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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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H&H has been told the UK Sport lottery funding, which goes towards developing elite riders for championship success in showjumping, dressage, para dressage and eventing, ‘is secure’ despite the postponement of the Olympics and sport coming to a halt due to the coronavirus...

Positive news from the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) indicates its UK Sport funding is unlikely to be immediately affected by the coronavirus pandemic, provided certain criteria are met.

Lottery funding is allocated, via UK Sport, in Olympic cycles and goes towards developing elite riders for success in showjumping, dressage, para dressage and eventing.

While sport is on hold and Tokyo 2020 postponed for a year, UK Sport announced on 19 March that it will “generally not seek to recover any financial investment in the World Class programme”, provided criteria surrounding government guidance and minimising financial losses are met.

UK Sport chief executive Sally Munday confirmed this on 24 March, adding: “I’d like to take the opportunity to reassure sports that our guidance remains in place, that we will not seek to recover any financial performance investment or athlete performance awards due to disruption caused by Covid-19.

“We also realise [Tokyo 2020’s postponement] has significant financial implications for our high-performance system and we are working hard to identify the wide-ranging impacts and scenarios, and are in close contact with government to establish how best to support our summer Olympic and Paralympic sports and athletes to be ready for the Games when they do take place.”

A BEF spokesman told H&H funding “is secure” for the remainder of this cycle.

The spokesman added the BEF is in the process for bidding for the 2024 Games cycle’s funding in the usual way, and has had no indication from UK Sport that the cycle length (four years) will change owing to the postponement of the Games.

“As you can appreciate, the team are working carefully on budgets to make sure all eventualities are covered,” she said.

“At this stage, we don’t know exactly what the plans will be. I’m sure in due course, UK Sport will give us an update on the award process as obviously medal targets were part of the bid (for every sport) and we won’t have Tokyo for that.”

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The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) has appointed new World Class programme jobs, aiming for “much-needed” stability ahead of Tokyo 2020.

Eventing performance manager Richard Waygood will take on the role of performance director up to and including Tokyo, operations manager Sophie Thomas is promoted to programme leader, Event Horse Owners Association director Alex van Tuyll will support Sophie, and British Dressage communications manager Winnie Murphy will also cover the head of communications position for the BEF.

Richard said he had “no hesitation” about taking up the challenge.

“Once every four years the ultimate sporting occasion arrives and it’s everyone’s ambition to be involved and to positively influence medal-winning performances,” he said.

“We have a professional and dedicated team of riders, owners, grooms and support staff who are more than up to the task. If I can play my part in channelling ambition towards performance and ensure the athletes are in prime position for success, it’ll be mission accomplished.”

BEF interim chief executive Iain Graham said there had been a period of change and the priority is to “settle the team” and ensure athletes can focus on their performance.

“These appointments will bring much-needed stability and support for our established team and further strengthen the expertise to ensure all athletes, human and equine, are fully prepared and effectively managed to create a positive environment for medal-winning performances,” he said.

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The new performance director for the British Equestrian Federation’s (BEF) World Class programme said he is “greatly looking forward” to the journey to the Tokyo Olympics.

Gordon Burton, who is currently a performance advisor at UK Sport, “brings a wealth of experience” to the role, having worked within elite sport for 17 years.

He is the first BEF appointment who is not from an equestrian background, although equestrian and para-dressage were among his five “core portfolio sports” for the London and Rio Olympic cycles.

“I have worked with the equestrian programme since 2009 and grown a deep respect for the performances achieved through extraordinary partnerships,” Mr Burton said.

“My time working at UK Sport has also afforded me the opportunity to see excellent practice in other sporting arenas and I look forward to sharing my knowledge and network with the BEF. 

“It is a very exciting time to be leading the World Class equestrian programme as the challenges and opportunities facing the equestrian disciplines are both huge and ever changing. I am greatly looking forward to the journey to Tokyo 2020.”

The next Olympics will be the first run under new rules – including three-member teams – introduced by the FEI in a bid to see more nations competing at the Games.

BEF chief executive Clare Salmon said the appointment was the result of “extensive collaboration with the Olympic disciplines, who have been working closely with the BEF to design our ambitious plans for the cycle”.

She added: “I am delighted to welcome Gordon to the team as we embark on our journey to Tokyo. We recognise that there are lots of opportunities for us to learn from other elite sports and this is the first appointment we have made where the candidate is not from an equestrian background.

“Gordon’s work with the BEF over seven years and his background in high-performance sport strategy and sports science will be hugely valuable to the programme, as we embark on a more tailored approach to creating a highly regarded performance system.”

Mr Burton will provide leadership, management and “strategic direction” to the World Class programme in eventing, showjumping, dressage and para-dressage, and be responsible for the delivery of the BEF’s performance strategy.

His career started at British Rowing, where he was part of its coaching development programme. He then worked for GB Canoeing before his move to UK Sport. Since the Beijing Games, Gordon has worked as an advisor to many world class programmes and he took secondments with Team GB for the London and Rio Olympics.

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The BEF said the appointment comes as the World Class programme undergoes an “ambitious strategic change”.

“Gordon joins a team of world-leading coaches, practitioners and support staff, who will aim to build upon Great Britain’s London and Rio successes,” said a spokesman.

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Richard Waygood has been confirmed as the new performance manager for the British eventing team.

The news follows the announcement of Chris Bartle as performance coach — a newly created role — on Friday (25 November).

This confirms the rumours of a new coaching structure for the World Class eventing programme.

“I am very excited and feel privileged to hold the highly prestigious position of performance manager for the British eventing team,” said Richard.

“It has been a lifelong ambition, which I have dreamt about on so many occasions, having worked within the World Class programme for the last seven years and seen the dedication of the riders and staff alike, I just can’t wait to get going.”

A former riding master of the Household Cavalry, Richard has been the performance manager for the British dressage squad for the past seven years. He has ridden and been placed at four-star level and is also a top British Eventing (BE) accredited coach.

Outgoing eventing performance manager Yogi Breisner revealed in April that he planned to step down from the position after 17 years following the Rio Olympics.

David Holmes, BE’s chief executive, said they are “thrilled” to have found such an experienced team to take the eventing squad forward.

“This combination will not only help us advance our elite level athletes, but also to use their knowledge and skills to enable us to develop pathways throughout our sport so that we can produce a stronger performance culture from ponies to podium,” he added.

