 50cm (junior)

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Woof Wear Jump Bat Full Grip

This bat is available in three sizes and has a TPR rubber grip and a metallic spiral on the shaft and padded shock absorbing end. If you have small hands and find some whips too bulky you may be better off with the slim grip bat from Woof Wear the handle is less bulky.

Colours:: Black | Lengths:: 65cm (full), 60cm (slim) or 50cm (junior)

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Fleck Delta Pro Jockey Bat

The Delta Pro Jockey Bat from Fleck is a classic bat handmade by experts to the highest standards from the finest materials. The Delta Pro Jockey Bat from Fleck is designed with a fibreglass core, long soft cushion flap and a Delta Pro textured grip. The slim ergonomically shaped and unbeatable grip is designed in a triangular shape to enable optimum hold and handling.

Colours:: Black or blue | Length:: 60cm

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Elico Crystal Jumping Whip

This is a great budget friendly whip with a rubber handle and diamanté braiding on the shaft.

Colours:: Black | Length:: 50cm

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Coldstream Next Generation Hadden Jumping Bat

This comfortable and colour coordinated grip handle is easy to hold with a shock absorbing pad. Available in two sizes.

Colours:: Black, grey, navy or burgundy | Length:: 50cm or 66cm

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

LeMieux LeBaton Whip

A stylish whip with a shock absorbing gel end pad covered with soft PU leather. Featuring a generous grooved rubber grip handle.

Colours:: Black, burgundy, grey or navy | Length:: 57cm

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Woof Wear Resolute Jump Bat

This bat is specifically designed to provide a tactile no-compromise grip. Features a compression-tested foam strike area. Finished with a sleek silver metal end cap.

Colours:: Grey/silver, navy/silver or black/silver | Length:: 60cm

What are the BE/BS whip rules?

British Showjumping bought in the padded baton rule in 2020 and state that “no rider may carry, use or permit to be used a whip other than those detailed below in the arena, the collecting ring or anywhere on or in the immediate vicinity of the showground”.

British Eventing state that, when jumping, riders can carry one whip that complies with the details below.

Whips must comply with the following rules:

Whips must be no less than 45cm and no more than 70cm (for BS) or 75cm (for BE) in length
There must be no binding within 17cm of the end of the pad
The minimum diameter of the shaft, which must run through the entirety of the whip, is 1cm
The overall weight of the whip must not exceed 160g and must be evenly distributed throughout the length of the whip
The contact area, which is considered to be 2/5 of the overall length, must be covered with a pad
The pad must be smooth, with no protrusion or raised surface (such as embellishment or embroidery)
The pad must be made of shock-absorbing material throughout its circumference, giving a compression factor of at least 6mm
There must not feature wording, advertising or personalisation

What are the BSPS whip rules?

In 2026, the British Show Pony Society announced a change to its whip rules for working hunter and working sports pony classes. Under the new rules, the maximum length of baton allowed is 75cm.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Governing body moves from six-month to annual flu vaccinations

Becky Murray — Sat, 20 Dec 2025 11:25:45 +0000

Horses and ponies competing in British Eventing (BE) national competitions next year will no longer need to have a six-monthly flu vaccination, as the organisation moves back to annual boosters.

On 15 December BE announced that six-monthly vaccinations would no longer be required from 1 January 2026. The move brings BE in line with other British governing bodies including British Showjumping (BS), British Dressage (BD) and British Riding Clubs, which all require 12-month boosters.

“The decision to move to annual vaccinations for national competitions followed careful discussion with our owners and riders, alongside guidance from our veterinary team,” BE chief executive Rosie Williams told H&H.

“We also reviewed approaches taken by other governing bodies, including BD and BS, to ensure our rules remain appropriate, consistent and evidence-led. Horse welfare remains at the heart of everything we do, and this change reflects a balanced approach that supports both equine health and our members.”

The 2026 eventing season begins on the weekend of 7-8 March at Poplar Park. BE members have been reminded that regular vaccination checks will take place at events, and sanctions may apply if vaccination records are not compliant.

“Please ensure your horse’s vaccination record is up to date before competing,” said a BE spokesperson.

For those competing in international competitions and/or stabling in FEI stables, six-monthly vaccinations still apply under FEI rules; a booster must have been given no more than six months and 21 days prior to competing. A vaccination should not have been given within seven days of the competition or entry into FEI stables.

In February 2019 BE was among the governing bodies to implement six-monthly vaccinations during a major UK equine flu outbreak which led to the cancellation of some competitions and racing fixtures. At the time the Animal Health Trust reported a new strain of flu had caused the outbreak, which continued to cause problems throughout the year.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

New national championships for young riders unites competition, community and friendship

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 16:44:45 +0000

Britain’s best young eventers have a new championship to aim for – one that “brings competition, education, community and celebration together in one inspiring summer showcase”.

British Eventing (BE) has announced that its Festival of Youth will run annually at Bishop Burton College from 2026 to 2031, and the aim is for it to be the “flagship destination for every rider under 21”.

“The Festival of Youth will bring the nation’s most talented young eventers together for a week of top-level sport and unforgettable experiences on and off the field,” a BE spokesperson said. “While the competition will always be the anchor, we are equally committed to creating a genuine sense of community, friendship, education – both equine and human – and a team spirit that runs right through the championships.”

BE chief executive Rosie Williams said the organisation has listened to what young members and their families said they wanted.

“The Festival of Youth isn’t just a championship – it’s an experience,” she said. “It’s about creating a place where young riders feel part of something bigger, where they can compete, learn, connect and celebrate everything they love about our sport.”

The Pony Club will “play a key role” in the sporting programme, “strengthening the pathway between Pony Club eventing and British Eventing”.

The festival will include the Pony Club open championship, and a BE v Pony Club friendly team competition.

Pony Club chief executive Marcus Capel said: “The Festival of Youth is an exciting and natural step in strengthening the pathway for young riders. The Pony Club is proud to be working alongside British Eventing to create an environment that champions education, teamwork and enjoyment alongside high-quality sport.

“By bringing our members into a festival that celebrates both performance and personal development, we are helping young people build confidence, skills and lifelong friendships, while supporting their progression, whatever their future ambitions within eventing may be.”

Classes at the festival will be:

National junior championship, CCIJ2*-S
National pony championship, CCIP2*-S
Regional team championship, CCIJ2*-S
Regional team championships, 100L
U18 90L
U21 CCI2*-S
U21 100L
British Eventing/the Pony Club 100 national friendly team competition
The Pony Club open championship

BE head of youth Darrell Scaife said: “The festival will be a place where riders can compete at their best while also enjoying everything that makes eventing special: the friendships, the atmosphere, the learning and the sense of belonging.

“We’re proud to work with Bishop Burton College to create an environment that supports not just performance, but the whole young rider and their family.”

Details including the schedule and entry details are to be announced “in due course”.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You shall go to Badminton! British Eventing opens up more spots for grassroots championships

Lucy Elder — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 13:53:39 +0000

More grassroots eventers will have the chance to ride on Badminton’s hallowed turf in 2026.

Qualification has been extended for the 2026 British Eventing LeMieux BE90 & BE100 Grassroots Championships – and riders are urged to check if they have now made the cut.

“We’re delighted to broaden the qualification pathway,” said British Eventing (BE) chief executive Rosie Williams.

“[This opens] the door for even more combinations wishing to experience the thrill and excitement of the British Eventing LeMieux BE90 & BE100 Grassroots championships at the iconic venue of Badminton.

“A lifelong ambition for many, these championships are the pinnacle for many grassroots riders, and we can’t wait to see the event come to life in 2026.”

The qualification criteria are now as follows:

British Eventing LeMieux BE90 Grassroots Championships

Top 12% BE90 Regional Championships
Top 20% of BE90 Scottish Championships
Top 12% BE903DE 2025
Eligible combinations from the top 10 of the BE90 opposition beaten percentage (OBP) league, who have not already qualified.

British Eventing LeMieux BE100 Grassroots Championships

Top 30% BE100 Regional Championships
Top 20% of BE100 Scottish Championships
Top 20% BE1003DE 2025
Eligible combinations from the top 10 of BE100 OBP League, who have not already qualified

Riders can check if they have qualified at www.eventingcheck.co.uk and view the OBP leagues on the BE stats centre at https://bestats.equiratings.com/

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

British Eventing launches 2026 calendar ‘built with member input at the heart’

Lucy Elder — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 18:29:31 +0000

The British Eventing (BE) 2026 national calendar and Britain’s international eventing fixtures list for the next five years were revealed today (8 December), featuring a sprinkling of new fixtures, tweaks and farewells as the organisation looks at “the much bigger picture”.

Waverton House in Gloucestershire will be a new addition to the British Eventing calendar next season, Pontispool in Somerset will return to BE’s fixture list for the first time since 2022. Both venues have held unaffiliated events in recent years and feature on the 2026 Cotswold Cup calendar.

Badminton Horse Trials is also returning to its usual week of 6 to 10 May, following two years in a later slot, and Belsay has been awarded Chatsworth’s international fixture.

Catton Park International, Derbyshire, has been cancelled, Horseheath does not feature in the calendar, and Launceston is also not on the cards as the venue has been sold – Launceston’s fixture is replaced by Kingston Maurward.

Bishop Burton (2) will not run in 2026, Calmsden is taking a farming break, and Munstead (1) is also on a planned break. Tweseldown is stepping in to take the Munstead (1) fixture for one year.

“Every single date is part of a much bigger picture,” said BE chief executive Rosie Williams.

“It’s not just about putting events in a diary, it’s about mapping out qualification pathways for riders from BE80 all the way through to CCI5*, and aligning them with international calendars, Olympic cycles and performance plans.”

She added: “When you zoom out, this isn’t just about one event or one date.

“It’s about how we keep the whole sport moving forward. For 2026, we’re bringing in a number of really positive updates across the BE fixtures calendar – new events, returning unaffiliated fixtures and a programme shaped by what our riders told us they wanted.

“Thanks to the insight from our member fixtures panels, this year’s calendar is more responsive and built with member input at the heart of it.”

In 2025, the number of runs increased by 3% year on year, and there was particularly strong growth from BE90 to BE105.

A BE spokesperson said: “The FEI international fixtures and national calendars are built through months of detailed planning, collaboration and strategic decision-making.

“Alongside event organisers and national and international governing bodies, British Eventing’s fixtures panel plays a central role in shaping the calendar to ensure it supports the development of horses, riders and the sport as a whole at all levels.”

The spokesperson added that “decisions are made objectively, collectively and with impartiality” and that “independent members, organisers, riders, owners and BE staff contribute their expertise to the decision-making process, ensuring every fixture and date placement is reviewed through a strategic and fair lens”.

“The right events at the right time, and with the right ground, are critical. Course design, time of year and ground conditions can significantly influence performance. This places substantial responsibility on organisers, who must deliver safe, consistent, high-quality sport,” said the spokesperson.

“That responsibility is matched by increasing financial and logistical pressures, hosting a BE event costs thousands of pounds often with no guaranteed profit. Venues on tenanted land face additional constraints, including limited long-term planning and restricted opportunities to host multiple fixtures.”

The spokesperson added that preparation time is another important factor, and that safety infrastructure also adds further complexity.

Ms Williams said: “It’s one of the reasons we need the right team on the ground and enough resources to keep the event flowing safely and efficiently.”

She added that the future of the sport depends on “strategic thinking and close partnership with organisers”, noting rising costs, land-use pressures and logistical challenges.

“Working with venues collaboratively and sustainably is more important than ever,” she said.

View the full 2026 British Eventing calendar [PDF]

2026 to 2031: British international eventing fixtures

(Dates listed refer to 2026, all subject to contract)

Thoresby Park: 3 to 5 April
Burnham Market: 17 to 19 April
Kelsall Hill: 25 to 26 April
Badminton: 7 to 10 May
Belsay: 16 to 17 May
Osberton (1): 22 to 24 May
Bicton Arena (1): 27 to 31 May
Bramham: 11 to 14 June
Alnwick Ford: 24 to 28th June
Aston-le-Walls: 10 to 12 July
Burgham: 30 July to 2 August
Bishop Burton & Festival of Youth: 31 July to 2 August
Hartpury: 13 to 16 August
Frickley Park: 20 to 23 August
Scone Palace: 27 to 30 August
Wellington: 28 to 31 August
Burghley: 3 to 6 September
Cornbury House: 10 to 13 September
Blenheim Palace: 17 to 20 September
South of England: 26 to 27 September
Osberton (2): 1 to 4 October
Little Downham: 7 October
Bicton Arena (2): 23 to 25 October

British Eventing calendar: updates at a glance

Pontispool returns to the calendar at BE80 to 100, and and will also run novice classes on the Monday
Waverton House joins the calendar
Belsay has been awarded the Chatsworth FEI fixture
Lincoln will add a BE90 class, increasing early-season opportunities
Littleton Manor will run a second fixture date to boost regional capacity
South of Scotland will introduce an intermediate class to support progression in the region
Bradwell will add an intermediate class
Osberton International adds a BE90 and CCI1*P for ponies, strengthening both grassroots and youth pathways
Kelsall Hill International will introduce a CCI2*P for ponies
Bicton International adds a CCI3*S and Aston-le-Walls International will incorporate a CCI2*S, following the loss of Nunney International
Breckenbrough returns to its traditional calendar slot
Tetworth Hall will add an intermediate class to its Spring fixture
Kirriemuir moves earlier in the calendar to help balance the distribution of Scottish fixtures
Penrith (1) also moves earlier in the calendar
Bovington shifts to an earlier week to streamline the south west schedule
Badminton returns to its usual week after two years running later
Mendip Plains moves slightly later to improve the flow of the calendar in the area
Little Downham (1) extends its fixture to offset the loss of its June and July dates
Kingston Maurward moves into the former Launceston slot, maintaining south west provision
Penrith (2) moves significantly earlier to improve the northern mid-season spread
Dauntsey will add Monday cross-country to offer riders from Burgham an opportunity to run at novice and intermediate
Blindley Heath Regional Championships moves earlier for 2026, only due to organisational pressures
Howick (2) moves later to support regional balance
Little Downham International shifts forward to avoid a clash with Boekelo CCI4*L (NED)
Horseheath will be coming out of the calendar
Munstead (1) takes a planned break, with Tweseldown stepping in for one year only
Calmsden is also taking a farming break
Launceston leaves the calendar due to sale of the venue with its slot taken by Kingston Maurward
Catton Park International has been cancelled and will not be replaced
Bishop Burton (2) will not run in 2026
To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

New league to give top amateur event riders ‘the recognition they deserve’

Lucy Elder — Sat, 06 Dec 2025 11:17:35 +0000

A new series for amateur event riders will launch for the 2026 season to give consistent top performers “the recognition they deserve”.

The Baileys Amateur Rider Series will celebrate the UK’s most competitive and consistent amateur athletes in British Eventing (BE), running across BE100, BE105, novice and intermediate.

A dedicated leaderboard will sit within the BE stats centre, powered by EquiRatings, to track performances. The top 10 riders at the end of the season will receive Baileys prizes, and there will also be monthly highlights and rewards for stand-out performers.

Monthly leaderboard updates will be published from March to October and a full end-of-season report shared in November.

The series is part of the long-term partnership between BE and Baileys, which has been extended for a further three years.

“We are proud to renew our partnership with Baileys Horse Feeds which has supported the sport for more than 20 years – and delighted to introduce the Baileys Amateur Rider Series,” said Jenny Clark, BE’s head of commercial, marketing and communications.

“This initiative gives our amateur riders the recognition they deserve, supported by data insight and meaningful rewards. We’re excited to work with Baileys to deliver a season-long celebration of grassroots excellence.”

BE, in partnership with EquiRatings, will classify amateur eligibility using an automated system based on competition history. This will include: the number of horses competed in the current/previous season; no completion at advanced or four-star in the preceding two seasons; no completion at five-star in the preceding five seasons.

“This ensures the series remains inclusive, fair and true to the amateur ethos, while avoiding complex declarations or manual verification,” said a BE spokesperson.

“This series responds directly to feedback from amateur riders, who tell us that greater recognition, structured progression, and clear celebration of their achievements would be a great motivator.”

Jane Buchan, marketing manager at Baileys Horse Feeds, said: “As long-term supporters of British Eventing, we are thrilled not only to renew our partnership but to champion amateur riders through this exciting new series.

“Equine nutrition plays an important role at every level of the sport, and we are committed to supporting riders with practical advice and accessible, science-led information.

