Your chance to have a say on the future of equestrianism

The British Equestrian Federation wants insiders’ views on equestrianism as it aims to follow a “collective approach” to the future of the sport.

The BEF has launched a survey (link below), to find out perceptions of equestrianism and the motivation behind participants’ involvement, as part of a “strategy study to ensure it has a clear remit and direction over the next four years”.

“The UK is very much a nation of horse lovers with a proud equestrian tradition, but we know that there are many misconceptions about equestrianism and that many people are not aware of how they could get involved, whether it is as a rider, volunteer or spectator,” said BEF chief executive Clare Salmon.

“As the largest spectator sport in the UK after football, and with the heightened popularity of equestrianism following the Olympic and Paralympic Games, we have a huge opportunity to build on this latent potential and grow the appeal of horsey activities.

“We also recognise that we need to help support equestrian businesses to thrive to achieve a sustainable future for the sector and, through this process of engagement, we hope to understand their needs better.”

The results from the survey will be considered as part of a wider project, with workshops involving BEF member bodies already under way.

Another study, on “usage and attitude”, will also be launched in the near future, with the aim of understanding the underlying appeal of the sport.

“The usage and attitude study, funded by Sport England, will provide additional information on the wider marketplace, targeting both the equestrian market, as well as those not currently engaged within equestrian sport,” said a BEF spokesman.

Following users’ initial feedback on the current survey, some of the questions have been reworded.

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Related articles:

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• Live careers web chat with Reaseheath College: 1pm, Thursday 12 January
• One in nine UK horses lame, survey finds

The current survey runs until 31 January.

To take part, click here.

Eleanor Jones

H&H news editor

Eleanor is an experienced journalist who spent over eight years working for local and national newspapers before joining H&H as news editor in March 2016. Passionate about equine welfare and exposing the truth, Eleanor has reported on all aspects of the industry, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage rules to mules. Her sport of choice is showjumping, in which she competes her own horses, and she also enjoys reporting at local jumping shows through to international championships.