“As we look towards Tokyo 2020, Richard and Chris will be key for eventing to ensure the World Class team has the skills, tools and support to reach its full potential — we are excited to work with both of them as we welcome them into their new positions.”

A statement from the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) said they will also begin the process of recruiting a new performance director to replace Dan Hughes “in the next few days”. This will be joined by another new position — a head of performance support — and the organisation will also be recruiting a new dressage performance manager following Richard’s job move.

The statement added the aim of the new coaching programme will be “more individually tailored”, placing a greater focus on human and equine sports science.

It also said the organisation will be “examining opportunities to improve the collective horsepower in Great Britain”.

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Chris added it is “exciting yet daunting” to be offered the chance to train the British team.

“On the other hand it’s with sadness that I leave behind the German team and all those at the DOKR [German Olympic equestrian committee] and the German federation with whom I have worked over the last 16 years,” he said. “I am equally delighted that Richard has agreed to come on board as performance manager for eventing.

“I am looking forward to building a strong and effective partnership with Dickie [Richard] — I can’t imagine a more suitably qualified person for this position.

“I am really looking forward to building up equally strong relationships with the British riders and their home teams, the owners and the members of the support team within the World Class programme, the BEF and with British Eventing.”

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The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) is looking to recruit a new performance director for the World Class programme following the news that Dan Hughes has stepped down from his post.

A former senior Army officer and commanding officer of the Household Cavalry, Dan joined the BEF in spring 2015 and guided the British equestrian teams to multi-medal success in Rio.

Dan said: “I have greatly enjoyed my time at the BEF and in particular the challenges of qualifying, preparing for and then winning medals in Rio this summer. Ultimately however, the constant time away from my family was taking too great a toll. I would like to pay particular tribute to the athletes and staff on the World Class programme who have always strived to be the world’s best.”

Under Dan’s leadership Equestrian Team GBR’s medal haul in Rio included individual Olympic gold medals for Nick Skelton and Charlotte Dujardin and Olympic silver for the dressage team. In addition the British Paralympic squad collected team gold, six individual golds and four individual silver medals.

Clare Salmon, BEF Chief Executive said: “We greatly appreciate the efforts made by Dan and his team in the build up to and during the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and in developing the programme for the next cycle. He had a big task for 2016 and he can be rightly proud of his achievements. We wish him well in his future endeavours.”

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The BEF recently submitted its funding bid for the upcoming Olympic cycle to UK Sport and has revealed that its plans include an increased emphasis on sports science and a more tailored coaching approach in the run up to Tokyo 2020.

Clare adds: “It’s an exciting time for equestrian sport in the UK as we aim to build on Dan’s legacy from Rio. We look forward to outlining the shape of our 2020 plans once funding levels from UK Sport have been confirmed in December.”

Sarah Armstrong, the World Class programme’s head of operations and performance manager for para-dressage, will lead the World Class programme while the process of appointing Dan’s successor takes place.

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Forty-nine talented young riders have been selected for support from the British Equestrian Federation (BEF).

The riders named on the 2014-2016 UK Sport National Lottery funding World Class development programme were revealed yesterday (1 December) — and include the top young athletes from each discipline.

Dressage rider Alice Oppenheimer from Hampshire is on the programme for the first time.

“We are really looking forward to having the additional support of the World Class programme to help Alice achieve her goal of Rio,” said her mother, Sarah.

Other World Class newcomers in the discipline include Rebecca Edwards, Emily Harris, Maisie Scruton and Hayley Watson-Greaves.

They are joined for the 2015 season by Hannah Biggs, Maria Eilberg, Lara Griffith, Alex Hardwick, Olivia Oakley and Ryan Todd who have all held a place before.

In eventing the riders re-selected were: Jodie Amos, Laura Collett, David Doel, Millie Dumas, Tom McEwen and World Equestrian Games rider Harry Meade.

New faces are Sophie Beaty, Rosalind Canter, Emilie Chandler, Harry Dzenis, Sam Ecroyd, William Furlong, Flora Harris, Yasmin Ingham, Tom Jackson, Wills Oakden and Holly Woodhead.

In showjumping World Equestrian Games rider Spencer Roe, Pippa Allen, Joe Clayton, Jesscia Mendoza, Dan Neilson, Jake and Louse Saywell, George and William Whitaker remain on the programme.

Millie Allen, Holly Gillott, Emma O’Dwyer, Beth Vernon, Emily Ward and Chloe Winchester are newcomers.

In para-equestrian dressage there were six riders chosen: three newcomers Heather Bennett, Emma Douglas and Isobelle Palmer. Natasha Adkinson, Ashleigh Jones, Erin Orford remain.

“This year’s applicants raised the bar yet again and we saw some exceptional talent coming forward during our selection trials,” said Gordon Burton, the BEF’s head of performance.

“It is great to see such a depth and breadth of ability coming up through the ranks and bodes well for the future of equestrian sport in the UK.”

Riders will receive coaching and support through human and equine sports science, nutrition and sports psychology on the training pathway.

Those no longer on the development programme are: Nikki Crisp (who has progressed to the performance programme), Bobby Hayler, Gaby Lucas, Anne-Marie Perry, Zoe Sleigh, Amy Stovold, Sam Thurman-Baker, Charlotte Agnew, Dani Evans, Talia Laghzaoui, Emily Llewellyn, Willa Newton, Chloe Aston, Simon Crippen, Jessie Drea, Sam Hutton, Abigail Newbery, Tim Wilks, Katherine Cooksley, Nicky Greenhill, Natalie Povey, Annastasia Neale and Alex Sutton.

“It is important to note that if an athlete has not been selected, it does not preclude them from applying in the future, or their future selection onto the programme,” a spokesman for BEF told H&H.

“These riders may not be on the programme for a variety of reasons, they may have progressed to the performance programme, come off before the latest selection, be lacking current horse power, or personal situations changed.”

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Applications for the 2014-2015 dressage equine pathway world class programme are now open.

The UK Sport National Lottery funded programme identifies world class horses who have the potential to help GBR win medals.

Applications must be made by Wednesday 17 September.

Athletes and horses invited for the final dressage selection will be assessed on 8 and 9 October at Addington Manor.

Successful applicants will be given training sessions and have their progress measured.

➤ Visit: www.bef.co.uk

This news story was first published in H&H magazine on 11 September 2014

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Gareth Hughes and I travelled to Caen for the World Equestrian Games (WEG) test event. There are a few aspects that make this forthcoming WEG extra special for us Brits and first of these is proximity. It is just an overnight ferry ride from Portsmouth, and then a 15min drive the other side or, alternatively, a three- to four-hour drive from Calais. This means our horses won’t arrive stressed or tired as they might have done over the long distances to Kentucky or Jerez for previous Games. The travel will make all our lives easier.