“Celebrating the passion and determination of the amateur community is so important and, as a keen amateur myself, I’ll be avidly following the league and its contenders throughout the season!”

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Your complete guide to British Eventing’s two arena eventing series this winter

Pippa Roome — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 14:12:07 +0000

British Eventing has two arena eventing series running through the winter of 2025/2026, the Bates Saddles Arena Eventing competitions and the Harry Hall One Club – Anyone Can Event (ACE) series.

The two types of events have slightly different formats and each builds to its own championships. Read on for the full lowdown on each competition and then check out our arena eventing tips…

What is arena eventing?

As a general rule, arena eventing encompasses any competition that takes place in an arena, rather than over a full cross-country course, but which has elements of cross-country, as well as some showjumps. Some arena eventing takes place in all-weather arenas and other competitions are on grass.

There is no standard set of rules or format for arena eventing competitions, with different events run and judged in different ways.

The governing body for affiliated eventing in Britain, British Eventing (BE), has two arena eventing series running through this winter – slightly confusingly, one is actually called Arena Eventing and the other is called Anyone Can Event (ACE). Venues also run their own unaffiliated arena eventing competitions.

Southerly Roberts riding Tinx at the final of one of British Eventing’s previous arena eventing series, JAS (Jumping and Style), at Hartpury College. (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Bates Saddles Arena Eventing

Format

Classes run at 80, 90 and 100cm, with championships at the same level, plus there is a 1000pen class at the championships.

Riders jump eight to 10 showjumps, immediately followed by 10 to 12 solid cross-country fences, including a water obstacle, which may be a water tray. The course finishes with a showjump joker fence, which is about 10cm higher than the rest of the course.

Penalties are incurred in line with regular BE competitions, so four faults for a showjump down or a first refusal in that phase and 20 penalties for a refusal on the cross-country. Six penalties are given for knocking down the joker.

The winner is the competitor with the lowest number of penalties and in the event of a tie, the competitor who is closest to the optimum time has the advantage.

The highest-placed competitors in each qualifier class go through to the final, with the exact number depending on the number of starters.

What to wear arena eventing

Competitors must wear kit meeting the BE rules for cross-country. Stopwatches are not allowed.

When are the competitions?

The events take place between 8 November 2025 and 20 February 2026, with 54 fixtures scheduled at a wide variety of venues.

The final is at Aston-le-Walls in Northamptonshire, from 28 February to 1 March.

How much does Bates Saddles Arena Eventing cost?

Entry fees vary from venue to venue – for example, at the first four events of the season, the cost per class ranges from £19.50 to £48.

Who can take part?

Qualifiers are open to BE members and non-members. Riders must in their 12th birth year or older and horses must be at least five years old. Horses and ponies taking part must be at least 132cm for the 80cm and 90cm classes and at least 142cm for the 100cm classes.

At the championships, riders must be BE members and horses will need a free BE registration. Grade four horses, including downgraded horses, can compete in any class at the championship and horses with foundation points can enter any class. Horses above grade four – those who have BE points earned at novice or above – can only enter the 100open championship.

Riders who have completed an advanced, three-star, four-star or five-star in the current or two previous seasons may only take part in the 100open class at the championships.

Where to find more information

The Arena Eventing page of the BE website has all the dates, links to enter and more.

Nicki Grayson rides Rainstown Michael at a previous BE Arena Eventing Championships at Dallas Burston Polo Club (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Harry Hall One Club – Anyone Can Event (ACE)

Format

Classes are held at 60cm, 70cm, 80cm, 90cm and 100cm level. Combinations tackle six to eight showjumps and then eight to 10 simulated, knock-down cross-country fences, including a skinny and a corner.

Riders incur penalties matching those given for showjumping at regular BE competitions, so four faults for a knockdown or first refusal. The winners are the pair with the fewest penalties, with those on equal penalties split according to who is closest to the optimum time.

The top pairs in each class qualify for the final, with the number of qualifiers dependant on the number of starters.

Classes are split into under-18s and seniors or if amalgamated, BE will split the results and give qualifications as if it was too classes, if the venue supplies BE with the riders’ age categories.

In Scotland, classes are not split into under-18s and seniors. The top five in each height section at qualifiers qualify for the Scottish ACE Championships. In addition, the best-placed riders at Scottish qualifiers are invited to the championships at Aintree, in line with usual ACE rules.

There are also 110cm and 120cm classes at the Scottish Championships. There are no qualifiers for these – they are direct entry classes.

To enter the 110cm, riders must in the year of their 12th birthday and if in the year of their 12th or 13th birthday, they must have two minimum eligibility results at BE100 with their mount. To enter the 120cm class, the horse and rider combination must have completed three BE novice competitions with a clear cross- country.

What to wear to an ACE event

The rules say that at the championships, cross-country kit including body protectors and protective headwear to current guidelines must be worn. Stopwatches are not permitted.

No clothing guidance is given for the qualifiers in the rules, but cross-country kit, including body protectors and protective headwear to current guidelines, is usually standard for arena eventing. In addition, do check individual schedules to see if the venue specifies what to wear.

When are the competitions?

There are 87 qualifier across England, Scotland and Wales, running from 1 November 2025 to 10 May 2026.

The Harry Hall One Club ACE Championships will be held at Aintree Equestrian Centre, Liverpool, from 28-31 May 2026.

The BE Scotland ACE Championships run at the Scottish National Equestrian Centre, West Lothian, on 29 March 2026.

How much does Harry Hall One Club ACE cost?

Entry fees are set by individual venues – a glance at some upcoming fixtures shows prices from £14 to £30 per class.

Who can take part?

BE members and non-members can contest qualifiers, but everyone must be a BE member to be eligible for the championships. Riders must be 10 years old or older.

Horses must be five years old or older and at least 132cm for the 60cm, 70cm, 80cm and 90cm classes and 142cm for the 100cm. There are no restrictions in terms of horses’ experience – horses of any grade can contest the ACE championship classes.

Where to find more information

Check out the ACE page on the BE website.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

New £100,000 fundraising initiative launched in a mission to train British Eventing officials

Gemma Redrup — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 13:47:52 +0000

A new initiative was launched at the 2025 Defender Burghley Horse Trials in the form of the British Eventing Training Foundation (BETF).

It aims to raise £100,000 in 12 months to “transform the training and development of eventing officials” .

The campaign puts the spotlight on the role of trained officials such as technical advisors, ground jury members, stewards and starters, whose expertise ensures the safety, fairness, and integrity of the sport at every level.

Pippa Funnell, a British Eventing board member, was present at the launch and said: “British Eventing is proud to rely on a passionate and experienced community of volunteer officials. Now, there’s a vital opportunity to build on that foundation by modernising training, improving consistency and experience and creating a clear, supportive pathway for the next generation.”

The money raised will directly fund a modern, centralised officials’ training platform with online modules, practical workshops and clear progression pathways, plus resources to ensure FEI-aligned standards, improving consistency and international recognition.

In addition it promises to invest in succession planning and talent development to build a pipeline of future officials and a sustainable digital infrastructure to reduce long-term costs and dependence on ad hoc systems. Finally it will recruit new officials into the sport.

BETF chair Sian Rodway added: “The sport of eventing is entering an exciting new chapter. Officials aren’t just important – they’re indispensable. By acting now to professionalise training and build a sustainable framework, we can protect the future of eventing for years to come.”

To find out more or to support the campaign, visit the BE fundraising page.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout Burghley and other major shows this year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website, from £1 a week. Horse & Hound’s 20-page magazine report on Burghley is published in the 11 September issue, including full analysis and exclusive comment from six-time Burghley winner William Fox-Pitt.

Mark Phillips: ‘Has the decline in British Eventing membership turned a corner?’

Mark Phillips — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 09:27:58 +0000

Mark Phillips on the latest course design news from LA 2028, developments on the national scene and a fitness race against time for one top rider who is out of action after a fall from his bike

Olympic course-designer Alec Lochore is now back in the UK after his five-day visit to the 2028 Games venue at Santa Anita, California, where he was joined by course advisor Mike Etherington-Smith for a couple of days. Both are now feeling good about the possibility of producing a circa 5,000-metre track for the Los Angeles Games.

As ever, there are many i’s to be dotted and t’s to be crossed, but the people at Santa Anita were very positive in their attitude and have agreed in principle to the groundworks to be done on the hill to the side of the racetrack, which will provide some terrain, and that the course will be crossing the car park.

All being well, Alec will return to Los Angeles to move the programme forward in October.

Fundraising and facebook

These are different times at British Eventing (BE) and I’m definitely feeling my age. Recently BE advertised for people to serve on the fixtures committee, whereas previously people with the perceived expertise have been invited.

Seventeen people responded, two of whom were organisers, so were immediately discounted because of potential conflict of interest. This number is now down to six, who are being interviewed this week. The first job of the selected appointees will be to try to determine the 2026 domestic calendar, which will hopefully be published in November.

The 2026 international fixtures will be published shortly, when the respective organisers have signed and returned their heads of terms.

I was interested to read about the fundraising effort at Defender Burghley Horse Trials for the BE Training Foundation, with a Q&A session with Pippa Funnell and Lucinda Green and a course walk with Alec.

The foundation has been jump-started with a £80,000 donation by David Howden and is currently being used primarily for grassroots coaching around the country.

The Burghley fundraiser is an effort to extend the scope of the foundation into continuing education for officials, which has been non-existent for many years now because of BE’s financial woes, and then to extend it into “modernised learning pathways” and a “digital learning platform”, which I confess means little to an old-fashioned official like me!

Further plans for an outreach campaign to maybe attract new officials from different areas and an effort to align British training and standards with FEI best practice are to be commended. However, I’m unclear about who is going to create and implement all this. Let’s hope the fundraising goes well at Burghley!

The periodic emails from the BE marketing department are nothing if not enthusiastic. They don’t do much for me, old age striking again, but seem to be well received in the big world, where BE Facebook and Instagram views now number over three million a month and TikTok followers are growing, too.

In recent years, BE membership has fallen by 10% every year, but this year membership is down 6%. Maybe the decline has bottomed out or maybe BE has turned a corner – time will tell.

Let’s stick to horses…

This seems to be the summer for biking accidents! Harry Meade had a fall, punctured a lung, broke three ribs and damaged his shoulder. Helen West hit an irrigation pipe, has a black eye and multiple scrapes.

Harry’s accident three weeks ago has obviously hindered his preparations for Burghley and the Agria Blenheim Europeans. However, Laura Tomlinson and Lewis Robertson-Carrier are helping keep his horses going on the flat and Grant Wilson with the jumping, and he has excellent support for his rehab from the World Class team.

Fingers crossed he can be fit in time for the big autumn events.

● What equestrian organisations or personalities do you enjoy following on social media and why? Write to 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

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major events throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Disappointment as hard ground and low entries cause havoc for events

Becky Murray — Thu, 29 May 2025 16:52:49 +0000

Hard ground and low entries have been blamed for the cancellation of a number of spring competitions.

British Eventing (BE) fixtures Ascott under Wychwood (2) (31 May to 1 June), Nunney International (13-15 June), and Catton Park International (14-15 June) have all been cancelled, as have the British Showjumping (BS) classes at the Rutland Show (1 June).

Ascott under Wychwood organisers said they did not have enough entries to make it financially viable to “prepare the site and run the event to the standard we want” and this was the case even if they dropped down to one day. Ascott’s first fixture ran on 12-14 April.

“We never take these decisions lightly and always try our utmost to provide the best courses and going within our power,” said a statement from the team, adding that the event’s going was measured earlier this year by Mark Lucey, a retired vet and former member of BE’s risk management committee earlier this year.

“With next to no rain since February the gods this year have gone against us in the opposite direction to last year. Our going was measured by Mark earlier this year as ‘good’ which was obtained by relentless work. We do not have the ability to water as there are no water sources at the top of a hill, so this is never an option for us.”

Nunney International was due to run classes from BE100 to CCI3*-S level. The event’s committee said after “much deliberation, and budget reviews” they were disappointed to cancel because of insufficient entries.

Catton Park was forced to abandon its 2024 fixture owing to wet weather – this year’s has been cancelled owing to insufficient entries.

BEDE Events’ Stuart Buntine, Catton Park event director, said it was a “very difficult decision”.

“We very much wanted to make Catton Park a summer showcase event, with revised layout and new features. Like in 2024 the weather is not something we can control, and it is slightly incomprehensible that last year we had to abandon due to extreme wet and this year we are cancelling due to reduced entry numbers that are being seen across the country due to the continued lack of rain and concern over hard ground,” he said.

“Like many events we’re grateful to British Eventing for the complimentary use of the Aggravator and Equivator that helps us prepare the ground to the highest standards. These machines will be in use at BE fixture Berkshire College of Agriculture (7-8 June), which despite its lower entries than we had hoped for, will run as planned due to the permanent facilities and different model of operation.”

Mr Buntine thanked competitors and owners who had made their entry before the Catton ballot date.

“This is such an important date for all organisers as it helps us make these financial decisions. It enables us to push the green light and crack on with the extensive event preparations, or it helps us make those difficult decisions to pull an event and mitigate financial disaster, which ultimately helps to safeguard eventing venues for the future,” he said, adding that he wants to assure those entered for Berkshire College of Agriculture (BCA) that this event is going ahead.

“We are currently slightly below where we would like to be in terms of entry numbers,” he said. “However, in previous years we have added over 200 entries post-ballot. Entries will remain open until classes/sections are filled. Fence preparation is already well under way, and we do benefit from several permanent facilities at BCA.”

BE chief executive Rosie Williams said BE is “closely monitoring entries and working proactively with organisers to ensure everything is in place for successful and enjoyable events”.

“However, timing is crucial. Once organisers reach a certain stage in their preparations, they begin to incur significant costs – ranging from laying out courses to arranging tents, toilets and catering. At this point, they need confidence that these costs will be covered, and for most, that assurance comes from the volume of entries,” she said.

“So far this year, entry numbers have been very encouraging, and while some areas of the ground are firm, overall conditions are excellent. We are continuing to do everything we can to provide the best possible footing. Ultimately, though, it is up to our members to support events by getting their entries in on time and help us keep the geographical spread of brilliant events we have.”

BS had been due to run at the Rutland Show on Sunday but this has been called off over ground concerns.

“Due to the prolonged dry weather and no rainfall for over eight weeks, the ground conditions have been assessed as too dangerous for jumping. The safety of horses and riders is our top priority,” said a statement from the show.

“We’re incredibly grateful for your understanding and support, and we look forward to welcoming you back for next year’s show on 31 May 2026.”

Refunds for all the above events are being processed.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Andrew Nicholson: ‘Where’s the progression and aspiration that was once central to eventing?’

Andrew Nicholson — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 10:35:40 +0000

Andrew Nicholson on hopes for 2025 and the sport’s new grassroots format

It’s the start of a new eventing season, and many of the professional riders were out competing last weekend. I always liked to get going at the very beginning of the year as March can often be a good month weather-wise, whereas the proverbial showers in April make cancellations likely.

I have three young horses starting their careers at BE100 and one intermediate, so I’ll be out and about a bit – it keeps me busy!

I’ve got a young French eventer based here who is hoping to ride at four-star; he rides very well. And my very first French rider pupil, Cedric Lyard, is now a coach for the French team. He came here for two years, then rode for France at the top level. I’m very proud of him.

Positive vibes

I was asked what I hope for in the sport this year. I think having the European Championships at Blenheim in September will be good for eventing. With Mark Phillips designing the course, it should produce a result in which cross-country will be a major factor. Blenheim is the ideal place to use the terrain to make the time difficult to get.

Mark has been the advisor to designer David Evans there for a few years – he knows it well and I imagine he will make it fair but quite difficult, which will be a good reminder for European riders of the central importance of the cross-country phase.

With the dressage and showjumping taking place on grass, it should be a proper, British-style championship. And there are enough strong European nations and good combinations to press the Brits for the gold medals.

On the national side of things, I’d like to see something being done to halt the number of good events falling by the wayside. The desire to hold horse trials in venues that aren’t already equestrian centres needs to be reignited.

It’s good, therefore, to hear positive vibes about Scone Palace, which is replacing Blair as Scotland’s major event. I know that horse trials have been run at Scone in the past, so it has some history.

The combination of Alec Lochore as event organiser and course-designer and the marketing, infrastructure and knowledge of ground from the Perth Racecourse team on-site should combine together well.

The advantages of the racecourse facilities – permanent stabling, hospitality structures and other facilities – right next door to the big, open park bowl with the palace on one side and the River Tay on the other make it an exciting place to stage an event.

