New hat app and safety tour to help riders
Riders unsure whether their hats conform to new competition safety standards can find out in an instant thanks to a new app.
Uses can enter the make and model of popular brands of riding hat and the Hatchecker app displays whether the hat is accepted under British Eventing, British Dressage and British Showjumping rules. British Riding Clubs, Endurance UK, the Pony Club and the British Horse Society are also covered.
Since the withdrawal of the (BS) EN1384 standard from European legislation, hats used for competition must meet different safety criteria, which vary between governing bodies.
In addition to the new app, those unsure whether their protective equipment is up to scratch can take advantage of another new safety initiative.
To mark its 125th anniversary, Harry Hall is running a “Serious About Safety” tour.
The company’s “mobile safety” centre, in a converted horsebox, will visit more than 30 saddleries and shows this year including Mitsubishi Cup grassroots day at Badminton (4 May).
Staff will be on hand to check the fit and adjustment of hats and body protectors, explain safety standards and demonstrate how to check for wear.
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Also on offer will be quizzes, new ideas and products, competitions and goody bags and information on safety standards.
Former Olympic eventer and Harry Hall safety adviser Ian Stark said: “From my experience running the Ian Stark Equestrian Centre, it’s very important to me that Harry Hall is still prepared to push the boundaries in rider safety. This is a great initiative.”
The tour starts in Malton, North Yorkshire, on 9 April, and the last scheduled stop is in Gateshead on 24 September.
Get more information, dates and venues
Find out more about the Hatchecker app — cost £1.49
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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.