It was surprising how few competitors turned up, although the Swedish team — riders and organisers — came on foot. It was an individual, not a team competition, but I thought more countries would have taken the chance to try it out.

There were so many timing and logistic issues we sorted out, such as how to avoid going through the centre of Caen on busy mornings, and it was a privilege to ride there and work out what’s what.

Certainly, the British team was represented in all aspects, and Chef de Mission Will Connell and Chef D’Equipe Dickie Waygood were there to get a handle on what to expect.

WEG will be our last trip with Will, my favourite “head master”, who leaves us to be the director of sport at the US Equestrian Federation. Best of luck, Will, and don’t let the burgers get to you!

The inside scoop — not!

I had the unfortunate job of being rider representative. It’s a job I loathe, as it involves writing a full-scale report at the end of the show (rather like homework) and listening to — or dodging — complaints, such as not enough toilets, the arena not centred and the food not French enough.

However, at least it meant I compulsorily attended a WEG briefing meeting and from that I predict this is going to be a slickly run Games. And no, I’m not giving everything away, other countries — you should have been there!

The stadium seats 10,000 and the views from and to the arena aren’t just dramatic, they’re breathtaking. There’s a tunnel that leads from the warm-up to the main arena, so each horse will be allowed an extra minute to get to the arena to allow for the crossover between one horse finishing and the next starting.

This potentially makes it easier for horses to be held out the back in the face of that strong noise that follows the star horses and riders. The crowds are also far enough away from the arena that they shouldn’t interfere with horses that tend to get stage fright.

One unfortunate aspect of the test event was that spectators weren’t allowed, so perhaps the atmosphere that an enthusiastic dressage crowd can make was lacking.

The footing we experienced was superb and will be in place now until the Games, so will be even more settled and just need a light scraping to soften the surface. Various little issues will be addressed, such as the need for more loos in the stable area. With a few rider nerves flying about during the Games, these will be much appreciated.

The stables are excellent, although they are on Astroturf, which may cause problems for the second week if muck gets trapped under it.

Book early for dinner

The town of Caen is extremely attractive with some very, very good French restaurants. A word of warning, however; managers were advising booking now to ensure tables during the Games — again, over to you Will Connell!

Though there were only 16 of us in the grand prix tour, Gareth and I managed first and second in the grand prix (pictured, above, the prize-giving on foot) and reversed the placings in the special, which ensured a nice, friendly crossing on the way home.

Big boots to fill

With David Hunt stepping down as training director after many years’ service, this is one of the vacancies to the British Dressage (BD) board that members will be voting for when the ballot boxes open on 14 July.

This post needs someone passionate about developing training systems within BD. As I see it, communication is key to this role. The training director doesn’t need to be someone you yourself would train with, nor does it need to be someone who has ridden for Team GB; it needs to be someone who can engage from grassroots to Premier League to international level. I’m tempted to think it could take several people’s experience to ensure this post is successfully filled.

Carl

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World Class performance director Will Connell has announced he is leaving the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) after this summer’s World Equestrian Games.

Will has spent 11 years in the role and co-ordinated and delivered the UK Sport National Lottery-funded World Class programme. He was also the team leader for the equestrian sports at the last 3 Olympics and chef de mission at the 2006 and 2010 World Equestrian Games.

BEF chief executive Andrew Finding said: “Will Connell has been an outstanding performance director; he has worked day and night for the cause.

“We will miss him and wish him well in his new challenge.”

Will, who was awarded an MBE after the London Olympics in recognition of his services to equestrian sport, will take up the position of director of sport for the United States Equestrian Federation.

“Being part of the journey over the last 11 years has been an honour and a privilege; London 2012 was of course the highlight but there have been many others in terms of what the programme, the riders, the horses, the owners, the staff and all those who support them have achieved,” said Will.

“I believe the programme is in a very good shape and success in Rio 2016 for the GBR equestrian teams is well mapped out.

“My immediate focus and aim is to do all I can to help Team GBR meet its UK Sport targets and deliver medals at the World Equestrian Games 2014.”

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Potential Valegros are being sought for this year’s World Class Programme dressage pathway.

Besides the reassessment of horses already on the pathway, the British Equestrian Federation is inviting applications from owners wishing for their horses to be considered.

Horses will be selected on their potential to compete at championship level grand prix, and will gain access to specialist training through the UK Sport Lottery-funded programme.

The deadline for applications is 24 April. Final selection for invited applicants will take place on 20-21 May.

➤ For further details and application forms visit: www.bef.co.uk

This article was first published in Horse & Hound magazine (27 March 2014)

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The year has got off to a flying start for three up-and-coming riders with the news they have made the elite World Class performance list.

The programme aims to provide “the best preparation to represent equestrian Team GBR”.

Michael Eilberg joins the dressage list — alongside last summer’s Olympic gold medallists — while Gemma Tattersall and Izzy Taylor have both made the eventing performance squad.

But some familiar faces — including eventers Oliver Townend, Polly Stockton and Ruth Edge, as well as para dressage’s Ricky Balshaw — have come off the list because they have not achieved the required results in competition.

“I was chuffed beyond belief to get the call,” said Gemma. “At the beginning of 2012 I was still on the development programme and clinging on for dear life, because I didn’t have an advanced horse.

“But my young horses went from strength to strength. Arctic Soul progressed from novice to three-star and then Chico Bella was sixth in the CIC*** eight- and nine-year-old class at Blenheim.”

Gemma also picked up the ride on Stormhill Kossack, finishing 10th at Pau.

Izzy Taylor delivered some impressive results last season, including seventh at Burghley with Briarlands Matilda.

Michael Eilberg was longlisted for the Olympics and he told H&H that moving up to the performance list was a boost to his ambitions.

“My aim is the European Championships with Half Moon Delphi, so to have the added funding and support is great news.”

Riders on the performance list receive what Michael described as a “network of communication and support”, including access to team vets, farriers and physiotherapists.

There is also funding to help with travel expenses, stabling at competitions overseas and veterinary issues.

Michael and Gemma are graduates of the BEF’s World Class development scheme, which identifies and develops potential top riders.

It offers regular training days and help with fitness, nutrition and planning competitions.