Lack of progression

British Eventing’s new idea of “XC+” where riders can choose to do two out of the three phases of eventing is, I think, absurd and just shows how frightened the organisation is of losing more of its lower-level membership.

The press release said it would “save valuable time” – will it? How? Once you’re there at an event, you’re there. In Europe, you usually do just one phase a day over three days, but in Britain we traditionally do everything in a single day. Is another hour going to make that much difference to what is nearly always a day’s commitment?

Presumably everyone doing it will skip their weakest phase. How’s that going to improve your riding, your experience, your horse’s way of going – the things that the three phases of eventing are there to test?

This won’t be a popular opinion, but I personally believe that British Eventing has put far too many of its eggs in the grassroots market and has neglected the upper levels. As far as I can tell, there are fewer advanced and intermediate horses, while the BE100 and below classes are chock-a-block.

Where’s the progression and aspiration that was once so central to the spirit of the sport? There’s no problem with anyone not wanting to jump bigger jumps – but that’s what the unaffiliated world is for, surely? Why is the national governing body of our Olympic sport so involved?

● What do you think about British Eventing’s new XC+ concept? Write to hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and country, for the chance for your letter to appear in a forthcoming issue of the magazine

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major events throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Want to start affiliated eventing? Here’s what you need to know…

Gemma Redrup — Sat, 22 Feb 2025 08:30:00 +0000

Are you considering competing with British Eventing this season? If so, don’t miss this useful guide on how to get started in affiliated eventing, including what you can expect at a British Eventing one-day event.

How to start eventing: the basics

British Eventing (BE) is the governing body of eventing in Britain – all affiliated competitions are run through them.

How much does eventing cost?

There are a range of membership options available. Full individual membership starts from £85 for those competing up to and including BE90 level, £140 for those competing up to and including intermediate novice level and £300 for all levels.

Horse registration starts at £50 for half a season (1 July onwards) for a horse with no BE points or £74 for the full year. Prices increase as horses move up the levels. There is also a Pay As You Go option. In addition to your membership, there are entry fees and start fees to be paid for each competition.

Why affiliate?

There is a certain guaranteed standard of competition and high-quality technical and medical back-up. All phases should start on time with the event running smoothly, with the sport aimed at encouraging competitors, while not overfacing them.

What age can you start affiliated eventing?

Riders must be in the year they turn 12 or older to compete with BE. Horses must be at least five years old, although four-year-olds will be allowed to compete up to four times in a combination of BE80 and/or BE90 classes from 1 July each year.

How big does a horse have to be to do BE?

To compete at BE80 and BE90 level, horses must be at least 132cm. Horses competing in all other national classes under BE rules must be at least 142cm.

What to expect at an affiliated event

Some of the potential differences to unaffiliated competition that you should be aware of if you want to get started in affiliated eventing are:

Start fees: on top of your entry, you will have to pay a start fee (refundable if you do not start the dressage). The cost depends on the level you’re riding at and the money goes back into the event, paying for medical cover and course improvements.
Optimum time: penalties are awarded if you exceed the optimum time across country and likewise if you finish more than 15 seconds under the optimum. Stopwatches can be worn by competitors at all levels.
Balloting: if the class is over-subscribed, you may be “balloted out” and your entry rejected. Each horse with a season or half-season ticket is given a set number of priority passes for each season, which you can use to try to avoid being balloted from events where you really want to compete. Some events may use a different system to balloting such as first come, first served – look at the event’s page on the BE website to check.

Pay As You Go membership

Pay As You Go (PAYG) membership is ideal for those trying eventing for the first time, those exploring stepping up to the next level and those who only want to compete a few times per year. PAYG enables you to compete at BE80 regional championships, but not at these championships at BE90 or BE100.

The PAYG option is available for rider memberships, horse season tickets and owner memberships. You pay a one-off membership fee of £40 for each category you wish to PAYG. So, if you want you and your horse to compete on the PAYG system, it would be £40 for your membership and £40 for your horse to hold a PAYG season ticket.

Once you have a PAYG membership you will be able to make your entries. For any entry where a PAYG membership is held – either by the rider, the horse, the owner, or a combination of these – you will be charged an additional £10 run fee on top of your entry. This applies every time you and/or your horse competes. There is no limit to the number of times you may compete using this membership option.

GO BE classes

GO BE classes enable riders to take part in a BE affiliated competition, without a BE membership and without a BE published record of the results. The classes are run like all other BE competitions, just with the difference that they are open to all riders from the year of their 12th birthday (non-members will need to complete a free associate registration and horse registration via the website) and results are not published on the BE website.

This format has been developed for competitors who wish to compete with BE but without their results being recorded in the BE database. It is also aimed to appeal to those who wish to try competing with BE for the first time but without the commitment of purchasing membership. Classes are available from 80-100cm and are known as GOBE80, GOBE90 and GOBE100. MERs as per BE100 classes will be required for GOBE100 level, so if the rider in the year of their 12th or 13th birthday, they must have two MERs at BE90 as a combination.

There will be a £10 run fee payable to BE for non-members to compete in GO BE classes.

GO BE summarised:

Anyone can enter, no paid-for BE membership is required, although non-members will need to complete a free associate registration and horse registration via the website and have their own third party insurance
Horses need to comply with BE’s vaccination rules for equine infuenza
Same courses and organising team as national BE classes
Results will be available on eventingscores website, but will not be published as official BE records
Entry fees will be set at the lower limit
No prize money will be awarded
Results will not count for MERs and qualifications

British Eventing XC+

BE XC+ is a new competition introduced by BE in 2025, at BE80 and BE90 level, allowing competitors to take part in the cross-country phase and either the dressage or showjumping. There will be no results or prizes while the competition is in its pilot phase. The classes are open to all BE members, including PAYG members, who have completed a standard class at the same level within the past 12 months, and the entry and start fee are 75% of the fee for a full competition.

Guide to British Eventing levels

BE80(T): for horses with no points. Showjumps are no higher than 0.85m (2ft 8in) and cross-country fences 0.80m (2ft 6in).
BE90: for horses with no points. Showjumps are no higher than 0.95m (3ft 1in) and cross-country fences 0.90m (2ft 11in).
BE100: for horses with no points. Showjumps are a maximum height of 1.05m (3ft 5in) with cross-country jumps 1m (3ft 3in).
Novice: for horses with less than 21 points. Showjumps are a maximum of 1.15m (3ft 9in), cross-country 1.10m (3ft 7in).
Intermediate: for horses with 21-60 points. Showjumps are a maximum of 1.20m (3ft 11in), cross-country 1.15m (3ft 9in).
Advanced: 61 points and above. Showjumps will not exceed 1.30m (4ft 1in) and cross-country 1.20m (3ft 11in).

For further information, you can read more about eventing levels here.

British Eventing foundation points are allocated for wins and placings in classes from BE80(T) to BE100. British Eventing points are introduced at novice level. Horses are graded according to the number of points they have won.

BE90open and BE100open classes also exist to allow riders to compete on schoolmasters, so that less experienced riders don’t have to take on courses they are not ready for. There are also intermediary classes such as BE105, intermediate novice and advanced intermediate, which mix the higher level dressage and showjumping with the lower level cross-country.

Horses can be downgraded and have their points removed to allow them to compete in lower level classes under certain circumstances.

Find out more: if you want to get started in affiliated eventing, visit britisheventing.com

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

What is British Eventing’s new XC+? Your questions answered…

Pippa Roome — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 08:30:38 +0000

Have you heard about British Eventing’s new XC+? The recent announcement that BE was launching a pilot of a concept called XC+ caused plenty of interest and both positive and negative feedback.

But what do these new classes involve? And who can take part? Read on to find out…

What does British Eventing XC+ involve?

XC+ is a shorter format of eventing, allowing participants to take part in two of the three phases of eventing. Everyone taking part in XC+ will do the cross-country phase and it is up to competitors to choose whether they do dressage or showjump.

What levels will XC+ be offered at?

BE80 and BE90.

What events will offer XC+?

XC+ will run alongside standard BE competitions at BE80 and BE90 levels at selected events with sufficient capacity.

Who can enter XC+ classes?

They’re open to all BE members, including pay-as-you-go members, who have completed a standard class at the same level within the past 12 months.

When can you enter and what will it cost?

Members will be able to enter the new classes one week after an event’s ballot date and there will be limited availability during the pilot year. The entry fee and start fee are both 75% of the standard class fee. Competitors will select the class code XC+D or XC+SJ when entering.

What rules will XC+ run under?

The classes will run under standard BE rules for each phase, although the dress code for XC+ is more relaxed – riders can wear their cross-country clothing for both phases or their usual eventing competition clothing.

BE stresses that safety remains paramount and all riders must meet the minimum safety equipment requirements as outlined in the BE handbook.

Will there be results and prizes?

Not currently. BE say there will be no official scoring during the initial trial period, but as the trial progresses, a scoring system will be developed and tested to add a competitive element.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Gearing up for the eventing season? Check out what you need to wear…

Martha Terry — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 08:30:00 +0000

If you’re thinking about entering your first-ever unaffiliated one-day event or you’ve been out of the game a while but have just signed back up with British Eventing (BE), then you might be wondering what to wear for eventing to make sure you’re well prepared for the big day.

Correct dress at competitions depends slightly on the level at which you are competing and whether you’re going affiliated or unaffiliated. If you’ve got an unaffiliated event in mind, their guidelines will be based on the affiliated rules, which you can skip down to read about in full. If you’re heading to an unaffiliated competition, keep reading from here.

What to wear for eventing

Exactly what’s required for each phase is a combination of safety, tradition and rider comfort, however, at lower levels you will wear the same for the dressage and showjumping.

In short, you’ll need the following items, but we’ve got lots more information on the specific rules, including for each discipline and level, below:

riding hat – this should be up to standard and you’ll need a jockey skull for cross-country. (See our guide to the best jockey skulls)
riding boots – you’ll need either long leather boots or short boots teamed with leather gaiters, both in black or brown. (See our guide to the best long boots)
breeches – these were traditionally light in colour, but can now be navy or black, too. (See our guide to the best competition breeches)
show jacket – in any single conservative colour or tweed at lower levels. Some coloured and contrast elements are permitted. (See our guides to the best show jackets and best tweed jackets)
show shirt – long- or short-sleeved with appropriate collar for a stock or tie. (See our guide to the best show shirts)
stock or tie – it’s up to you, but stocks are more common (tradition suggests to wear white with black/navy jacket but coloured with tweed)
gloves – make sure you’ve got good grip, especially for cross-country. (See our guide to the best riding gloves)
base layer – any colour, long sleeves recommended. (See our guide to the best base layers)
body protector – must be BETA level 3 (2018), air jackets optional. (See our guide to the best body protectors)
number bib – it’s best to get some bib numbers, too, in case you need to provide your own
stopwatch – optional, but can be useful

LeMieux Number Bib | Amazon
This bib is available in a selection of colours so that you can display your competition number. It has adjustable side and shoulder straps for a good fit.View Deal

Optimum Time OE Series 3 Event Watch | Amazon
Available in 7 colours, this watch is can be really useful. It comes on an elasticated strap, gives minute beep signals and has a 16mm display with an adjustable viewing angle.View Deal

Other important tips

Stocks should always be tied properly
Long hair should be secured appropriately – tied back and in a hairnet
Competitors are advised to remove jewellery

Hy Hair Nets | Viovet.co.uk
These hair nets are available in two different weights and a range of colours for a smart, discreet look.View Deal

What to wear at an unaffiliated eventing competition

You won’t go wrong if you adhere to the affiliated rulebook, as described below. However, the dress code tends to be more lenient at local unaffiliated shows. Whatever the level of show, you’ll want to be smartly turned out in jacket, breeches and stock or tie for the dressage and showjumping phases. For cross-country, a body protector is mandatory and you can choose your cross-country colours, although long sleeves are recommended.

Your best best is to stick to the list above, and if you want to wear something different – for example, different coloured breeches – contact the show secretary to check that it is permitted. You will also need to find out what sort of bib numbers are required – some shows provide bib numbers, others will ask you to print them out at home.

Two items that are essential whatever the code, are a hat that meets the current riding hat safety standards and a body protector that has the blue BETA Level 3 (2018) label, which shows it meets the current body protector safety standards.

If you wish to wear an inflatable/air jacket, for cross-country it must be worn over a permitted body protector.

What to wear for affiliated eventing

Hats

In a nutshell: For dressage and showjumping, as long as your riding hat is up to standard you can wear any style. For cross-country, however, you’ll need a jockey skull, which you can wear for all three phases if you’d like.

More specifically:

Protective headwear must be worn by anyone mounted at a BE competition, with the harness correctly fastened.
All hats must be tagged with a visible current BE (or Pony Club/British Riding Clubs) tag.

The hat must meet at least one of the following standards:

– British and European: PAS 015 (2011), VG01.040 2014-12 or BS EN1384:2023, all with BSI Kitemark or Inspec IC Mark
– American: ASTM F1163 15 or 23 with SEI Mark or SNELL 2016 or 2021
– Australian and New Zealand: AS/NZS 3838 2006 onwards with SAI Global Mark
Cross-country headwear must have no peak or peak-type extensions. Protuberances above the eyes limited to 5mm max and must be smooth or rounded in nature. A removable hat cover with light flexible peak is permitted.

Spurs

In a nutshell: These are optional at all levels.

More specifically:

Must be smooth metal, blunt and incapable of wounding a horse.
Shank must be no longer than 4cm long and must point to the rear and downwards.
Metal spurs with round plastic, metal or rubber knobs are not permitted.
Rowel spurs are permitted but not in young horse classes.
Tines and Spursuader spurs are not permitted.

What to wear for eventing dressage and showjumping

For all classes, competitors should wear:

Protective headwear of any colour
Jackets may be any single conservative colour in muted tones. Subtle pinstripes, piping and coloured collars are permitted, as is contrast piping to the collar, lapels, pockets and vents. Tweed should not be brightly coloured or boldly patterned. Navy jackets with red collar and white piping are reserved solely for British team members
If a waistcoat is worn, it must be in a conservative colour with muted tones.
Long or short-sleeved shirt that fastens at the neck (white, cream or conservative/muted colour)
Tie, American collar or correctly fastened stock
Breeches in white, buff, fawn, navy or black
Gloves – mandatory for the dressage phase only
Plain dark boots of any conservative colour or topped boots or full grain smooth dark leather gaiters of any conservative colour with matching boots
Below intermediate, riders can wear brown boots or brown leather gaiters with matching boots
For ONu18 classes, riders under the age of 16 may wear jodhpur boots with matching plain black or brown half chaps
Or, uniform with protective headwear

For advanced; advanced intermediate; and intermediate championships; in addition to the above:

The option of a black or dark blue tailcoat. Jackets of official national colours may be worn
Plain black/brown boots or full grain smooth black/brown leather gaiters with matching boots or topped boots

Things to note

Whips are not permitted in any form during the dressage test. One whip, no longer than 120cm including lash, maybe carried while riding on the flat.

The type of bib number worn is at the discretion of the organiser. Competitors may need to produce their own bib number.

One whip, maximum length 75cm and not weighted, may be carried for the showjumping phase.

What to wear for cross-country

Competitors should wear a sweatshirt, shirt or base layer. Long sleeves are strongly recommended.

Breeches and boots rules are as the dressage and showjumping phases.

Safety wear

At all levels, protective headwear with no peak and a cover should be worn.

Body protectors are mandatory and must be British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) approved, labelled as Level 3 (2018). Exo Body Cages can be worn but must be declared to the event secretary before going cross-country.

Air jackets are optional, but must be worn over a permitted body protector if you want to wear one for the cross-country phase. However, they can be worn for showjumping and dressage without the body protector.

Things to note

One whip, maximum length 75cm and not weighted, may be carried for the cross-country phase.

Bib numbers must be worn and be clearly visible from in front and behind.

For competitors in international classes, consult the FEI rules.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

British Eventing promises riders ‘a worthy BE80 championship’ after venue change

Becky Murray — Tue, 18 Feb 2025 17:52:05 +0000

British Eventing (BE) has assured competitors that Chillington Hall will provide an event “worthy of a championship of this calibre”, as riders share disappointment after Defender Bramham stepped down as host of the BE80 national championships.

On 13 February BE announced that Bramham (5-8 June) will no longer host the BE80 championships, owing to viability issues. The competition will now take place at Chillington Hall’s fixture from 31 May to 1 June. BE’s Anyone Can Event (ACE) championships take place from 29 May to 1 June at Aintree International Equestrian Centre.

