UK equestrian sponsorship round-up

Olympic gold medallist Ben Maher has renewed his sponsorship with long-time partner Falcon Equine Feeds. Paul Ainsworth from the company first approached Ben eight years ago at the Hickstead Derby Meeting. “That week was one of the most influential weeks of my career, winning the Hickstead Derby and the Hickstead Speed Derby,” said Ben. “Paul came and found me and decided he wanted to be a big supporter of mine and I was very keen to take up the opportunity. We’ve been together ever since. It has been an eight-year long partnership. Falcon Feeds have probably been one of my longest standing supporters from the beginning of my career.”

Competitors at Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials will receive complimentary bedding from The Green Bedding Company. The bedding, which is made of hand-stripped recycled shredded cardboard, is highly absorbent, minimises odours, is non-toxic, dust and spore free. The company is supplying four complimentary bales to any competitor who would like to trial it. Stable manager for the horse trials Zanie King said: “Four free bales should make a really decent bed and is very generous of the supplier. As this is a new product I had not used it before, but I like the idea of recycling and the horses seem to like it and find it comfortable. Plus they don’t eat it, which is always a problem with straw.”

The British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) has welcomed back Equine Careers as returning sponsor of the Sales Representative of the Year award for the fourth time. This industry accolade is one of nine BETA Business Awards designed to recognise individuals and companies making a significant contribution to the equestrian industry. “Equine Careers is the only business in the industry dedicated to these types of role,” said owner Emma Dyer. “The award is a perfect opportunity for us to support BETA and the industry — and to recognise all the sales reps and agents who work extremely hard out on the road in a job that often doesn’t get enough recognition.”

Charles Owen has welcomed Nick Skelton’s sons — Dan Skelton and Harry Skelton — to its team “Charles Owen has truly enjoyed our long association with Nick, and I am so delighted to be able to extend our partnership to his sons Dan and Harry,” said Charles Owen managing director, Roy Burek “The racing industry is where Charles Owen got its start in the competitive equestrian world and I am pleased that over 75 years later Charles Owen can keep its place in the racing world with our support of great jockeys and trainers.”

Vétoquinol, the manufacturer of EQUISTRO, has agreed a new three year partnership with William Fox-Pitt. “The well-being of my horses is my first priority,” said William. “With the constant need for better performance combined with the strict regulations of the international authorities, riders really need to find the top products, both in terms of quality ingredients and high manufacturing standards. The EQUISTRO range offers specific, individualised and trusted solutions for sport and competitive horses which meets both of these requirements.”

Charlotte Dujardin will now be supported by horse care products company Absorbine. “I am thrilled at this new partnership with Absorbine,” said Charlotte. “I am a strong believer in its products, and it means a lot to have a trusted brand standing behind me as I head to the World Equestrian Games.”