Michael’s sister Maria is on the development programme’s dressage list this year, while Chloe Aston and Jessica Mendoza are among the newcomers to the showjumping squad.

And eventer Charlotte Agnew — fifth at Luhmühlen with Out Of Africa last year — is thrilled to be back after a two-year absence.

“It makes you aware of all the little details, like physio and nutrition,” she said.

The Oxfordshire-based rider also benefits from lessons with Yogi Breisner.

“Everything he says is a real gem and I’m so lucky to have his input,” she added.

Riders who have not been re-selected for the programme include eventers Emily Baldwin and H&H blogger Lauren Shannon, following injuries to her top rides Zero Flight and Gentel Lux.

“It was a brilliant experience and I don’t think that will be the last time I’m on it,” said Lauren.

BEF performance director Will Connell added that, as plans for the Rio Olympics funding unfolded, he hoped to “expand the breadth of riders and horses that we support”.

Team GBR’s record medal haul at London 2012 helped to secure equestrianism an additional £4.5million funding for the Rio Olympiad.

For the full lists, visit www.equestrianteamgbr.co.uk

This news story was first published in the current issue of H&H (31 January 2013)

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Applications are invited for horses to join the World-Class Equine Pathway programme for dressage.

The programme helps the British Equestrian Federation to identify and provide support through training to elite young horses which show the necessary qualities to put Team GB on the podium.

Funded by UK Sport, the programme aims to have horses qualified to compete and challenge for medals at the 2014 World Equestrian Games (WEG), the 2016 Olympics in Rio and the 2018 WEG.

For further information and for an application form, contact january.roberts@britishdressage.co.uk.

This news story was first published in the current issue of H&H (12 April 2012)

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If you want to be successful in your chosen equestrian sport, then training is vitally important to help you and your horse fulfill your potential. While this may sound expensive, there are training opportunities which are available for free or at a subsidised rate in certain circumstances. Check out our guide below.

Training you can win

• Pony Club Championships: the British Dressage Supporters Club (BDSC) gives £100 training vouchers to the highest-placed BDSC member in each arena in the open dressage section.The Katie & Eloise Bursary is awarded to each open section winner, consisting of two days’ eventing training with Gill Watson.Also horsemanship bursaries are given for the most competent cross-country rounds – in the open, five days training with Jane Holderness-Roddam, and intermediate, £300 to spend on training.
• British Eventing’s jumping and style (JAS) series has a lesson with an elite rider or accredited trainer as the first prize in each class, with training vouchers for £500 (first), £250 (second) and £150 (third) as prizes at the final. www.britisheventing.com (select Fixtures & Results, Championships, JAS Indoor Eventing Series).
• Winning riders in the grand prix classes at Pony of the Year Show win two days’ training with a British Showjumping coach (or the next highest-placed rider if the winner has already qualified). www.britishshowjumping.co.uk/training/Pony-Of-The-Year-ScholarshipSubsidised and structured training
• The affiliated bodies all run a structured programme of training for riders, some of which is free, depending on your level, and other parts subsidised.
• British Eventing (BE) runs its under-18 training through a regional structure. There are free course-walks at all BE fixtures hosting under-18 classes and each region organises training opportunities for under-18s. www.britisheventing.com (select our sport, youth eventing, u-18 eventing programme).
• BE has recently launched an online training and education portal where riders can book a variety of courses. Some are limited to under-18s; others are open to all. www.britisheventing.com/training.
• The British Young Riders Dressage Scheme (BYRDS) delivers training to all riders aged 25 and under. There are also high performance camps for the top riders and inter-regional team contests. www.britishdressage.co.uk/under_25s.
• Training for all levels and ages is available through British Dressage, organised through eight regions round the country. There are also opportunities to take part in inter-regional and home international team competitions. www.britishdressage.co.uk/training.
• British Showjumping (BS) delivers mounted and dismounted training across the country for riders until the year of their 21st birthday through the junior academy. Non-members can take part in their first three sessions before joining BS to continue. www.britishshowjumping.co.uk/training/Junior-Academy.
• Senior riders can find training opportunities regionally through the BS website (www.britishshowjumping.co.uk/regions) and work through the NAF BS five-star performance awards programme to gain recognition for progressive achievement. A pony equivalent is currently being developed. www.britishshowjumping.co.uk/training/5-Star-Performance-.To read the full feature about funding and training see the current issue of H&H (23 February 2012)Read more about training

Do you have exceptional riding talent and the dedication to be an Olympian or Paralympian of the future?

If so you should apply to join the British Equestrian Federation’s (BEF) World Class Development Programme.

Applications to join the squad open on Friday (3 February) and close on 16 March.

The programme incorporates dressage, eventing and showjumping and para-equestrian dressage.

To be eligible you must be aged between 14 and 30 and from Great Britain or Northern Ireland.

The programme selects and supports talented riders and combinations that the BEF believes have the ability to ride for GB. Selection takes place every two years.

Full details are available from the BEF website – www.bef.co.uk – from 3 February.

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Dual European para-equestrian dressage gold medalist Natasha Baker has been promoted onto the British Equestrian Federation’s (BEF) World Class Performance Programme.

The 21-year-old from Uxbridge, west London, took individual gold in both the Grade II test and freestyle to music in Moorsele, Belgium earlier this month (2-4 September).

Her promotion from the Development Programme means that she now joins eight other elite para-equestrian athletes in the UK Sport funded squad.

Natasha, who rode Cabral at the championships, said: “The World Class Development Programme has been such a huge support to me since I was selected onto it almost ten-years-ago — I could not have got to where I am today without its help.

“I’m now really looking forward to joining the other riders on the Performance squad with the aim of furthering my medal success.”

Equestrian performance director at the BEF Will Connell said: “Natasha is focused and professional and I believe has made the best possible use of the support available through the Development Programme.”

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Under-18 national eventing champion Eliza Stoddart has been named as a ‘Go Gold’ ambassador.

The Go Gold scheme recognises young talented sportsmen and women in the Leicestershire and Rutland region.

The fund supports athletes that are still in full-time education whilst showing potential for Olympic or Paralympic success.

Eliza has been selected for the BEF’s World Class Development Programme following a successful season last year, including her first 1* win at Glanusk International on Strike A Pose.

She was also part of the silver-medal-winning eventing team at the Pony Europeans in 2008 riding Killacorran Blue. Eliza herself finished 5th individually.

Eliza, 18 from Harbourgh in Leicestershire, joins 13 other top athletes from the region to be selected for this award.