Riders have reacted to the news with disappointment. Among the concerns shared were the fact that competing at Bramham gave competitors the “prestigious” experience of an international event, the BE80 course at Bramham was a one-off and only for those who have qualified, and some had qualified horses for both the BE80 championships and the ACE final, which now clash.

Alison Knox, 54, told H&H she understands that BE is “not to blame” and she is “very grateful to Chillington” for stepping in – but that competing at Bramham had been her dream.

“I’ve been to watch at Bramham the last two years and I aspired to get there. It’s like a mini four-star event,” she said.

“As the final will be running alongside Chillington’s standard BE competition, I worry it will just get lost within that schedule and I feel it takes away a bit from what the championships will feel like. At Bramham you have qualified to be there and compete on that course.”

BE chief executive Rosie Williams told H&H “we fully appreciate the disappointment our members are feeling”.

“Bramham have been trying hard to find solutions to their viability concerns and have been in conversations with potential sponsors until just a few weeks ago, but sadly to no avail,” she said.

“This has meant BE has had to find a replacement venue very quickly, and with the huge costs and risks associated with putting on such an event in such a short space of time, we’re hugely grateful to Chillington Hall for stepping up.”

Ms Williams added that BE wants to “assure members that we looked into every avenue including holding the BE80 alongside the grassroots championships at Badminton, but unfortunately, it simply wasn’t viable”.

“The decision was either to not run the BE80 championships at all in 2025, disappointing all those who had worked so hard to qualify, or take up the very generous offer of Chillington Hall, ensuring that our members had a championships to attend,” she said.

“We also appreciate that the championships clash with ACE, but with very limited options available to us, we simply had no other choice.”

Ms Williams said that Chillington Hall is already planning and designing the BE80 championship course to “ensure that the course and the event itself is worthy of a championship of this calibre”.

“We are working really hard to bring value to our members but sometimes things are simply out of our control,” she said.

A Bramham spokesperson told H&H the team had been “extremely heartened to receive such a huge amount of feedback following the tough decision to give up the BE80 championship”.

“It’s clear that in just three years, we’ve built the championships into something very special which meant so much to the eventing community, which makes it all the more difficult,” she said.

She added that the team explored “every avenue” to carry on with the class, which it “loved hosting”.

“We were grateful that sponsorship helped us create a ‘mini Bramham’ but ultimately, we still had to financially subsidise the championship each year. We learned last November that a major sponsor had pulled out and with BE immediately set out to find a replacement to give the championships every chance of being viable,” she said.

“We had a potential new partner, and things were looking very positive, but sadly we just couldn’t get things over the line and at the end of January had to review the situation. We explored several options to give every chance of securing the championship, but time was becoming a factor, and we felt it was only fair to give BE adequate time to find a replacement.

The spokesperson said that the team are “extremely grateful to BE for enabling the championships to come to Bramham, but simply couldn’t run them without sponsorship or afford to subsidise them to such a level”.

“BE has been hugely supportive, and we’ve kept them up to date throughout our mission to make the class viable and retain it as part of the Bramham event but sadly, it just wasn’t to be,” she said.

“We know many will be disappointed, for which we are very sorry; we too are disappointed to lose such a fantastic class which we’ve truly enjoyed hosting. Thank you to the team at Chillington Hall who have stepped in, and we have every faith that they’ll deliver a special championship experience for all who qualify.”

Chillington Hall, Staffordshire, has previously held BE80 and BE90 U18 championships and regional championships, and hosts national classes from BE80 to novice.

Organiser Vicky Plant of Plant A Fence Events said the team is “very excited to have been given the responsibility of such a prestigious and popular championships”.

“Our long-term aspirations are to grow the venue as a replacement for Weston Park, building more features and growing the event to host prestigious competitions that this special venue deserves,” she said.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘Reluctant decision’ as Bramham steps down as host of BE80 national championships

Becky Murray — Thu, 13 Feb 2025 16:17:05 +0000

Defender Bramham will no longer host the British Eventing BE80 national championships owing to viability issues, as a new venue is confirmed.

The championships had been due to take place alongside Bramham’s international horse trials (5-8 June), but today (13 February) BE announced that “following Bramham’s reluctant decision that they could no longer host the championship”, it will now take place at Chillington Hall’s fixture from 31 May to 1 June.

BE chief executive Rosie Williams thanked Bramham for its support over the past three years.

“We understand that having a stand-alone championships is not financially viable going forwards and are therefore delighted to have found a fantastic new venue in Chillington Hall,” she said.

“We will be working closely with Vicky and Janet Plant, and the team at Chillington Hall, to ensure the event is a memorable and enjoyable experience for our members.”

Bramham event director Nicholas Pritchard said it had been “a privilege to host the BE national championships over the last three years”.

“We created a volunteer army for the BE80, to whom we are eternally grateful. It’s been great fun to work with BE, and we enjoyed every aspect of hosting the class,” he said.

“It goes without saying that we explored all options and avenues to make the BE80 competition work alongside our international event but sadly we could not find a solution that made it viable. We wish all competitors the very best of luck at the new venue”.

Chillington Hall, based in Staffordshire, has previously held BE80 and BE90 U18 championships and regional championships, and hosts national classes from BE80 to novice. The Chillington fixture runs on the same weekend as the BE Anyone Can Event (ACE) championships, which take place from 29 May to 1 June at Aintree International Equestrian Centre.

“With landowners who are extremely supportive, coming from an eventing and horseracing background, and an experienced organising team, the parkland venue event not only has a good geographical location but is dedicated to developing the event,” said a BE spokesperson.

“The exciting championships will now take place as part of the successful June fixture with plans to continue building more features and increase the number of trade stands and overall footfall of the event to enhance the experience for both competitors and spectators.”

Chillington Hall organiser Vicky Plant of Plant A Fence Events said the team is “very excited to have been given the responsibility of such a prestigious and popular championships”.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

British Eventing allows riders to drop showjumping or dressage phase in new concept

Becky Murray — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 13:38:08 +0000

British Eventing (BE) has announced a new pilot format that allows riders to drop the dressage or showjumping phases.

XC+ is a concept designed to offer more flexibility to members, and will run at BE80 and BE90 levels at selected events with sufficient capacity.

A BE spokesperson said stats from its latest survey showed that members were “keen for us to investigate new formats of the sport” and that XC+ is an “exciting and positive step to providing members with more choice”.

The shorter format allows riders to compete in two phases instead of three; either cross-country and showjumping or cross-country and dressage. There will be no official scoring during the trial period, but as this progresses a scoring system will be developed and tested to add “a competitive element”.

“This innovative approach caters to varying needs, whether it’s due to time constraints, a focus on training in specific disciplines or simply personal preference and enjoyment. The goal is to provide an adapted version of eventing that meets the diverse demands of our audience,” said the spokesperson.

XC+ is open to all BE members, including pay-as-you-go competitors, who have completed a standard class at the same level within the past 12 months. Entries will cost 75% of the standard class fee, and will open one week after the event ballot date and “limited availability” during the pilot year.

BE chief executive Rosie Williams said the organisation is “thrilled to introduce XC+”.

“This concept gives our members greater choice while allowing them to compete in the same supportive and safe environment as standard competitions, with all the necessary resources such as fence judges and safety measures,” she said.

Laura de Wesselow, joint chair of the British Eventing Organisers Association, added that the concept is a “really positive addition to BE’s competitive offering, particularly for grassroots venues and members”.

“Not only will it offer a different spin on the classic format of eventing to members, but it will also benefit organisers by hopefully increasing the number of entries over a weekend of competition,” she said.

Standard BE rules for each phase will apply, although the dress code for XC+ is “more relaxed”.

“Safety remains paramount however, and all riders must meet the minimum safety equipment requirements as outlined in the BE handbook,” said the BE spokesperson.

Will you be entering XC+? Send your thoughts on this new concept to hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, and nearest town and county, for consideration for publication on our letters page.
To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Money-saving measures launched to help horse owners

Becky Murray — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 14:01:09 +0000

Money-saving measures and rewards platforms have been launched to help equestrians in tough times – as owners are reminded that “prevention is better than cure”.

As the cost of living continues to be a concern for many, a number of equestrian businesses and organisations have launched initiatives to ease financial pressures.

For some time, many vet practices have offered pay-monthly equine health plans, often including annual vaccinations and dental checks, worm egg counts and discounts on routine visits or procedures.

Oxfordshire-based independent practice Hook Norton Veterinary Group (HNVG) has taken this a step further with its “groundbreaking” £30-monthly Equiplan Gold scheme. It offers free pre-booked routine examinations, annual hoof balance X-rays, a 50% discount on lameness examinations and a 10% discount on Agria insurance among its benefits – as well as vaccinations, dental treatment and a worming programme.

HNVG director Sam Cutts told H&H the scheme was launched to help owners seek preventative health care for their horses.

“We’re aware that people’s disposable income is being tightened at the moment. We launched the scheme because we’ve got clients who really want to look after their horses as best as they can, but were starting to worry about the cost of calling the vet and therefore were potentially sitting on things – and then inevitably these can become bigger problems,” she said.

“It’s about prevention rather than cure, and trying to say to people, ‘We want to work with you to keep your horses as healthy as possible’ rather than having a situation where people turn to ‘Dr Google’ or bury their heads in the sand because they’re worried about the cost.”

Ms Cutts added that the practice “heavily promotes” hoof balance X-rays and it “made sense to make these affordable”.

“We know that an enormous number of lamenesses come from potentially poor foot balance. If people can do these X-rays once a year, rather than thinking, ‘It’s several hundreds of pounds and I can’t afford it,’ then we can work with farriers with this extra information provided by X-rays,” she said.

British Horse Society (BHS) chief operating officer Sarah Phillips told H&H rising costs can create “added pressures” for owners.

“There are many effective steps owners and carers can take to minimise spending. It is essential, however, to prioritise your horse’s health and welfare, even during tough times,” she said.

“Avoid false economies, such as skipping vaccinations, dental check-ups or hoof maintenance, as these can lead to serious health issues and higher costs in the long run. It is of vital importance that your horses’ care and welfare is at the forefront of your decision-making. The BHS horse care and welfare helpline is here to provide advice and support about all aspects of a horse’s wellbeing”.

Insurance provider SEIB has launched a rewards programme for its classic horse insurance policyholders, designed to “give back”. SEIB Rewards offers discounts, giveaways and special offers from equestrian brands, including Dengie, Equine Faecal Egg Count Solutions and PolyJumps.

“We’re committed to expanding the programme to offer our classic horse insurance policyholders increasing value. We’re excited about the partnerships already established and those on the horizon,” said SEIB’s digital marketing manager Katie Oswald.

Last month British Eventing (BE) announced changes to its membership offering, including more subsidised training, allowing payment for membership and training in three interest-free instalments, and a new rewards platform giving high-street discounts and offers with BE’s equestrian partners (news, 19 December 2024).

“We know times are hard and understand how difficult balancing the books can be. We have worked tirelessly to ensure that we can offer the best value offering possible to our members, while ensuring we can cover our costs and continue to reinvest back into the sport we all love,” said BE chief executive Rosie Williams.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘We’ve started to turn the ship’: eventing changes announced for 2025

Becky Murray — Sat, 14 Dec 2024 21:02:00 +0000

New membership benefits including the launch of rider personal accident cover have been announced by British Eventing (BE) – as it reflects on positive change despite challenges.

Governance, calendar changes, membership declines and enhancing membership value were some of the talking points at the BE AGM on 10 December.

Reflecting on the year, BE chief executive Rosie Williams said, “We’ve started to turn a big ship” – highlighting stronger relationships with event organisers, the fixtures review and the member QR code feedback system.

BE made a profit in 2023, but it has projected a £35,000 loss in a “challenging” 2024, with abandonments early in the season affecting membership renewals, and insurance premiums up 25% year on year, adding £129,000 to the cost base. But despite the abandonments, income from entry fees “held up well”, with a £40,000 increase expected this year.

Wayne Schofield, BE’s chief financial officer, said the deficit was “disappointing” given the surplus in 2023, but it “indicates the challenges do still exist”. He said the number one priority for 2025 is to return to, and maintain, profitability, to ensure the sustainability of eventing.

In governance news, as part of BE’s aim to achieve UK Sport tier three governance standard, which will “unlock opportunities for broader and more substantial funding for the sport”, members voted in favour of changes to BE’s articles, namely granting BE the power to appoint up to four non-executive board directors.

Ms Williams said there are too many members leaving, and “not enough coming in” – and there would be a focus on enhancing membership value. New benefits for 2025 include more subsidised training, a rewards platform offering high street discounts and legal services offered at “preferential rates”. Details of a new “XC Plus” offering the ability to compete “via a flexible and shorter version of the sport” are to be announced in due course.

BE has launched personal accident cover for members at BE events – including death and permanent disablement cover up to £20,000, and a potential £250 weekly payment payable for up to 26 weeks for injuries that prevent a person from undertaking all parts of their usual occupation. But the existing 24/7 public liability cover for registered horses will now only be applicable at BE events – and cover for all horses owned or in care of members will stop.

BE said this was to balance rising insurance costs – and to enable the personal accident offering.

“We have listened carefully to your wants and needs through our Here to Help campaign over the past year, and strive to continue to take on board your feedback and implement changes to ensure a positive future for the sport,” said Ms Williams.

“We know times are hard and understand how difficult balancing the books can be. We have worked tirelessly to ensure that we can offer the best-value offering possible to our members while ensuring we can cover our costs and continue to reinvest back into the sport we all love.

“We hope that our members will see the value in the membership we are constantly developing behind the scenes, and in the changes we have implemented and are planning on bringing in to make eventing more attractive than ever before.”

Other changes include PayPal credit as a payment option to allow members to register for events “over a period of time”, easing cash flow concerns and providing earlier certainty for organisers. Members will also be able to pay for their membership and training in three interest-free instalments. Membership fees have increased across the board, with a standard membership rising from £125 to £140.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout major shows such as London International and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Barbury returns to British Eventing calendar, plus more developments for the 2025 season

Lucy Elder — Fri, 29 Nov 2024 15:27:05 +0000

Barbury is back in the British Eventing (BE) calendar for 2025 alongside exciting new and returning fixtures next season.

The popular Wiltshire event, which previously held national and international classes up to CCI4*-S, dropped out of the affiliated calendar in 2023 and 2024, owing to restrictions placed on international events. These restrictions meant venues hosting FEI classes were not permitted to also hold unaffiliated eventing competitions.

Barbury returns to the national affiliated fixtures list for 2025 with a new spring date, with national classes from novice to advanced intermediate, and will include young horse qualifiers.

The event venue is on well-draining chalk grassland on the edge of the Marlborough Downs and next year’s fixture is scheduled for 21 to 23 March. It replaces the Cirencester (1) fixture, and will be run by the Cirencester organising team.

Horseheath also returns to the BE calendar the same weekend (22 to 23 March), with new organisers and classes from BE100 to open intermediate.

H&H has reported that the European Eventing Championships will take place at Blenheim in September. The news that Chatsworth is taking a break from the calendar for 2025 and has been replaced next year by Belsay (17 to 18 May), and that Scone Palace will step into Blair Castle’s place (21 to 24 August), is also widely known.

Bicton’s spring three-day (22 to 25 May) will incorporate the British leg of the Nations Cup.

Oasby (1), often an early season run for horses targeting major fixtures, has cut back to try to protect itself from weather challenges. It will now include BE100 to open intermediate classes on just two midweek days (6 to 7 March) – but is also running an additional grassroots fixture over Easter weekend (18 to 19 April).

South of Scotland, a new event that will be held at Valleyfield Farm, Twynholm, with classes from BE90 to open novice, is scheduled for 14 and 15 June.

British Eventing calendar 2025: other developments

In other news, entry refunds for members from the abandonment support fund will increase from 60% to 70% next year.

Late fees will also be waived if members reroute to a new event within three days of the abandonment of their original entry.

Entry fees for national classes are increasing by two percent, in line with the consumer price index (CPI). PayPal credit is also being added as a payment option for entry fees.

“We have worked closely with British Eventing to offer the best possible value to members in the current climate of rising costs, not just for organisers but for owners and competitors too,” said Laura de Wesselow, joint chair of the British Eventing Organisers Association.

“The two percent increase in entry fees next season is in line with the CPI, which is fair and reasonable.”

