Grassroots riders will be able to compete alongside British Eventing members in a new initiative designed to support participation, strengthen eventing activity and create more opportunities for riders across the UK.
The first BE Lite competition will take place at Howick Horse Trials in Chepstow on Friday 12 July.
Developed by the British Eventing Sport Task Force, BE Lite is a flexible affiliation model for unaffiliated events, developed to support organisers, riders and the wider eventing community.
Open to both British Eventing members and non-members, BE Lite provides an accessible route into the sport while operating under the governing body’s guidelines and framework, ensuring the high standards of safety, welfare and event delivery remain.
Entry processes are simplified, certain dressage and dress requirements are relaxed, and the focus is placed firmly on enjoyment, confidence-building and progression, while retaining the fundamental standards that underpin eventing.
Eliminating barriers
“BE Lite is exactly the type of initiative our sport needs if we are serious about growing participation and ensuring eventing remains accessible for future generations,” said Pippa Funnell, chair of the British Eventing Sports Task Force.
“It removes some of the barriers that can prevent people from taking part, while retaining the standards of safety, horse welfare and good event organisation that are fundamental to our sport.
“It is about opening doors, encouraging confidence and helping more riders enjoy the unique experience that eventing offers.”
Creating opportunities
BE Lite builds on BE’s commitment to support the grassroots community, break down barriers and improve accessibility in the sport through initiatives and programmes such as BE Prepared and Here to Help.
“BE Lite is about supporting organisers and riders, strengthening standards and creating more opportunities for people to enjoy our sport,” said Rosie Williams, chief executive officer at British Eventing.
“We are delighted that Howick will be the first venue to host a BE Lite competition and are excited to see the concept in action.
“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 British Eventing’s expertise in safety, welfare and sport delivery.
“Importantly, while some competition 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.”
To enter Howick Horse Trials on Friday 12 July, click here.