In 2009/10 125 grants were awarded varying from £250 to £1000 across 38 sports.

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Eventer David Doel told H&H he is “honoured” to be among 52 promising young riders selected for the 2011-13 British Equestrian Federation (BEF) World Class programme.

“I’m really excited — it will not only help in the short-term as I aim for the junior team again, but the funding for training will also help me to further my knowledge and to understand my horses better as I move up the ladder,” said the 17-year-old.

Funded by UK Sport, the development programme works with talented riders to “maximise their potential and deliver success”.

Twenty-one riders are new to the squad, including 31-year-old Hannah Biggs, who is on the dressage potential team.

“I’m thrilled,” she told H&H. “It was quite a tough process, but it was worth it. It will be brilliant to work with and get feedback from a top team.”

And showjumper Jemma Kirk, 22, is back on the programme after a two-year absence.

“It great to be back and have the support from the top vets, farrier, nutritionist and coaches,” she said.

Riders will be on the squad for two years, with six-monthly reviews.

Top trainers including Yogi Breisner, Clare Whitaker and Stephen Clarke were involved in the selection process, in which competition record, trainability, fitness and horsepower are taken into account.

“The system has provided the ideal platform through which to identify and nurture our top riders and those coming through in the sport,” said a BEF spokesman.

“It’s great to see several riders reselected on to the development programme as well as some new faces who have been making a name for themselves in competition through 2010.”

Will Connell, World Class performance director, added: “The selection process was carried on over a longer period of time, allowing applicants to be viewed ‘in competition’. The standard of rider applying was higher than ever and the selectors had a difficult job.

“That’s excellent news for us as a nation as it reflects the wealth of talent we have.”

Dressage

• Hannah Biggs (Dorset)
• Nikki Crisp (London)
• Michael Eilberg (Worcestershire)
• Gemma Green (Wiltshire)
• Bobby Hayler (Essex)
• Charlie Hutton (Gloucestershire)
• Olivia Oakeley (Wiltshire)
• Anne-Marie Perry (County Durham)
• Amy Stovold (West Sussex)
• Samantha Thurman-Baker (Oxon)

Eventing

• Emily Baldwin (Kent)
• Laura Collett (Wiltshire)
• David Doel (Wiltshire)
• Harry Dzenis (Surrey)
• Talia Laghzoui (Oxon)
• Emily Llewellyn (East Sussex)
• Tom McEwen (Wiltshire)
• Harry Meade (Wiltshire)
• Chloe Newton (Leicestershire)
• Willa Newton (Leicestershire)
• Emily Parker (Lincolnshire)
• Tim Rogers (Devon)
• Eliza Stoddart (Leicestershire)
• Gemma Tattersall (West Sussex)

Showjumping

• Alison Barton (West Yorkshire)
• Scott Brash (Scotland)
• Joseph Clayton (West Yorkshire)
• Simon Crippen (Buckinghamshire)
• Joe Davison (Staffordshire)
• Jessie Drea (West Sussex)
• Samuel Hutton (Southampton)
• Jemma Kirk (Scotland)
• Daniel Moseley (Nottinghamshire)
• Daniel Nielson (Essex)
• Tim Page (Suffolk)
• Gemma Paternoster (Surrey)
• Matthew Sampson (Sheffield)
• Louise Saywell (Nottinghamshire)
• Jason Smith (Scotland)
• Abbie Squires (Hertfordshire)
• George Whitaker (West Yorkshire)
• William Whitaker (West Yorkshire)

Para-equestrian Dressage

• Rosie Andrews (Surrey)
• Natasha Adkinson (South Yorkshire)
• Natasha Baker (Middlesex)
• Edward Chanin (Devon)
• Emma Kent (Kent)
• Alex McNamara (Lincolnshire)
• Erin Orford (Buckinghamshire)
• Natalie Povey (Wales)
• Alex Sutton (Wiltshire)
• Georgia Wilson (Wales)

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Some of the brightest young names in showjumping are set to compete at Olympia Horse Show this weekend.

The riders will compete in the Team Murka and World Class Programme Under-23 British Championship at the London International Horse Show, Olympia on Saturday, 18 December.

Sixteen combinations qualified for the final based on points earned at three qualifying competitions. Harriet Nuttall currently tops the league points table after winning the final qualifying competition at Addington and finishing fifth at Aintree, while Abbie Squires, Tim Page and George Whitaker lie second and equal third respectively.

These qualifiers will be joined by six combinations from the World Class programme, who are eligible for team selection. Two riders have also been given wild cards, making a total of 24 starters in this class, which has a £10,000 prize-fund.

A style prize is also up for grabs in the final, judged during the first round of the competition by two international showjumping riders, with the winner receiving a voucher to the value of £1,500 towards a saddle.

World Class Performance director Will Connell said: “I am delighted that Team Murka is associated with the U23 British Championship. I know they are committed to committed to pursuing excellence in showjumping and have a keen awareness to identify and encourage talented athletes, which is the philosophy of the World Class Programme.”

Tickets for the London International Horse Show at Olympia are still available. For further information please visit www.olympiahorseshow.com. For tickets, call the box office on 0871 230 5574.

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Time is running out to gain a place on the British Equestrian Federation’s (BEF) World Class Development Programme for next year.

The closing deadline for the first stage of the application process is 16 March.

“We’ve had loads of applications through already,” Anna Greenway of the British Equestrian Federation told H&H.

“Its always extremely popular but we welcome as many applications as possible to make sure we don’t miss out on any potential stars of the future.”

Formal selection for the programme to support talented riders with the potential to achieve internationally, only takes place every two years

Any ambitious rider, aged between 14 and 30, who is eligible to ride for Great Britain and Northern Ireland can send in a written application.

Selection, which is divided into three stages, will be based on past and present results as well as future potential.

The programme, funded by UK Sport, focuses on the three Olympic disciplines — dressage, eventing and showjumping — and the Paralympic sport of para-equestrian dressage.

“It’s all about focusing on those with the potential to be the very best,” said World Class performance director Will Connell.

For further details, visit www.bef.co.uk

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Do you think you have what it takes to be a future Olympic rider?

The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) is inviting riders aged 14-30, who think they do, to apply to join the World Class Development Programme (WCDP).

Applications for the 2011-2012 programme opened on 30 January and riders have until 16 March to apply.