Organisers of FEI classes are able to set entry fees reflective of their business models, event types and operational costs. BE has said that it trusts that organisers will “set fair and reasonable fees for these classes”.

BE chief executive Rosie Williams said that she is “truly excited about the extensive changes” BE is implementing and hopes that the “community shares in this excitement”.

“We’re also continuing the QR code feedback system, which has received over 5,000 responses,” she said.

“This invaluable input has played a key role in shaping many of the changes we’ve made. We are also working on several collaborations and new trials that we will be announcing in due course.”

View the 2025 BE calendar [PDF] and full summary of changes

To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout major shows such as London International and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

11 ways you know the eventing season has come to an end

Pippa Roome — Thu, 07 Nov 2024 16:32:06 +0000

The final fixtures of the British Eventing season are already in the rear view mirror and from social media to bedtime reading, all eventing fans and competitors can see the signs that it’s all over for another year.

Check out our list of sure-fire clues that the eventing season has come to an end…

1. When someone invites you to do something non-horsey on a weekend, you consider their proposal rather than just saying no.

2. Social media is filled with riders thanking owners and sponsors for their support over the season.

3. You start to wonder whether event schedules on the British Eventing website are really suitable bedtime reading.

4. You find yourself at British Showjumping shows, looking oddly out of place. It’s ok – wearing a hairnet really doesn’t make you wrong.

5. Ditto British Dressage shows. And yes, tweed is perfectly acceptable in the dressage arena at the lower levels, whatever the H&H dressage editor says.

6. You start to see pictures of event horses looking hairy and muddy on holiday on Instagram rather than competition shots.

7. Event riders will soon be tweeting about their skiing injuries, rather than their eventing injuries.

8. You find yourself taking an unprecedented interest in eventing in Australia, New Zealand and anywhere else where the season is still continuing.

9. If your last event went badly, you’re frantically searching for hunter trial schedules so you don’t have to rest on that cross-country round for the next four months.

10. You read advice about how to win arena eventing competitions. Maybe they will help fill the void eventing has left…

11. You put Badminton, Burghley and your personal goal for next year in your work diary to deter anyone from booking you for actual work on those dates.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout major shows such as London International and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Major international horse trials ‘opts out’ of 2025 calendar, but aims to return in 2026

Becky Murray — Wed, 02 Oct 2024 11:38:17 +0000

Chatsworth International Horse Trials will not run in 2025, as organisers commit to “finding the best course of action to secure its future”.

Chatsworth has faced a difficult two years owing to the weather. This year’s event, which was due to include the British leg of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup, was cancelled two days before it was due to run from 17-19 May, and the 2023 edition had to abandon its CCI2* sections.

A British Eventing (BE) spokesperson said “the huge disruption following the cancellation of the horse trials in May due to torrential rain, and the truncating of the programme in 2023, also as a result of the weather, has been incredibly frustrating and disappointing and has had an enormous impact on all concerned”.

“The organisers have therefore been working with BE to see if running later in the season, to mitigate at least some of the risk, might be possible,” the spokesperson said.

“Moving dates, however, is not straightforward and would have a huge impact on the overall logistics including, crucially, the availability of the loyal officials, volunteers, contractors and trade stand regulars.”

The spokesperson added that as the 2025 schedule planning is already “well under way” the decision has been made for Chatsworth to opt out of the 2025 calendar, “to give time for everyone to regroup and work towards producing a stronger than ever event in 2026”.

Chatsworth event director Patricia Clifton said: “The last two years have been extremely difficult for all involved, but we are committed to finding the best course of action to secure its future.

“A break in 2025 will give us a chance to have a fresh look at the event and to make sure we can again produce top-class competition in 2026.”

BE chief executive Rosie Williams added: “We have tried very hard to get the right date for Chatsworth but unfortunately it has just proven too complex for them to enable things to align”.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout Horse of the Year Show, London International and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Delight as ‘world-class’ international event secured to replace Blair

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 10:11:41 +0000

A new international horse trials will be held from next year, to replace Blair Castle, and organisers promise a world-class event for “decades to come”.

H&H reported in March that the 35th Blair Castle International Horse Trials (22-25 August) would be the last. But today (21 August), it has been announced that an event running classes up to CCI4*-L will run at Scone Palace in Perthshire, just over 35 miles away from Blair.

“The first Scone Palace International Horse Trials will be held next August in the historic and picturesque parklands of Scone Palace and the adjacent Perth racecourse, offering a unique and enhanced setting for this new world-class event,” said a statement from the palace, with British Eventing (BE).

“The establishment of this equestrian competition at this iconic location reinforces Perthshire’s status as a premier destination for international sporting events and ensures the continuation of top-tier eventing in the region.”

Scone Estates CEO Brian Stevenson said the team was delighted that the palace and racecourse were to establish the new fixture.

“We are thrilled to bring a new and major event to Perthshire, highlighting the region as a premium destination for large-scale international events,” he said. “The team and I look forward to working with British Eventing to deliver another world-class event.”

The Scottish Eventing Championships were held at Scone Palace for some years from 2009; Central Scotland Horse Trials started there in 1950 and returned to the palace in 1991 having run at other venues.

William, Viscount Stormont of Scone Palace, added: “Perth racecourse and the parkland at Scone Palace are a fantastic setting for this new international event. The parkland has a long history of hosting eventing competitions, and we know that many Scottish equestrians have fond memories of eventing here. We are delighted to build on the legacy of Blair Castle and bring a new event to new generations for decades to come.

“Equally, we are pleased to introduce the facilities at Perth racecourse to a new international event and to deploy the team to produce a best-in-class eventing surface. We must also acknowledge the Troughton family and everyone at Blair Castle for delivering 35 years of world-class eventing, and we wish them all the best for the final horse trials at Blair Castle.”

The statement said organisers hope the partnership with Perth racecourse will “offer enhanced facilities and an unparalleled setting, ensuring the event’s continued success and growth in its new home”.

Matthew Taylor, director of racing at Perth racecourse, said: “We are delighted to be taking on the honour of running the new Scone Palace International Horse Trials at the parkland at Scone Palace and Perth racecourse. The team at Blair Atholl has done a wonderful job over the past 35 years of hosting such a coveted event in the equestrian calendar. We cannot wait for the opportunity to begin our own new chapter and deliver what we are confident will be Scotland’s leading equestrian event.

“The grounds teams between both the Scone Palace team and Perth racecourse team have a vast amount of experience and machinery to provide a world-class surface for next August.”

The palace will also host the Scottish grassroots championship with more national and international classes incorporated. BE and Scone Palace are “actively working on the schedule and further details will be released when available”.

BE CEO Rosie Williams, said: “We are thrilled to announce that Scone Palace will establish a new and exciting fixture within the British Eventing calendar. We couldn’t have hoped for a better venue. The BE team and the team at Scone will be working tirelessly over the coming months to ensure everything is ready for next year’s event. It’s fitting that the final event at Blair will be a celebration of its many years of success. We now look forward to Scone carrying on this proud tradition.”

Scone Palace International Horse Trials will run from 21-24 August 2025.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout the Paralympic Games, Burghley, Horse of the Year Show and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘I was lost and grieving, I needed a challenge’ – Piggy March on 1100km charity cycle ride

Pippa Roome — Tue, 20 Aug 2024 15:49:22 +0000

Piggy March has spoken about why she’s taking part in the 1100km Cycle4Caroline bike ride, in aid of Spinal Research and the British Eventing (BE) Support Trust, and in memory of her sister-in-law Caroline March.

The Badminton and Burghley winner said at the launch of the event yesterday (19 August): “I’ve been eventing for 25 or 30 years and I love our sport, but I’ve realised over the past few years how fine the line is between enjoying a wonderful sport – not worrying about anything but whether you’ve won a rosette or had two fences down – and what really matters, which is family life, the people you care about. And I’ve seen how easily things can go wrong.”

She added: “I hate exercise, but I was mentally lost at the beginning of the year. I didn’t have any horses to aim for the Olympics and I was lost and grieving. I needed a challenge.”

Cycle4Caroline will involved Piggy March, her husband Tom and six other riders cycling from Blair Castle to London from 20-30 November, with the aim of raising £500,000 for the charities involved.

“It was important we did something that is going to be tough – to say, ‘Shut up, you’re lucky to have legs that still work, get to the top of that hill’,” said Piggy. “It’s important to put something back into the sport, to help other families in the future and give people the best possible quality of life after a serious accident.”

Piggy said she and bicycles are not natural friends: “I’d not been on a bike for years before we started training and one of my first memories is falling off a bike and breaking my nose when I was about eight years old.”

She added that she is used to sitting on a horse so the forward position of being crouched over handlebars is a different sort of conditioning for her body.

“I keep having to get off and lie down,” she said.

The riders are scheduled to arrive at the Savoy Hotel in London on 30 November, in time for the BE Support Trust ball at the venue that evening.

“I said to Tom, ‘Can’t we arrive a few days earlier?’ If we get to the Savoy for the ball and are still able to walk and talk and hold a glass of champagne, it’ll be a small miracle!” said Piggy.

Find out how to support Cycle4Caroline

To stay up-to-date with all the breaking news throughout the Paralympic Games, Burghley, Horse of the Year Show and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Piggy March among those tackling epic Cycle4Caroline ride to raise half a million pounds for charity

Pippa Roome — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 17:51:37 +0000

Double five-star winner Piggy March and her husband Tom will lead a group of eight cyclists on a 1,100km ride from Blair Castle to London this autumn, a challenge named Cycle4Caroline.

They will aim to raise half a million pounds for Spinal Research and the British Eventing (BE) Support Trust in memory of Tom’s sister Caroline, who passed away in March this year after sustaining life-changing injuries in an eventing fall in April 2022.

“It’s been very difficult for all her friends and family and we found ourselves a bit lost in terms of where we were going and what to do with ourselves,” said Tom, explaining that the idea for the ride came out of a discussion over lunch with former event rider Tommy How, now a director of body protector manufacturer Racesafe.

“He was talking about riding from London to Paris, then Piggy said she’d be up for that and another beer later, it was spiralling out of control.”

The ride will start at Blair Castle on 20 November and finish at the Savoy Hotel in London on 30 November, the day of the BE Support Trust ball at the venue. Along the way, it will take in all the British CCI4*-L and CCI5* venues – Blair, Bramham, Burghley, Badminton and Blenheim – as well as Belsay, Chatsworth and Windsor.

Joining Tom and Piggy on Cycle4Caroline will be Tommy How, Ian Stark (chair of trustees for the BE Support Trust), Piggy’s sister Nini French, event rider Holly Woodhead, Brett Bullimore (husband of medal-winning event rider Sarah) and Alastair Wilson, who is joint-patron of the BE Support Trust with his wife Nicola Wilson, who suffered life-changing spinal injuries in a fall at Badminton Horse Trials in 2022. Special guests will join for sections along the way.

Holly Woodhead, Tom March and Piggy March lead the Cycle4Caroline riders at the launch event. (Image credit: Jason Bax)

Training has started for most of the core participants, with some good-natured joshing at the event launch today (19 August) at Piggy’s yard in Maidwell, Northamptonshire.

“It’s downhill from Scotland to London – what can go wrong?” said Alastair.

Tom explained gently: “That’s not the case – and there’s a reason everyone cycles from Land’s End to John O’Groats, which is the prevailing wind, but we only learnt that after we’d set the route, so we’re looking forward to lots of wind in our faces in November.”

The group’s route will involve some significant hills when they stop in at Ian Stark’s home near Selkirk – “I wasn’t sure that was such a good idea, looking at the topography map,” said Tom – as well as when they visit Chatsworth.

“Having a support system is fantastic”

The group hope Cycle4Caroline will raise £500,000 through donations and partnering with businesses. The money raised will be split equally between Spinal Research and the BE Support Trust.

Alastair said: “The BE Support Trust were very good to Nicola and me when we were in trouble two years ago. When you are at rock bottom, having a support system to get hold of you is fantastic.

“You can lose your sport, your business and it’s a lonely place to be. And they help people with less serious injuries, too.”

BE Support Trust general manager Jane Hunter-Walsh said the money will be “transformative” for the charity, which was founded in 2021 to support the physical and mental health of BE competing members. It has helped more than 60 people since then.

“The average beneficiary has six sessions, at a cost of £540, and when someone has a life-changing injury, supporting them can run into six figures,” she said.

Tom said “having a safety net there to help in that moment of need is invaluable”, going on to talk about Caroline’s passion for new technology and developments in spinal cord research.

“We wanted a charity beyond equestrian, which is fighting to make people’s lives better when they have suffered a spinal cord injury,” he said.

Spinal Research has been operating for 40 years and is the UK’s leading charity funding medical research worldwide to develop effective treatments for paralysis caused by a spinal cord injury. Someone in the UK suffers a spinal cord injury every two hours, many of them in car crashes or everyday situations such as falling down the stairs.

Tara Stewart, chair of Spinal Research, said this support “couldn’t have come at a better time” because the charity is finally at the stage where function-restoring therapeutics are being tested in human trials, offering real hope that curing paralysis will be the medical breakthrough of the 21st century.

The support team for Cycle4Caroline includes cycling trainer Sara Symington (double Olympic cyclist and now head of Olympic and Paralympic programmes at British Cycling), physio Ash Wallace, bicycle mechanic Alan Rayner, Sarah Skillin (founder and director of marketing agency EquiConsulting) and Pippie Polson and Piggy’s head girl Amy Phillips, who are leading on logistics, marketing and partnerships.

Find out how to support Cycle4Caroline

To stay up-to-date with all the breaking news throughout the Paralympic Games, Burghley, Horse of the Year Show and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Eventing community to remember Georgie Campbell with two-minute silence

Becky Murray — Thu, 30 May 2024 12:23:06 +0000

The eventing community will come together this weekend to remember Georgie Campbell with a two-minute silence.

Georgie, 36, and Global Quest were competing in the CCI4*-S at Bicton Horse Trials on 26 May, when they fell on the cross-country. Global Quest was uninjured, but despite receiving immediate medical assistance, Georgie could not be saved.

“Georgie was an extremely talented and accomplished rider who applied herself to the sport wholeheartedly. Her passion for eventing, her personality and zest for life saw her loved and respected by her fellow competitors,” said a British Eventing (BE) spokesperson.

“Her tragic loss of life doing what she enjoyed most, has seen an outpouring of love and support for Jesse and the family and friends she leaves behind.”

The BE spokesperson said “as a community, we will take a moment at all BE events this weekend, as well as at Millstreet in Ireland where several of Georgie’s friends will be competing, to stand quietly together and reflect”.

“We ask members and supporters, whether at an event or at home, to join us at 12pm to stop and take two minutes to reflect on Georgie’s life and quietly send thoughts and prayers to her family and friends,” he said.

“There will be BE Support Trust (BEST) and BE staff at all events this weekend to answer any questions you might have.”

BE has a dedicated support line via BEST (07780 008 877) for anyone who has been affected. The line is open 24 hours a day, and callers will be connected with a mental health professional who will ensure they are given the most appropriate support. People can also email support@sportingchanceclinic.com.

Charity Riders Minds offers a 24-hour live webchat and counselling services. Visit ridersminds.org, text 07480 488 103, or call 0800 088 2073.

Horse & Hound is working with Georgie’s family on a tribute to this special individual, which will be published in due course.

‘She tried her heart out’: farewell to 30-year-old pony who took a host of riders to the top

Becky Murray — Fri, 24 May 2024 12:04:35 +0000

Catherston Nutsafe, the superstar pony who won multiple medals and shone across disciplines, has died in retirement aged 30.

“Snoopy” was bred in 1995 by Catherston Stud, by Catherston Nightsafe and out of Catherston Dauntless. As a six-year-old, she joined the Baird family in Aberdeen, where she was produced by Harriet (now Harriet Allen), her sister Tabitha and their mum Catie.

“In the early days she was pretty sharp, and tried a lot of tricks! We did a lot of Pony Club, and in 2005 won the Urky Newton bursary for our cross-country round at the national championships,” Harriet told H&H.

“Another big highlight was taking her to Ballindenisk that year where we were second in the British Eventing pony trial.”

Snoopy also turned her hooves to showing, winning a working hunter final at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in 2006, following a spur-of-the-moment decision to enter her in a qualifying class.

“At the last minute we registered Snoopy for a class, and we won it. I didn’t know it was a qualifier, then my mum told me ‘You’ve qualified for HOYS!’” said Harriet.

“The plan had been to do a couple more working hunters before the final but we didn’t get round to it as we were busy with eventing, so we just went to HOYS – and we won.”

