The British Eventing Training Foundation (BETF) has launched its ambitious £100,000 fundraising campaign to transform how British Eventing (BE) trains and supports its officials.
The campaign was officially launched at the Defender Burghley Horse Trials last week with two events: a breakfast with Pippa Funnell and Lucinda Green, and a cross-country course walk with LA28 course designer Alec Lochore.
“British Eventing is proud to rely on a passionate and experienced community of volunteer officials,” said Pippa.
“Now, there’s a vital opportunity to build on that foundation by modernising training, improving consistency and experience, and creating a clear, supportive pathway for the next generation.”
All proceeds from the events went towards the BETF’s work and its mission to advance the sport of eventing through training.
The foundation promotes participation, welfare and safety in the sport and inspires continuous improvement at all levels to ensure the eventing community is sustainable and continues to thrive.
Fundraising events
The Breakfast Q&A with eventing legends, which took place in the President’s Enclosure on Thursday 4 September, saw Pippa Funnell and Lucinda Green share personal stories, look ahead to the competition at Burghley and discuss the role officials play in eventing.
LA28 course designer Alec Lochore hosted a member-only guided walk of Burghley’s cross-country course on Friday 5 September.
The walk allowed attendees to learn about cross-country design and how riders and officials work together to keep the competition safe and fair.
‘Entering a new chapter’
“The sport of eventing is entering an exciting new chapter,” said Sian Rodway, chair of the BETF.
“Officials aren’t just important – they’re indispensable. We’re excited to be launching this important campaign at Burghley in September and very much hope the eventing community will get behind us and support the events.
“By acting now to professionalise training and build a sustainable framework, we can protect the future of eventing for years to come.”
For more information and to support the campaign click here.
Image © British Eventing.
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