“We want the aspiring William Fox-Pitts, John Whitakers, Carl Hesters and Lee Pearsons out there to get in touch with us,” said World Class Performance director Will Connell.

“It’s all about focusing on those with the potential to be the very best.”

The BEF will receive £13,382,100 from UK Sport from 2009-2013 to fund the World Class programme, of which development is the section for young riders.

Selections to the development squad take place every two years and this year the process is slightly different.

“Riders do not have to attain the selection criteria until 16 August and will be assessed at specific competitions. We shall watch them and then invite them to a selection day,” said Mr Connell.

Show jumper Matt Sampson, 20, joined the WCDP in 2004. He said: “It’s one of the best things I’ve ever done.”

For more information about the scheme and the selection criteria, go to www.bef.co.uk

This article was first published in Horse & Hound (4 February, ’10)

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Three young riders have been promoted within the British Equestrian Federation’s World Class Development Squad.

Para-dressage rider Natalie Povey and show jumpers Jessie Drea and Scott Brash all received promotions this week.

The World Class Programme incorporates the Olympic equestrian sports — dressage, eventing, show jumping as well as para-dressage.

Wrexham-based Natalie (20) has been promoted from the start to potential para-equestrian dressage programme.

She has had consistently high results throughout the year and achieved good scores at Hartpury CPEDI*** and at the KBIS Championships.

Seventeen–year-old Jessie Drea from Horsham has moved up from pre-start to start on the show jumping programme.

And Scotland’s number one show jumper Scott Brash, 23, has joined the potential show jumping programme.

“The promotion of these riders shows the depth of talent we have in this country,” said World Class Performance director, Will Connell.

“This is essential if Great Britain is to win more medals at European, World, Olympic and Paralympic level. The standard of riding on the programme continues to improve year on year.”

The World Class Programme is funded by the National Lottery via UK Sport. Selection is based on results and potential and performance is continually assessed.

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Event riders Nicola Wilson (pictured), Lucy Wiegersma and Ruth Edge, and para-equestrian dressage rider Sophie Wells are to be promoted from the British Equestrian Federation’s (BEF) World Class Development Programme to the World Class Performance Programme.

The lottery-funded World Class Performance Programme, which incorporates the Olympic sports of dressage, eventing and show jumping, and the Paralympic sport of para-equestrian dressage, provides Britain’s elite riders with the best preparation for international competition.

Will Connell, BEF World Class Performance director, said, “The promotion of these riders shows the depth of talent we have in this country. The standard of riding on the Performance Program continues to improve year on year.”

Nicola has enjoyed consistently good results since finishing 16th in her four-star debut at Badminton in 2007.

In 2008 she was placed in the top five in the British Open and Burghley, and to date has achieved top five finishes at Burgie, Bramham and Burnham Market.

Lucy Weigersma, who has ranked in British Eventing’s top ten for the last two years, came second at Badminton in 2008 and was selected to represent Great Britain in the 2008 Olympics with Shaabrak.

Although unable to compete in Beijing due to an injury, the pair are back on form, finishing 6th at Badminton this year.

Ruth Edge also has an impressive record, taking the title at the British Open Championships in 2004 and 2008, winning the Scottish Open Championships in 2006 and securing four-star victory at Luhmülen in 2004.

This year she achieved a top ten finish at Badminton, a second place at Luhmülen and a first and second place at Burnham Market.

Sophie Wells, at 19 the youngest rider on the World Class Performance Programme, became the first para rider to win an able-bodied international competition when she took the title of the Hickstead Under-21 International in 2008.

This year she has dominated the grade IV section of the Para Equestrian Dressage International competition at Hartpury, riding to victory in the individual, team and freestyle tests.

The BEF development programme is divided into start and potential squads across each discipline, and to be considered for the programme, riders must meet set minimum criteria, attend numerous ridden assessments and an interview.

Selection for the World Class Performance Programme is based on results combined with the potential of riders to contribute to team success at major championships. Following selection, riders’ performance is continuously assessed and reviewed.

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The British Equestrian Federation’s (BEF) World Class Programme has been awarded £13.6 million for Olympic sport and £3.7 million for Paralympic sport in the run up to the 2012 Olympics, UK Sport has announced today (3 December).

The money is part of funding of £292 million for the London Olympic and Paralympic Games, from April next year until to March 2013.

Andrew Finding chief executive of the BEF, said: “I am delighted that UK Sport has expressed confidence in us by their award, which amounts to £17.3 million over the next four years.

“I want to pay tribute to our management team, led by Will Connell, and the riders and owners. Collectively they have raised the game in equestrian sport and provided the evidence [to show] that we have great potential for success in 2102.

“None of this would be possible without the leadership and commitment of the boards and chief executives of British Dressage, British Eventing and the British Show Jumping Association, as well as that of our own board.

“Success is dependent upon a stable governance structure where our elite management team and our athletes, human and equine, have the freedom to excel. Now, we have to step up to the plate and deliver the medals in 2012.”

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Selectors David Trott, Judy Harvey and Nick Burton added 12 horses to the World Class Potential Elite Dressage Horse squad following Addington Manor’s viewing day (9 October).

The British Equestrian Federation set up the scheme last year to support horses with medal winning potential. There are three levels of support ranging from group training to regular home visits. All horses will be reviewed annually.

The new intake includes Ann Wilkinson and Dave Chislett’s five-year-old by Hemmingway, DCI Valkenswaard, ridden by Matt Frost, who said: “He has such power, I fell in love with him the first time I saw him. I’m ecstatic he was picked out of 50 of the best in the UK.”

Also chosen were Shadowfax (Ruth Edge) and Being Bling (Tim Sillevis), who were both highly praised by David Trott.

The other nine horses chosen so far are:

• Royal Concert (Peter Storr)
• Cocofino (Peter Storr)
• Khartoum (Rhett Bird)
• Vivaldi (Jo Barry)
• Falcao (Nicola Cooper)
• Rivaldo (Karen Shepherd)
• Der Schufro (Jacky Stolper)
• DCI Valkenswaard (Matt Frost)
• Lenox (Daniel Greenwood)
• Vanito (Hannah Esberger-Shepperd)

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Show jumping selectors are compiling a list of talented young horses to join the World Class Equine Pathway programme.

Around 75 horses are expected to be named early next month, from those talent spotted at the British Young Horse Championships at Addington (7-9 August) and from other sources.

Launched last autumn, the Pathway Programme is an initiative to identify potential talent for the London 2012 Olympics. It is funded by UK Sport Lottery money and run by the British Equestrian Federation (BEF). The show jumping Pathway is run in conjunction with the BSJA.