As it was Harriet’s last year on ponies, Snoopy went on to the McEwen family and became a prominent name on the pony eventing circuit. She was ridden by Tom in his final year on ponies, then by his sister Ella, then 14, who enjoyed much success in pony trials with her. Ella and Snoopy won team silver at the 2008 pony Europeans in Avenches, Switzerland, and were part of the silver medal-winning team at the 2009 Europeans at Moorsele, Belgium.

In 2010 Snoopy was sold to the Ecroyd family for 13-year-old Sam. The pair clocked up seven wins in their first season and won team gold at the pony Europeans at Bishop Burton. Snoopy then went on to continued success with Chelsea Pearce, and later Molly Faulkner.

“We took a long time to produce her so she understood everything, and it was amazing to watch her go on with all those riders and do what she did. She was a princess when she arrived with us, and was still a princess when she left but a bit more of a hardcore princess!” said Harriet.

“She just tried her heart out. She had a heart of gold and did everything for you that she possibly could. She loved her job and once she understood what the question was, that was it.”

Snoopy retired from eventing in 2016 and continued in showjumping with Molly Faulkner, before the late Kenneth Pritchard bought her for Kathleen Doyle in 2018.

“We did HOYS and Hickstead qualifiers, JC/JA classes, and took her to Home Pony shows. She took me to the top, she was such a great pony,” Kathleen told H&H.

“She would be quiet in the warm-up then at the gate waiting to go into the ring she’d be bouncing on the spot with excitement. She just loved it, she acted like a six-year-old.”

Snoopy retired sound from competition in 2020 aged 26, and continued to enjoy hacking. She died in her field from natural causes on 19 May aged 30.

“She was my best friend and we had so much fun together,” said Kathleen.

“She meant an awful lot to our family, especially because Ken passed not long after he bought her for me, she really was so special.”

You might also be interested in:

(Image credit: Jo Prestwich)

‘It has been a true honour’: end of an era as top horse retires aged 17

(Image credit: Jo Prestwich)

‘A genius and a lunatic’: Andrew Hoy says farewell to top horse who was ‘a member of our family’

(Image credit: Jo Prestwich)

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.

New venue for British Eventing national championships after loss of Gatcombe

Becky Murray — Mon, 20 May 2024 13:42:00 +0000

Hartpury University and College will hold this year’s British Eventing (BE) national championships, following the cancellation of Gatcombe.

In March it was announced that the Magic Millions Festival of British Eventing at Gatcombe (2-4 August) was off following the adverse weather experienced last year which led to the abandonment of the event, and the “ever-increasing costs associated with operating on a greenfield site”.

The championships will now run alongside the NAF Five Star International Hartpury Horse Trials on 7-11 August.

The novice, intermediate and open national championships, the Corinthian Cup restricted novice championship and the retrained racehorse championship will run alongside Hartpury’s CCI2*-L, CCI3*-L, and CCI4*-S classes, with an additional day of cross-country on 11 August.

“Britain’s national champions will then be crowned in what will be a fitting finale to a week celebrating the sport of eventing,” said a BE spokesman, adding that Hartpury is “no stranger” to holding top events, having hosted the European dressage and eventing championships for juniors and young riders in 2022.

BE chief executive Rosie Williams added that BE is “really pleased” to be working with the Hartpury team.

“We are all focused on building this back to a major event for our members of all levels to aspire to, and it is brilliant to have Hartpury on board to help us do that,” she said.

“Members attending the championships will have access to top-class facilities across all days of competition, while also being able to enjoy the atmosphere that the existing international event brings with it. Our national classes are the pinnacle in the calendar for many of our members, and we look forward to being able to watch the titles being contested within a top-class environment.”

Hartpury deputy vice-chancellor Rosie Scott-Ward said “it is our privilege to be trusted with delivering these championships in 2024”.

“Like many others, we were sad to hear of the loss of Gatcombe’s Festival of British Eventing from the calendar this year,” she said.

“While it’s not easy stepping up at relatively short notice, I’m very proud of our team here who have already got to work to ensure we deliver a superb competition and championship atmosphere for competitors.”

Ms Scott-Ward added that Hartpury has “exciting plans” for the cross-country courses.

“We are working with designer Eric Winter and [course-builders] Jump1 to create world-class tracks and exceptional going, both for the championships and also for our prestigious international classes,” she said.

“We look forward to welcoming everyone in August.”

‘Thinking outside the box’: eventing acts fast to replace fixtures lost to the weather

Lucy Elder — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 14:37:07 +0000

Organisers and British Eventing (BE) have made rapid contingency plans for replacement fixtures, as the wet spring continues to cause headaches for equestrians.

In a move to ensure event riders are given every opportunity to get out and compete, venues, BE and organisers have moved swiftly to offer alternatives following cancellations.

The fixture due to be held at Brechin Castle in Scotland on 4 May has been moved to Kirriemuir, where ground conditions have improved. The fixture will be known as Brechin Castle at Kirriemuir.

All those entered have until 5pm on Sunday (14 April) to request a full refund if they do not wish to transfer their entry – after that, all entries will be considered transferred.

BE said in a statement that the event will also run novice and open novice sections, plus under-18 classes from BE80 to novice.

“Depending on entry levels the organisers would consider running two days of competition,” added the statement.

Breckenborough, near Thirsk, which was forced to abandon the fixture it was due to hold last week (6 to 8 April) has been allocated new dates on 11 to 12 May.

Solihull (1), which had been scheduled to run from 20 to 21 April, has been abandoned, as ground conditions on parts of the course mean site preparations are “impossible”. But hope is not lost, as the event has been allowed to move to 1 to 2 May – the dates recently made available owing to the cancellation of Moreton Morrell (1).

Stuart Buntine of BEDE Events, which organises Solihull (1), told H&H BE has been “incredible” in making “really quick decisions and thinking outside the box to help us move events to new dates to help keep them running, and to support the membership with events to run at”.

“It wasn’t an easy task to find suitable new dates, making sure we didn’t impact on any existing fixtures,” said Mr Buntine.

“We’re aware that moving to a midweek date won’t work for some, however it was the most logical date given the earlier cancellation of Moreton Morrell, also giving those affected competitors an alternative event in the same area.”

He added BEDE is “so grateful” for BE’s support and looks forward to the challenge of running two events in a week, as BEDE is also running Osberton (1) from 2 to 5 May.

BE chief executive Rosie Williams added: “While we understand this replacement is a mid-week date, we are trying to create opportunities for those that have that have been disappointed by Moreton Morrell cancelling, and also those who were going to run at Solihull next weekend who might be able to transfer.”

New grassroots three-day event with big prizes planned for summer 2024

Lucy Elder — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 15:09:17 +0000

A new grassroots three-day event will be trialled at Frickley Park this summer open to all British Eventing (BE) members competing at BE90 and BE100.

The Uvex Frickley Cup (16 to 19 August) will run long-format classes at both levels at the Frickley Park International Horse Trials. Competitors will perform their dressage in front of two judges on the Friday and take on an extended cross-country course on Saturday, with a trot-up and reverse-order showjumping on the final day. Prizegivings will be mounted.

Frickley event director William Buck said he “couldn’t have been more delighted” at how the idea has been embraced by BE.

Competitors staying on site will be able to use the event’s pop-up evening restaurant and bar, hacking, and attend a complementary drinks party on Frickley Hall’s lawns. Friends and family will be invited to camp on site for free.

Simon Middleton, director of Zebra Products said: “I am a keen eventer myself, and when I heard of the new long-format competition for riders competing at this level, I very much wanted to support it.

“It is a great initiative, and it will see not only great competition, but also bring together the eventing community in a fun way. I am looking forward to seeing it first-hand and presenting to the winners after three great days of competition.”

The cross-country will be single-phase, with no roads and tracks or steeplechase. The only entry requirement is that combinations have the ability to compete at either BE90 or BE100.

BE’s recently launched “here to help” campaign, which involves having experts on site to assist riders, will be running at the fixture.

British Eventing chief executive Rosie Williams said this is “such a great opportunity” for grassroots riders, and thanked the team at Frickley for putting the idea forward.

“We are going to support the initiative by having help on the ground that members can ask advice from, whether it be a question on tack or an accompanied course walk.

“The entire three days will be about creating an environment that not only gives them three days of competition, but also three days of fun!”

‘Nothing for riders to aspire to’: loss of Blair Castle and other eventing concerns come under discussion

Becky Murray — Sat, 23 Mar 2024 21:02:41 +0000

The cancellation of Blair Castle was a major talking point at the British Eventing (BE) Scotland AGM on 20 March – as concerns continue for the sport in Scotland.

H&H reported this week that Blair Castle Horse Trials had announced that this year’s event will be the last. A Blair Castle statement said the land on which the event is held “is increasing its involvement in regenerative agriculture and in future the land will require to be managed all year round in a way that is in accordance with its environmental aims”.

The event, which is host to international eventing from CCI* to CCI4*-L, the Scottish Grassroots Eventing Championships, showing and British Showjumping classes, will run for the 35th and final time on 22–25 August. The news comes just weeks after it was announced that the Festival of British Eventing has been cancelled for 2024, owing to viability issues.

Discussing Blair’s cancellation at the AGM, it was agreed that this was “not a BE problem” but an eventing problem.

Blair event director Alec Lochore said that land management and farming is changing UK-wide.

“Now that the farm subsidies are changing, and the way that farmers use the land, I think that is a challenge for everybody; farmers, landowners, and therefore the sport,” he said.

“I tried on a couple of occasions to make a claim for the sport to continue [at Blair] and it is with regret that there is a line in the sand.”

It was discussed whether a new Scottish venue could be found to “replicate the Blair experience”, and Alec said there is “not a yes or no answer”.

“It’s a case of, let’s explore that if that opportunity comes up. Blair is a huge event, and to transpose it straight onto another event is a fantastic notion, but let’s see if that’s even possible by finding a venue in the first instance. There would be the requirement for quite a considerable amount of investment because there is so much infrastructure now at Blair, which one takes for granted,” he said.

BE chief executive Rosie Williams agreed with Alec and said it is “a nigh-on impossible thing to transport something with 35 years of history and just put it somewhere else”.

“Those things don’t ever really work, so we’ve got to get our heads together and make sure we can find that iconic event that is right for Scotland,” she said. “We’ve got to make these events viable for landowners to be able to say, ‘It’s worth me holding a horse trials’ and not necessarily heading down an agricultural route.”

Ms Williams added that BE’s immediate focus will be trying to “increase the amount of good-quality events that are relevant to the Scottish membership” – and finding a replacement for the Scottish Grassroots Eventing Championships. BE is also training more coaches in the region to help “develop the talent”.

Other discussions included the limited number of events, and that there is no current Scottish representation on the BE fixtures committee. Concerns were also raised that Scotland does not hold any classes at intermediate or above – and those who have a BE premier membership pay the same price as riders in England, but for less opportunity.

Ms Williams acknowledged frustrations, but highlighted some of the challenges including event viability and entries for upper-level classes. Of Scotland’s 700 members, 575 are grassroots, and Ms Williams said it would be “irresponsible” to put on intermediate classes with limited numbers of horses to run in them.

This was met with response from the AGM attendees that how can BE expect to grow the Scottish membership, if there is “nothing for riders to aspire to” – and that decisions to run upper-level classes in Scotland and northern England should be based on figures across Britain, not just Scottish numbers.

Ms Williams said BE is “not shying away from the fact we need to do something”, and reiterated that there will be a full fixtures review, that will undergo public consultation, plus a governance and membership categorisation review.

The meeting concluded with a presentation to outgoing BE Scotland chairman John White. Recruitment will begin for his replacement.

‘All hands on deck’ as event steps up to host replacement fixture – with just days’ notice

Lucy Elder — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 15:18:07 +0000

Tweseldown has received a flood of praise after the event stepped up to offer replacement classes at the 11th hour, after Cirencester Park (1) was forced to abandon owing to waterlogged ground.

Cirencester Park (22 to 24 March) serves as an early season run for many horses that are expected to target upper-level international events. But after 15mm to 20mm of rain over the weekend on already “absolutely saturated ground” and more rain forecast, the decision was made yesterday lunchtime (18 March) that it would not be safe to run this week.

“We made an early call because we hope that other opportunities may present themselves for the weekend,” said Alec Lochore, of Musketeer Events which runs the horse trials at Cirencester Park. “We are really sorry for everybody involved. We very much hope to see you at a dry and sunny Cirencester Park [for the next fixture here] at the end of April.”

Later that afternoon, British Eventing (BE) announced that Tweseldown organiser Rachel Faulkner and her team had stepped up to run a replacement event, with days to prepare.

Tweseldown will host intermediate, open intermediate, advanced intermediate, novice, intermediate novice, and youth classes this weekend (23 to 24 March), with cross-country courses designed by Andy Heffernan.

“We will be providing totally different tracks to those ridden across a few weeks ago at our previous event,” said Rachel.

“We very much want to make sure that anyone returning to Tweseldown, after only competing here recently, is given the opportunity to ride over a different course, which we are fortunate enough to be able to offer here.”

She added: “It’s all hands on deck, and I just want to say a huge thank you to everybody who has stepped up after our millions of phone calls to see if they can help.

“We do have one small challenge – and that is dressage. There is a big conference on, so we are struggling with dressage judges: we need list three and above. If anyone knows any dressage judges who are free this weekend, please do let me know. I can’t wait to hopefully see loads of riders here at the weekend.”

Tweseldown is also seeking dressage judges of list four and above on Saturday as well as a farrier that day, plus volunteers to help with for pole picking (Saturday), dressage writing (Saturday) and dressage score sheet collecting (Saturday and Sunday). For information and to register interest, contact Lucy Slater at tweseldownvolunteers@gmail.com

BE chief executive Rosie Williams said: “What a great show of teamwork with Tweseldown stepping in at late notice to give our members the chance to compete this weekend.”

The wet spring has punched a hole in many people’s calendars.

Northallerton (1), which was also due to run this weekend (23 to 24 March), has also been scuppered by the weather. BE is working with organisers to see if it can reschedule the fixture “to make sure that members have as many options to compete in the early part of the season as possible”.

The popular Peter O’Sullevan Lambourn Open Day, which traditionally takes place on Good Friday (this year 29 March), has been called off with “bitter regret” as a result of flooded and unusable car parks.

Here to Help: new campaign to encourage more riders into eventing

Becky Murray — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 17:29:41 +0000

British Eventing (BE) has launched a new campaign that aims to encourage more riders of all levels into the sport.

The Here to Help scheme aims to assist in “breaking down barriers” and ensure anyone who wants to event at any level or ability is aware they can do so within the “encouraging, supportive, and progressive environment offered by the national governing body”.

“Coming new to any sport at any age can be daunting, but as myself and our members are aware, eventing is actually a very welcoming and inclusive discipline where there is space and events for all,” said BE chief executive Rosie Williams.

“So therefore, it is always a surprise to hear that people see BE as unattainable, and mistakenly think that they aren’t good enough to join us.”

Ms Williams added that “it is important for us to break down these misconceptions by highlighting how welcoming our sport really is”.

“The campaign is designed to encourage new members to try eventing, while also ensuring that our current members understand how much we value them and are aware of the support on offer. To achieve this, we will have BE ambassadors on the ground at events who are knowledgeable in what it takes to event and can work directly with members to help them get the most out of their competition days,” she said.

“That help might come in the shape of walking the course with them to show them the right decisions to make, helping them with competition guidelines and being a general motivator to ensure everyone has the best experiences possible.

“Whether someone is new to eventing or a long-standing member, BE is passionate about helping members get the most out of everything our brilliant sport has to offer.”

“It was fitting to launch Here to Help during the stakeholder day as both are focused on moving the sport forward and coming up with solutions to the challenges faced, and this forms the start of looking at setting the strategic direction for the sport,” said Ms Williams.

“I would like to thank Sport England whose funding has allowed for the roll out and launch of the campaign.”

Horse & Hound’s essential guide to eventing dressage scoring

Pippa Roome — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 13:00:14 +0000

How does eventing dressage scoring work? Here is Horse & Hound’s essential guide to help you understand how the judges and scorers award and calculate the marks and penalties…

Firstly, it’s important to understand that eventing is administrated at both national and international level. In Britain, national classes come under the auspices of British Eventing (BE) while all international classes worldwide are run under FEI rules. Broadly speaking, eventing dressage scoring is done in the same way under both BE and FEI rules, but there are a few differences.

