Five ways to stay part of the sport without competing

If you don’t have your own horse to compete, or if competing isn’t for you, there are still lots of ways you can stay part of eventing…

Spectate

An obvious one, but watching the sport can be just as exciting and nerve wracking as taking part. With more than 150 fixtures every year there is sure to be an event near you. Take a look at the BE fixtures calendar, which has all the details. A lot of events offer free admission for anyone, however if you are a BE Supporter member you get free access to any event up to one star level and exclusive discounts on entry to some three star events and the BE Pavilion at events where there is one.

Volunteer

Make new friends, see the stars up close, be a key part of the running of the sport, get free cake… Volunteers are some of the most enthusiastic, loyal and dedicated bunch of people you could ever come across; it doesn’t matter if you are an experienced eventing hand or brand new to the sport, there is a role for everyone, loads of support and always something to learn. Find out more about volunteering opportunities on the BE website, or you can get in touch with any event you wish to volunteer at and offer your services.

Training

Have a horse, but not sure if you’re ready to put your BE entry in? Make sure you browse the comprehensive list of BE training and education courses. From dressage test riding, two day camps and a series of BE80(T) training there are courses to cover everything at a range of locations across the country.

Support crew

If you love eventing the chances are you know someone who competes; if you don’t already, you could volunteer your plaiting, horse holding, picnic making, dog/child sitting, video recording or tack cleaning services to get your eventing fix.

Owning

If your budget doesn’t quite stretch to owning a whole horse, many riders offer syndicate opportunities, from buying a leg to a monthly flat fee. Not only will it give you the thrill of competing, but syndicates are a really fun and social way of owning an event horse.