British show jumping team manager Derek Ricketts told H&H: “Horses are likely to be 11, 12 and 13-year-olds when they compete in 2012, so coming back five years, we’re looking ideally for seven-year-olds now. But obviously we will look at some a year younger and some a year older.”

He added: “By the age of eight, potential horses should be pretty obvious — perhaps jumping in Area Trials in England and some international shows.”

As well as scouting at Addington, BEF performance director Will Connell said he had written to “a good number of people with the reputation for bringing on young horses”.

The Pathway offers assistance to owners, riders and their home teams to help them optimise their horses’ competitive careers.

Last November, 16 horses were picked to join the Dressage Equine Pathway (news, 9 November 2006), and in February around 130 more were selected for the eventing programme (news, 1 February).

Read this news story in full in Horse & Hound (30 August, ’07)

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Around 130 event horses with Olympic potential have been selected to join the World Class Equine Pathway.

Launched last autumn, the initiative is funded by UK Sport Lottery money and run by the British Equestrian Federation (BEF), and provides support and advice for connections of horses considered possible candidates for the 2012 Olympics.

“The programme is about identifying, developing and delivering world-class performance,” said the BEF’s Will Connell.

The selected horses are being invited to special training sessions over the winter, held by British Eventing. Connections will be given advice on training, shoeing, feeding and so on.

British Eventing performance manager Yogi Breisner (pictured) identified horses for inclusion in the scheme by analysing the type of horse currently winning medals and looking at what they were doing six years ago. He then cast around for horses at that stage right now.

“I looked not so much at their breeding, but their education,” explained Yogi.

To remain on the Equine Pathway, horses must continue progressing, while new horses may join the scheme at a later date if they produce the right results.

“In eventing, we need a large base of horses for the scheme because we have to look at average performance over all three phases, and because the demands of the sport mean some horses might not get there through injury,” explained Yogi.

• This news report was first published in Horse & Hound (1 February, ’07)

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The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) has selected the first horse and rider combinations to join its World Class Dressage Equine Pathway programme.

The scheme aims to identify and develop horses to win medals for Britain, and has three levels of support.

Chairman of selection David Trott explained: “We’ll keep an eye on the first group and invite them for training. The next group will also receive home visits and training sessions, while the highest group will have more regular home visits and training.”

At each session, riders will receive a training, competition and veterinary review, and each has been given a mentor.

World Class performance director Will Connell said: “We’ve selected horses that might make the grade as well as those we’re confident will in time. I think we have a lot of good horses in this country — we just need to work to keep them here.”

Those on the World Class Start and Potential squads are not eligible for Equine Pathway, as they already receive similar support.

World Class Start and Potential manager Victoria Underwood said: “Equine Pathway is there primarily to aid young horses in their development, whereas horses on the Start and Potential schemes are more established. We’ll make a slight change to our own programme to make sure its riders’ younger horses are incorporated into their support.”

Equine Pathway also selects riders well outside the upper age limit of 30 to be considered for Start and Potential.

Fifty-six horses were invited to the recent viewing day at Addington Manor. British Dressage trainers eligible to judge young horse classes suggested some of the applicants and riders scoring more than 70% at open national championships, or more than 80% in young horse classes, were also invited.

Those selected so far include Mary Sharman (DHI Wohler), Judy Harvey (Fitzcerraldo), Nicky Barrett (Faberge), Gemma Green (Showtime), Damian Hallam (Delux) and Suzanne Davies (Rhondeo) in group one. David Trott expects to place Gareth Hughes and Sandman in the same group once the horse is back in full work.

Charlotte Dujardin (Fernandez); Rhett Bird (Renegade) and Melanie Allen (Tamberonie) were placed in group two. Group three includes Gareth Hughes (Duvie), Anona Young (Di Angelo), Garry Williams (Showmaker) and Jane Bredin (Soul Sister).

Plans and selection criteria for jumping and eventing Equine Pathways are being finalised. For more information, visit www.bef.org.uk

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Riders who want to be part of the selection process for the 2007 World Class Start and Potential programme must apply for one of the remaining viewing days in their chosen discipline.

The dates are: show jumping, 28 August-3 September at the Scope Festival; eventing, 17-19 September at Gatcombe; dressage, 14-17 September at the BD national championships; Para dressage, 15 September at the KBIS Championships.

For details, visit www.bef.co.uk or contact Debbie Lee (tel: 02476 698876).

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UK Sport has offered the British Equestrian Federation a 48% increase in funding. The Chancellor of the Exchequer recently announced extra money for sports in the run up to London 2012 and UK Sport has decided to allocate a substantial amount to equestrianism.

The BEF’s Performance Director Will Connell said: “The new funding award is excellent news and recognition of the Equestrian successes in Athens and the potential for success in the future. The significant increase will enable the programme to expand the scope of the support it delivers.”

The funding for the years 2006-9 is £9,618,000 and includes start and potential funding previously provided by Sport England. This means that the total for the current year (2006/7) is £3,112,000, an increase of £1,003,000 from £2,109,000 last year (2005/6).

“We face a unique challenge in that we have to have a world class horse performing to its potential as well as a world class human athlete,” Connell continued. “We should be in no doubt about what this money is for: medals. We need to all work together to ensure we put the money to the best possible use. This will require close co-operation with riders, coaches, owners, sports science personnel and the Federation’s Member Bodies. This is not a participation programme, it is a programme that exists to make the best better.”

Sue Campbell, Chair of UK Sport, said: “We have started a six-year process that will not just deliver medals in 2012 but help transform the high performance system in this country forever.”

The BEF is delighted that UK Sport has such confidence in the ability of equestrian athletes to deliver medals. “We must now work hard to ensure that we deliver,” BEF Board Chairman, Hugh Thomas said.

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A new format for the selection process for 2006-8 World Class Start and Potential programmes is to be implemented this year. ‘Viewing Days’ will now take place at events throughout the season prior to the selection trials in November 2006. Riders who are aged between 14 and 30 (on first application) and who think they have the talent and dedication to win at Olympic level in 2008 and 2012, can be assessed by selectors at ‘viewing’ competitions.

The programmes provide Britain’s elite riders with financial support and individual expert advice and tuition. The World Class Start programme (riders aged 14-20) is designed to support talent identification, and nurturing of that talent and the World Class Potential programme (riders aged 20-30) is designed to assist in the development of that talent. ‘Viewing days’ will enable potential recruits to be assessed in a competitive environment.