Marks for each movement

In the eventing dressage phase, the combination of horse and rider perform a set test and the judge or judges mark each movement out of 10; occasionally a movement is worth double marks. Judges use whole marks and half marks when scoring a test.

Judges also give “collectives” at the end of the test. In BE tests, there are 10 marks available for each collective – paces, impulsion, submission and rider. In FEI tests, there is just one collective, for harmony of athlete and horse, and this is worth double marks.

The total number of marks available varies according to the test level – BE test are scored out of 200 to 280, depending on the level, while there are between 210 and 300 marks available in FEI tests.

Marks are deducted for errors of course and various other infringements.

Number of judges for eventing dressage scoring

From BE90 to intermediate level, there is one judge for the dressage phase. At advanced intermediate and advanced level there are usually two judges, although occasionally BE may give permission for just one judge to adjudicate on a class. FEI one-star competitions and short format classes at any level can be judged by two or three judges. Two- and three-star long format events can also have two or three judges, but there must be three judges at long format four- and five-star competitions.

It is worth noting that at BE events, the dressage judges simply judge the dressage. In FEI events, the dressage judging is done by the “ground jury”, who have responsibility throughout all phases of the competition, working with other officials as appropriate on aspects such as passing or failing horses at the trot-ups, assessing if courses are at the right level and making sure penalties are correctly awarded in the showjumping and cross-country phases.

How the marks turn into penalties

Once the judges have given their marks to a rider and horse combination, they will be added up to give a total for that test.

The total is turned into a percentage – so for example, if the pair score 130 out of 200, their percentage is 65%. The penalty score is calculated by taking the percentage away from 100, so a pair who scored 65% have a penalty score of 35. Higher percentages turn into lower penalty marks, so the lower the final score, the better the performance in eventing dressage scoring.

If there is more than one judge, the final score is an average of their marks.

Eventing dressage scores are presented to one decimal place on the final results; there are detailed rules about how many decimal places are taken forward at each stage of the calculation.

History of eventing dressage scoring: the coefficient

FEI eventing dressage scoring used to involve a coefficient, which made calculating the scores a little more complicated and had the overall effect of spreading the dressage scores out more, so making the dressage more influential in comparison to the other phases. The scoring system was changed in 2018 to remove the coefficient.

You might also be interested in:

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Horse & Hound’s essential guide to eventing penalties

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Everything you need to know about eventing at the Olympics

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Horse & Hound’s useful guide to eventing levels in Britain

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The British Eventing points system: how it works

Here we explain the eventing points system to help you get your head around it...

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

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.

British Eventing gives riders more time to upgrade their body protectors

Becky Murray — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 17:32:38 +0000

British Eventing (BE) has announced a six-week grace period on its new body protector rule owing to supply shortages.

Eventers now have until 8 April to update their British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) 2009 level three body protector to the new BETA 2018 standard. At BE competitions body protectors are mandatory in the cross-country phase, and over solid fences in arena eventing.

From 1 January 2024, body protectors that had the former BETA 2009 safety certification were no longer permitted, but yesterday (26 February) BE announced a grace period.

“Following feedback from members, and subsequent conversations with BETA, BE has been informed that there is a supply issue being seen by some in relation to the new level three blue BETA 2018 standard body protector,” said a BE spokesman.

“With this in mind, we have agreed with our insurers that a six-week grace period can be put in place. This means that all body protectors, being worn at any BE event, will need to be of the level three blue BETA 2018 standard by no later than Monday 8 April 2024.”

The spokesman added that BE will be carrying out spot checks at events from this date to ensure compliancy.

Riders who are required to wear a body protector for Pony Club and British Riding Club (BRC) activities must still abide by the 1 January rule change and wear the BETA 2018 standard.

Marcus Capel, Pony Club chief executive, told H&H the organisation is aware there is an issue with some suppliers, but this is understood to be “very short term”.

“The new body protector ruling has been in place for a couple of months now. At our very successful Barrier Animal Health Spring Festival final at Arena UK this weekend there were no issues reported of a shortage of body protectors,” he said.

“On balance, therefore, the Pony Club is not going to set up a grace period for the body protector rule and will maintain its position that a BETA 2018 standard body protector is needed for all cross-country and pony racing activities.”

A BRC spokesman told H&H: “Throughout all BRC riding activities, good safety practices are of paramount importance. This includes the mandatory requirement to wear a body protector when participating in any of our cross-country competitions, or training activities, where fixed fences are in use.

“As per the 2024 BRC handbook, and in line with current BETA standards, our rules continue to state that our participants need to wear a BETA level three body protector which displays a blue 2018 label.”

Horse & Hound’s essential guide to eventing penalties

Pippa Roome — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 16:30:21 +0000

How are eventing penalties allotted? Here is Horse & Hound’s essential guide to help you understand how horse trials are scored…

The basics of eventing penalties

Eventing has three phases. The dressage is always the first phase. At one-day events, the showjumping normally comes next, followed by cross-country, although at some international events the showjumping is the final phase, after cross-country. At three-day events, the showjumping is always the final phase.

The aim is to finish on the fewest possible penalties; the lowest score wins.

Where it starts: eventing dressage scoring

The competition starts with the dressage, where a judge or judges mark each pair. The individual marks for each movement are converted into a penalty score. No one ever scores zero in the dressage – a mark below 20 would be considered exceptionally good and marks between 20 and 30 are generally competitive, depending on the level of competition, the field and the conditions.

It is possible to score zero in both the showjumping and cross-country phases; if a rider scores zero in both jumping phases, this is known as “finishing on your dressage score” or “keeping a clean sheet”.

Most common eventing penalties in jumping phases

If a horse and rider clear all the obstacles in the showjumping in the right order at the first attempt and finish within the time allowed, they will avoid any penalties in this phase.

The most common penalties that riders pick up in the showjumping phase are:

four penalties for each fence down
four penalties for first disobedience (such as a refusal, run-out or circle)
eight penalties for second disobedience anywhere on course (in national competitions; in international competitions, the second disobedience results in elimination)
elimination for third disobedience anywhere on course
elimination for a fall
one penalty for every commenced second over time allowed

Similarly to the showjumping, a horse and rider who clear all the obstacles on the cross-country in the right order at the first attempt and finish within the optimum time will avoid any penalties in this phase.

The most common penalties that riders pick up in the cross-country phase are:

20 penalties for first refusal, run-out or circle at obstacle
40 penalties for second refusal, run-out or circle at same fence
elimination for third cumulative refusal, run-out or circle at novice or above (and in all FEI competitions) or fourth cumulative refusal below novice level
elimination for third refusal, run-out or circle at same obstacle
elimination for a fall
0.4 of a penalty for every commenced second over the optimum time
0.4 of a penalty for every commenced second in excess of 15 seconds under the optimum time

Note that circling anywhere on the showjumping course will be penalised as a disobedience, but circling between obstacles is permitted on the cross-country.

A circle only results in penalties across country if it happens between elements of a combination which are numbered as one fence using a, b, c and so on. If the obstacles are separately numbered, circling is allowed between them without penalties, although a rider will be penalised if he is deemed to have presented his horse at a fence and the horse avoids jumping it.

Eventing penalties in national and international competitions

Eventing is administrated at both national and international level. In Britain, national classes come under the auspices of British Eventing (BE) while all international classes worldwide are run under FEI rules. Broadly speaking, scoring is done in the same way under both BE and FEI rules, but there are a few differences, such as the fact a second refusal in the showjumping is penalised with elimination at FEI events, as detailed above.

There are also no penalties for breaking a frangible device across country in BE competitions, but 11 penalties are given in FEI events for activating a frangible device where the dimension of the fence is modified.

In FEI competitions, horses receive 15 penalties for missing a flag across country, while in BE events, there are no such penalties – if a horse is judged to have missed a flag, it has effectively run-out and needs to be re-presented to the fence, carrying 20 penalties. If the rider continues on course without re-presenting, the combination will be eliminated.

Eventing penalties in team competitions

Most eventing team competitions are for teams of three or four, with the best three scores in each team to count. The total penalties from each of the three combinations are added together to give the team score, with the team with the fewest penalties winning.

The Olympics

The Tokyo Olympics in 2021 ran with a three-to-a-team and all to count format. The 2024 Olympic eventing format used in Paris will be the same. Teams consist of three combinations and a reserve, who may be called into the team as a substitute, and riders and horses are allowed to continue the competition in some cases which would normally result in elimination.

‘The system could not cope’: balloting returns for entries to popular horse trials

Lucy Elder — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 13:50:41 +0000

Horse trials organiser BEDE Events has ditched “first come, first served” entries for its fixtures and is returning to balloting as British Eventing’s (BE) system is not yet ready to cope with the expected surge in demand.

BEDE Events counts Oasby, the Eventing Spring Carnival at Thoresby and Osberton Horse Trials among its roster.

Oasby (7 to 10 March 2024), one of the first events of the season, has historically balloted heavily. Last year, BEDE trialled a first come, first served approach instead, and the demand overwhelmed BE’s system. The 2023 event was later abandoned owing to snow.

“Despite our enthusiasm for change and to move areas of the sport forward, we will be moving back to a ballot system for entries as per the British Eventing rules,” said BEDE director Stuart Buntine.

“We had hoped that changes to the BE entries systems would be in place for the start of the 2024 season, however this has not been possible and as we saw last year the system could not cope with the surge in volume for first come, first served entries.

“This will undoubtedly come as a disappointment to many who felt that the first come, first served system offered confidence in their entry and allowed them to plan in advance without the risk of either not gaining their entry or having the day of competition changed.

“We will continue to work with British Eventing to support the development of a more robust system, in order for a first come, first served approach to be adopted.”

In 2022, BE announced plans to scrap the ballot system for 2023 as part of an overhaul of the fixtures calendar to modernise the sport. But this has been delayed.

Last week (18 January) BE revealed that it has built a “virtual waiting room”, so people waiting to enter will know where they are in the queue and which it hopes will help alleviate issues on first come, first served entries in future.

BE chief executive Rosie Williams said: “While the objective is to modernise our incumbent entries system, the complexity of eventing means it is a considerable technical challenge.

“We rely heavily on the partnerships we have with our organisers and we look forward to continuing the work we have been doing with Stuart and others to achieve our aim.”

Oasby entries open on 29 January and the ballot date is 6 February.

‘Events can’t run on entry fees alone’: new abandonment fund for extreme weather

Becky Murray — Mon, 22 Jan 2024 18:03:09 +0000

Detail of how British Eventing’s (BE) abandonment support fund will work have been confirmed – alongside a number of rule changes ahead of the start of the season.

Last month BE announced a new fund that will provide competitors with “discretionary goodwill payments” of up to 60% of the entry fee, when uninsured events abandon owing to extreme and/or adverse weather conditions. BE pledged a £75,000 initial contribution, and the remainder will be funded by a 5% surcharge on all competitors’ entry fees, plus 2% of entry fees by organisers of events that do not have their own abandonment insurance policies (news, 14 December).

BE has confirmed that this 5% levy will be payable by the competitor at the time of entry, and “treated in the same way as the start fee”, so if a competitor withdraws before starting the event it will be refunded in full.

“If a competitor starts in the event, subsequently withdraws and the event later weather-abandons, the competitor may be eligible for a goodwill payment. The competitor levy is payable in relation to all entry fees, whether or not the fixture is an insured fixture,” reads the rule.

BE states that in the event “BE determines that the fund is unable to meet the anticipated goodwill payments, BE reserves the right to vary the amount of any payment offered by the fund”.

The fund will not provide goodwill payments to competitors at insured events – but BE will reduce the affiliated fee payable by the organiser in respect of each entry where an insured event abandons owing to weather. All other events “may be eligible” for support from the fund for weather abandonment after the ballot date or 21 days before the event.

“BE will also reduce the affiliation fee payable by the organiser in respect of each entry where an uninsured event weather abandons,” the rule states.

In the event that an uninsured event abandons to weather, the organiser is liable to refund only the proportion of the entry fee set out by BE. If the fund does not make any goodwill payment for any reason, the competitor will receive only the refund contribution payable by the organiser.

On 19 January Weston Park organisers announced that the event had come to a close, having been quoted a 24% premium to cover the sum being insured for its spring and autumn events. This year would have been the event’s return to the calendar, having not run since 2022.

“The financial risks of running a greenfield site event with the added burden of being sandwiched between two FEI events with no chance of a change of date puts us under financial pressure,” said the organisers Janet and Vicky Plant.

Janet told H&H that even with the new BE abandonment fund, “although entry fees are extremely expensive, events cannot run on entry fees alone”, and if an event abandons there is still the “financial stress” of repaying sponsorship, trade stands, start fees, gate admission and service contracts.

“We have to be able to ensure all these other things are paid back, otherwise the following year they’re not going to come back and support you,” she said.

“It’s also the fact that many insurance underwriters are not taking on outdoor activities because they’ve had such a terrible time with huge losses because of the weather. I think there’s more to the problem and a lot of people who need to pay reasonable sized rents will not be able to sit back and say, ‘We can swallow this’, because we can’t.”

Janet added that there still needs to be more communication between BE, organisers and riders – and she believes that more events could be forced to cancel for financial reasons.

“We still have Chillington Park in June and September, which is fabulous, but that, like all other events going forward, is going to be tricky. Once the new abandonment fund is empty, what happens then? We are really afraid that if March is bad weather, that fund could be wiped out very quickly.”

BE chief executive Rosie Williams told H&H BE had “extensive conversations” with Weston Park and they are unable to move to a different date “due to constraints from their land owners”, combined with “significant increases in ground rent, all of which has made things too challenging for them to run”.

In other rule changes for 2024, entry fees for national classes will increase by 8%, and those for international classes by 12%.

“We have met with the organiser groups, and they have requested an increase in event entry fees to help them to continue to run viable events in an environment of ever-increasing base costs,” said a BE spokesman.

“We are conscious of the costs of sport in this climate, but we also need to ensure that our organisers are running viable events.”

Downgraded horses may now compete at the grassroots championships at Bramham and Badminton. Riders may not have completed at intermediate level or higher.

Ms Williams said this decision was made following discussions with “all stakeholder groups”.

“These discussions were the result of feedback and requests from members with horses who, for example, may have been awarded a single point many years previously or who may not have even competed at all for many years,” she said.

The continuing performance requirements have been amended; a horse who has four eliminations, of any type, within a 12-month rolling period may not compete again at that level or the highest level at which the eliminations were incurred until a minimum eligibility requirement round has been completed. This was previously three eliminations.

Ms Williams said: “Following the latest end-of-season data analysis it was decided that the continuing performance requirements in respect of cumulative refusals could be relaxed as per our new rule.”

New vaccination rules require that the timeframe for any new primary vaccination course be that the first booster is administered within six months and 21 days of the second vaccine. In addition, any horse competing should have had a booster within six months and 21 days of competition.

“Our event calendar is notably complicated because we often have international and national classes happening at the same venue on the same day,” said BE chief veterinary officer Ali Butler.

“While some international venues have stabling on site and we can keep the stabling separate, others don’t for short format, and horses are travelling and stabling elsewhere with horses competing under national rules and therefore different vaccination statuses.

“We are also doing this in the horses’ best interests and to give them the optimal immunological protection when at the highest risk; that is, during the competition season.”

British Eventing CEO Rosie Williams: ‘Running a sport’s governing body is as challenging as competing at five-star’

Pippa Roome — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 10:14:18 +0000

British Eventing’s new CEO Rosie Williams, whose past roles include national sports manager for the Australian Equestrian Federation and CEO of the Rugby Football Union for Women in England, shares her thoughts on problems, priorities and plans

During the interview process, I was well briefed on the problems British Eventing (BE) has faced, such as the IT project, finances and challenging relationships. The board and chairman Mark Sartori were very open, so I took this job last September with my eyes wide open.

I’ve been involved in sport for many years and it would be naive to think any national governing body is perfect because they are complex and difficult to manage – one minute you’re a human resources expert, the next you’re speaking to lawyers, then to volunteers or insurers.

Some of BE’s challenges were on a bigger scale than I expected, but most of them are not unusual in a sporting environment.

First priorities

Event abandonment was a major priority last autumn. I think we have landed on a good solution with the new Abandonment Support Fund, which aims to give competitors a goodwill payment of up to 60% of their entry fee if an uninsured event abandons due to weather. It hopefully means everyone wins a little bit, rather than anyone wins a lot.

Viability of events is a major challenge – there is concern about the perceived shrinking calendar, but if members are not prepared to enter BE events, that’s inevitable.