To be part of either programme all the riders not only have to show outstanding horsemanship, but also are subject to a 20-minute interview that will aim to identify his or her goals, ambition, technical knowledge and motivations.

This year, the lottery funded programmes will be run through UK Sport, rather than Sport England. The new system will put the Start and Potential programme more in line with UK Sport’s World Class Performance programme, designed to provide horse and rider with all the necessary elements to perform and win at the highest level.

Based on a template that has been successful for other Olympic sports such as rowing, the World Class programme has revolutionised the approach to human and equine sports science and given riders expert help in fitness, nutrition, sports psychology and top coaching.

To apply for the World Class Start and Potential programmes, riders must submit an application form, including references, a minimum of two weeks prior to a viewing competition. If successful, they will then be invited to viewing trials and a final selection trial in November.

Applicants are required to meet a minimum criteria, which can be found on the BEF website. Riders who have been selected to ride for Great Britain at Pony, Junior, Young Rider or Senior level, and those already on the World Class Start & Potential programme will not be required to apply for assessment at these events.

For further details about the viewing days and where they are to be held, and to download an application form go to the BEF webstite at www.bef.co.uk.

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Britain’s elite event riders of the future have been selected to receive Lottery-funded support through the 2005 World Class Start and Potential programmes.

Last year’s World Class Potential squad members — Lucy Wiegersma, Kitty Boggis, Nick Gauntlett, Ruth Edge (née Friend) and Terry Boon — have been joined by Chris King, Piggy French, Cressida Claude-Reading and Sharon Hunt. Graduates of the 2004 Start scheme, Oliver Townend and Georgie Davies have stepped up to become members of the Potential squad, which is now 11-strong.

A number of new faces have also been welcomes on to the Start scheme. Oliver Smith, Laura Collet, Francesca Ludlam, Alex Postolowsky, Tamsyn Hutchins and Victoria Mitchell will receive funding alongside former Start members Abigail Walters and Gemma Tattersall. Former Start squad member Emily Llewellyn will continue to receive some additional support as part of a peripheral programme, running alongside the World Class system.

Changes to the 2005 scheme include the introduction of a tiered system incorporating gold, silver and bronze levels within the Start and the Potential programmes. This means that while all riders on the scheme will receive the same World Class benefits, the level of individual funding will vary between the levels. These levels have been set based on the rider’s performance at the selection trials, although movement between the levels may be possible throughout the year.

The levels of support offered to the World Class Start and Potential riders are:

Potential

• WC Gold: Lucy Wiegersma, Ruth Edge, Terry Boon, Chris King
• WC Silver: Kitty Boggis, Oliver Townend, Piggy French, Cressida Claude-Reading
• WC Bronze: Nick Gauntlett, Georgie Davies, Sharon Hunt

Start

• WC Gold: Abigail Walters, Oliver Smith
• WC Silver: Laura Collet, Francesca Ludlam, Alex Postolowsky, Gemma Tattersall
• WC Bronze: Tamsyn Hutchin, Victoria Mitchell

Additional riders to be supported: Emily Llewellyn

Vikki Underwood, World Class Start & Potential Manager says: “A number of riders who were part of the 2004 programme have been re-selected, which highlights that the structure and training offered by World Class is successful and effective, but excitingly, a number of new faces have appeared indicating that the selection process continues to be consistent and fair.”

• View the World Class Start and Potential show jumping squad >>
• View the World Class Start and Potential dressage and paralympic dressage squads >>
• For more details about the World Class Start and Potential scheme visit: www.bef.org.uk

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Event riders who believe they have what it takes to win medals at future Olympic Games, but are not currently members of the World Class squads, can take part in a new talent spotting system, organised by the British Equestrian Federation.

The system will assess riders aged 14-30 for their suitability as possible members of the World Class Start and Potential eventing squads, which have been designed to help riders develop into Olympic riders over time.

Assessors will observe riders competing at affiliated events, paying particular attention to their performance on the cross-country phase. Riders will not be told at which events they are going to be assessed.

The assessments will be undertaken by selectors, team chef d’equipes and regional JRN co-ordinators, with support from Yogi Breisner, Gill Watson, Kenneth Clawson and Sarah Verney.

Vicky Kind, World Class Start and Potential Manager, explains: “To ensure the talent spotting system is open and fair, all riders will be considered, regardless of whether they are riding at pre-novice or advanced level.”

In particular riders who are planning to apply for selection to the World Class programmes later this year are being encouraged to take part in the talent spotting system, which will help to support their first round application.

Individuals who would like to take part in the scheme should send an up to date CV plus a list of the events they plan to compete at for the rest of the season to: Nikki Franck_Steier, World Class Start and Potential Assistant, The British Equestrian Federation, Stoneleigh, Kenilworth, Warks CV8 2RH or email: nicola.franck-steier@bef.co.uk

There are plans for the talent spotting system to be rolled out to include dressage and show jumping riders in the future.

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British Dressage has announced that, after a regular review, the following riders have been confirmed as members of the World Class Performance Squad 2004: Fiona Bigwood, Wayne Channon, Richard Davison, Emile Faurie, Carl Hester, Emma Hindle and Nicola McGivern.

Wayne Channon appears as a new addition to the squad following a fabulous season in 2003 on his black stallion Lorenzo CH, including scoring 70.08% in the grand prix in Brno, Czech Republic, in June and 67.83% in the grand prix at Stockholm CDI-W in November.

His selection onto the WCPP squad means that he will be given access to funding for training and travel, and the back up of the WCPP sports science, medical and veterinary teams.

Wayne, 45, took up dressage in 1991, and has put his career in high-tech and internet technology on hold to devote more time to the pursuit of his dressage career. This is clearly starting to pay off as he goes from strength to strength, and he has also been short-listed to go to Athens in August as part of the British Olympic Dressage team.

WCPP chairman of selectors, David Trott, says: “We are delighted to be able to invite Wayne to take up a place on the WCPP. He has had very good results recently with his grand prix horse Lorenzo CH.

“To give the top British combinations the best chance of producing excellent performances we will have to constantly review our plans and the focus must be the Athens Olympic Games and subsequently the European Dressage Championships 2005.”

All of the WCPP dressage riders will be competing at Addington Manor Premier League show, 7-9 May. The British Olympic dressage team will be announced following Wiesbaden, 28-30 May 2004.

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