When the 2024 list was released, people asked about particular missing fixtures – that’s an eventing-in-Britain issue insofar as the organiser has found their event isn’t viable or for another reason they can’t deliver, but it’s not an issue with BE as an organisation.

The unaffiliated market is a threat to core BE events, and competition – from either unregulated fixtures or different formats, such as Twenty20 versus test cricket – is something we see in many sports.

It’s the responsibility of the governing body to provide safe, correctly regulated sport and it’s important we explain what people get for their membership. Eventing is an expensive sport and we’ve got to make sure the product is right.

A grassroots competitor told me last season that her membership cost half what her numnah cost, which puts the membership fee into perspective.

Youth programmes are a focus – we’ve worked a lot on the top end, but we need to ensure eventing is an equestrian sport of choice for people, no matter what their talent. We need to make it fun.

Some things will take time

We have to get a handle on BE’s governance, our technology and the way we do things, but that will take time. One of my challenges has been pressure to make decisions quickly based on anecdotes – it’s amazing how many people will phone up, but are reluctant to commit to more detail in an email.

Eventing is many people’s passion; managing sport is my profession. I’m not going to flip-flop between decisions, which means I have to take my time, do research and talk to multiple people rather than acting on one opinion.

You can’t find a magic solution in four months to a 10-year problem, particularly in an organisation with finite resources. You have to engage people to take them with you and get them to volunteer their time.

The board have done an incredible job steadying the ship between CEOs. Now my job is to go forward, to change both real problems and negative perceptions of BE. My ask is that everyone comes with us on the journey. Pippa Funnell nailed it when she said you can’t moan from the sidelines, you’ve got to be part of the solution.

Looking forward

My first four months at BE have been positive – there are challenges but nothing is insurmountable if everyone is prepared to give a little bit. It’s as difficult to run an organisation as it is to compete at a five-star!

Eventing is very welcoming and I’m looking forward to next season, to meeting people, hearing their stories, re-engaging riders who have drifted. We’ll be praying to the weather gods a lot – and of course hoping for gold medals in Paris.

● What are you looking forward to in eventing this year? Write to hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and county, for the chance to have your thoughts published in a future edition of Horse & Hound magazine

This exclusive column will also be available to read in Horse & Hound magazine, in shops from Thursday11 January, 2024

Date changes, replacements, and the return of events: British Eventing 2024 fixture list released

Becky Murray — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 12:09:07 +0000

British Eventing has released its 2024 fixtures list, with date changes, replacements, and the return of two historic Scottish venues on the cards.

The eventing season will kick off on 2 March at Epworth (1), South Yorkshire, and Poplar Park, Suffolk.

Weston Park makes a “welcome return” to the calendar on 6-7 April, with classes from novice to advanced, an additional day of cross-country has been added to Cirencester (1) 22-24 March, and Oxtalls (1) will replace Goring Heath for 2024 over the Easter weekend 29 March-1 April. In the southwest, Kingston Maurward College, Dorset, has joined the calendar with classes from BE80 to BE100 on 29-30 June.

Osberton International (1) 3-5 May is a replacement for Rockingham, which announced this year that it would not return in 2024. Osberton will hold national classes from BE100 to intermediate, and CCI2-S, CCI3-S, and CCIP2*. Chatsworth will host the British leg of the Nations Cup in May for a second year running, and the organisers of Epworth (2) are “stepping up as a permanent replacement” for Speetley in June.

A welcome addition to the calendar is the return of Scottish events Brechin Castle and Oatridge. Brechin, which last ran in 2012, will hold classes from BE80 to BE100 on 4 May, and Oatride, which last ran in 2011, will hold BE80 to BE100 on 29 to 30 June. The Scottish calendar has seven fixtures, with Glamis Castle and Floors Castle not returning in 2024.

Other notable points include date changes for 2024. Badminton will take place 8-12 May, and Burghley 5-8 September.

“This year’s calendar has been particularly challenging due to both Badminton and Burghley moving their dates which has had a huge knock-on implication for the rest of the fixtures for 2024 and 2025,” said a BE spokesman.

“We have worked hard with organisers to create the most fair and balanced schedules as possible.”

Burghley director Martyn Johnson told H&H Defender Burghley’s cross-country day is always the first Saturday in September.

“1 September is a Sunday this year, and so every now and then we have to move back a week in order for cross-country day to happen in September, otherwise the event would creep further and further into August,” he said.

Other date changes include Bovington moving to 20-21 April, Tweseldown (2) moving to 10-12 May, Little Downham (2) to 3-4 August, Hopetoun (2) with regional championships to 3-4 August, and Chard Equestrian to 31 August-1 September.

The BE spokesman said owing to “reasons beyond the control of the organisers” South of England (2) has had to move to 21-22 September for 2024 only, and this means it will not run any FEI classes.

“A replacement will be announced early in the new year,” said the spokesman, adding that the BE fixtures committee has circulated an expression of interest to existing organisers in the hope that the South of England minimum eligibility opportunities can be replaced.

“This move was enabled due to the organisers of Munstead kindly agreeing to move to the last week in September to help South of England, a splendid example of organisers working together to give members the best opportunities as possible.”

The BE spokesman added that organisers of Horseheath, Floors Castle, Richmond, Speetley, Somerford Park and Warwick Hall are “unable to run this year for various reasons, but we trust that the exciting additions to the calendar will make up for those lost”.

The full fixtures calendar can be viewed at: www.britisheventing.com/events

‘We need to progress’: dark breeches to be allowed in all phases of eventing

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 12:51:05 +0000

Eventers on both sides of the Irish Sea will be able to wear dark breeches in all three phases of competition next year.

Eventing Ireland (EI) announced this week that competitors could wear dark breeches at national and training competitions. British Eventing, which has allowed the same for cross-country for some years, confirmed to H&H that this will apply in all phases from next season.

“As part of Eventing Ireland’s commitment to its diversity, inclusion and equality policy, at its recent meeting, the board discussed the subject of whether Eventing Ireland should follow other sporting bodies and clubs, such as British Riding Clubs, British Dressage and multiple national governing bodies in soccer, as well as national clubs, and give our athletes the choice to compete in dark-coloured jodhpurs at national and training competitions,” an EI spokesman said.

EI cited data from the Women’s Sports Federation showing that half girls drop out of sport before the age of 20, and that a main reason is “insecurity and feeling self-conscious about their bodies”. It also referred to a Women in Sport study, in which teenagers said reasons for giving up on their sports included body image, puberty and fear of judgement, and a 2021 Adidas survey that found “one in four girls drop out of sport during adolescence, citing fear of period leakage”.

EI asked members their opinions and “a resounding 78.5%” were in favour of the change.

Chair Niki Potterton told H&H: “Following the results of the survey, it was a unanimous board decision to bring in this rule for 2024. We are all about inclusivity and we need to progress as a sport, and this is the first step. We understand we are the first equestrian body in Ireland to introduce this rule and hope others will follow.”

Any solid colour including white, and white with a dark seat, will be allowed.

A BE spokesman told H&H: “We can confirm that BE will be allowing navy and black breeches in all three sections in all classes. Full details will be announced in the new members’ handbook.”

Looking for dark breeches suitable for eventing? We can help…

Ariat Prelude Breeches | Save 44% at Naylors
~~Was £110~~ Now £61
These full-seat breeches have Ariat’s Core Control technology, which smooths the midsection and offers a sleeker, slimmer profile.View Deal

Montar Echo Breeches | Save 36% at GS Equestrian
~~Was £119.95~~ Now £77.06
These water-repellent breeches have been designed to adapt to your body as move and feature and full silicone-print seat.View Deal

LeMieux Freya Breeches | Save 22% at Naylors
~~Was £89.95~~ Now £69.97
These breeches have a lightweight feel while the supportive high waist keeps you covered. They also have a full silicone seat.View Deal

Abandonment fund, new charity and fixtures: British Eventing back on track after ‘facing going broke’

Lucy Elder — Mon, 11 Dec 2023 18:20:29 +0000

British Eventing (BE) has made its first profit in almost 10 years and has outlined plans to involve young people better in helping shape the sport’s future.

The news came in the release of the governing body’s 2022 accounts (H&H online, 29 November) and was a main point of discussion at the 2023 AGM (8 December).

BE’s problem-strewn multi-million-pound IT transformation project was written off in one final financial hit in its 2022 accounts. BE is expected to make a profit in 2023 and is taking a significant focus on the way the organisation is run.

Other major news included the fact that BE is launching another new, separate, charity – the BE Training Fund (BETF) – to focus on training and coaching. BE also shared news of its new abandonment fund, 2024 fixtures list, plus how it plans to support and educate volunteers better.

BE chairman Mark Sartori told the meeting “massive progress” has been made this year, thanking the board, new chief executive Rosie Williams and former CEO Helen West.

“This is a governing body that was basically facing going broke,” he said. “We’ve come on as a board to sort out the governance, to sort out the business model and the finances and the criticism we will always get from our members is, ‘You’re turning into a business’. Well, we are a business and we need to be sustainable.”

The fixtures list had gone out to organisers that day, so was not yet public at the time of the meeting. But the AGM heard that there are new and returning fixtures to the calendar for 2024, including the return of Weston Park.

The controversial decision ahead of 2023 to not allow events running international classes to host unaffiliated fixtures remains under the spotlight.

“We’re going to be doing a big piece of work this year to ascertain the difference and the challenges that the unaffiliated, unregulated market brings,” said Ms Williams, adding that this market “could be perceived as a threat to the BE core offer”.

“In principle, we want to ensure that there’s an event and eventing opportunity for everybody, but I will have to take my time in terms of looking at the unaffiliated, unregulated market,” she said.

Ms Williams spoke of the need to invest in a “modern education system” for riders, coaches, officials and to upskill volunteers. She highlighted the “incredible” number of people who have already applied to be part of a new eventing national youth forum and help shape eventing’s future.

“The future is in these young people. A sport like eventing is a tough ask to stay in as a young person. So we need to speak to the young people,” she said.

Abandonment insurance, which has been a bone of contention in affiliated eventing for many years, is still a hot topic.

At the end of 2021, BE decided to scrap its “poor value for money” blanket policy to mixed reaction, meaning that organisers could seek their own or self-insure, alongside BE’s minimum refund policy. Then in May this year, following the washout spring, BE announced that it would be conducting a “full stakeholder review” of abandonment insurance.

Ahead of the AGM, BE revealed a new fund, billed as “not a form of insurance”, which will give competitors a goodwill payment of up to 60% of the entry fee at BE’s discretion, if an uninsured event is forced to abandon. This will come partly from the fund and partly from the organisers. Events remain free to take out their own abandonment insurance policies instead.

A BE statement on 7 December said based on an estimated £1.4m insurance policy, members would have been asked to pay an additional 20% on top of their entry fee “which we felt was simply not sustainable”.

Instead, BE has pledged £75,000 as a starting sum for its abandonment fund. The rest will be funded by a 5% surcharge on all competitors’ entry fees, plus 2% of entry fees by organisers of events that do not have their own abandonment insurance policies.

In response to pre-submitted questions from members at the AGM, Ms Williams said: “There will be more detail to come. However, we have, I think, come up with a very good solution that gives value to the members and to the organisers as well and finds that really delicate balance between those two.”

H&H has asked for confirmation of whether the 5% payable by competitors will be on top of their entry fee, and how BE will ascertain which events/competitors are prioritised for refunds if the cost of payouts exceeds the amount in the fund. H&H has also asked if BE may pay out to abandoned events for their costs, or if it will only be to competitors for their entry fees.

A former BE abandonment fund paid out £788,000 in 2007 and nearly £700,000 in 2008. It was replaced by an insurance policy in 2009, which coincided with a 10% rise in entry fees to pay for the premium. The idea was that competitors would still get refunds, but that BE would no longer risk having to pay out huge sums.

British Eventing marks end of multi-million pound ‘IT debacle’ with hopes of first profit in nearly 10 years

Lucy Elder — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 14:18:13 +0000

British Eventing (BE) will make a profit in 2023 for the first time in nearly a decade at the “end of the IT debacle”, and a new plan for abandonment insurance is in the pipeline.

The update came from BE chairman Mark Sartori as the governing body released its accounts for 2022.

Millions of pounds have been sunk into BE’s problem-strewn IT project in recent years, which has had a significant impact on the governing body’s finances.

Mr Sartori said that the release of the 2022 accounts “marks the end of the IT debacle as we are taking all the remaining write-offs in one hit”.

“This means we can start to move forward with a much more accurate and cleaner set of accounts,” he said.

“It is imperative that our members understand that this huge write-off does not affect our cash position at all, which remains strong.

“The most important factor to highlight to you is that in 2023 BE will make a profit [for] the first time in nearly a decade, which marks the start of our planned financial turnaround.

“The huge changes we have made were absolutely vital to ensure BE remained a going concern and we have started to lay the foundations for a sustainable and successful long-term future for BE.”

Mr Sartori added that the challenges the new board and management team inherited “cannot be underestimated” and said that those involved in the work to “get BE back on track” have “saved BE from going broke”.

“[They] have also started the journey to make BE sustainable and actually get back to governing the sport,” he said.

H&H has previously reported extensively on BE’s IT project woes. In August 2020, it was estimated that the transformation project had cost an estimated £2.75m to date.

A statement on the account sheets said the board had “critically reviewed the progress and benefits” of the IT project.

“Since the inception of the project the benefits have failed to materialise and the costs of maintaining the systems have increased, further eroding benefits,” said the statement.

“As a result of this, the IT team at British Eventing have begun a process of replacing the system with off-the-shelf components sooner than originally anticipated.”

Abandonment insurance has been another hot topic on the British eventing circuit in recent years.

Mr Sartori said BE chief executive Rosie Williams is in the “final stages” of presenting plans to stakeholders for approval, and will update members “as soon as this is finalised”.

“This season brought along many challenges, none more so than the extreme weather,” he said.

“With the wettest spring in over 40 years, we are reviewing our abandonment insurance position and working with all our stakeholders for a solution that benefits everyone.

Latest from Horse & Hound in British-eventing

Five-star campaigners and gold medallists among British squad for first under-25 eventing World Championships

You may also be interested in:’

‘It’s about opening doors’: new BE Lite initiative to encourage people into eventing

You may also enjoy reading:

‘Viability is always a tight balance,’ says British Eventing CEO Rosie Williams

Event challenges

Vital training

You might also enjoy reading:

Everything you need to know about body protector standards –and what’s accepted for your discipline

What are the current body protector standards?

BETA level 3 (2018)

What about BETA level 3 (2009)?

CE marks

What are the different levels of body protector?

Shoulder protection standards

You might also like:

Horse & Hound’s useful guide to eventing levels in Britain

British Eventing (BE) levels

BE80

BE90

BE100

Novice

Intermediate

Advanced

Open classes and age-restricted sections

Interim levels

Useful links

FEI eventing levels

One-star

Two-star

Three-star

Four-star

Five-star

Useful links

You may also be interested in:

The major UK horse trials that eventing fans shouldn’t miss in 2026

Major UK horse trials to visit in 2026

Thoresby Park International Eventing Spring Carnival

Barefoot Retreats Burnham Market Horse Trials

Mars Badminton Horse Trials

Belsay Horse Trials, supported by Barbour

Bicton Horse Trials

Bramham Horse Trials

Aston-le-Walls Horse Trials, sponsored by Project Pony

Burgham Horse Trials

NAF Five Star Hartpury Horse Trials

Scone Palace Horse Trials

Defender Burghley Horse Trials

Cornbury House Horse Trials

Agria Blenheim Horse Trials

Childéric Saddles Little Downham Horse Trials

You may also be interested in:

Eventing rule changes for 2026 – what you need to know about voice aids in dressage, tack rules and flag penalties

British Eventing rule changes 2026

Voices in dressage tests

Pulling yourself up across country for safety reasons

Water trays in showjumping

Tack rules

Option to run British open championships at four-star

Jumping fences after retirement in showjumping

Continuing before the bell after being stopped in showjumping

Eligibility for BE80 championships

Qualifying after the ballot date

Cross-country falls on the flat

Vaccinations

Coaching sessions for those whose riding gives cause for concern

Electric and push bikes

FEI eventing rule changes 2026

Flag penalties

Dressage scoring

Blood rules

Whip rules and sanctions

Horses acting as schoolmasters

Dress and kit mistakes in dressage

You may also be interested in:

10 competition legal whips in a variety of styles for every discipline

Competition legal whips: what are your options?

Woof Wear Stealth Jump Bat

Shires ProCush Showjumping Whip