How to get involved in eventing without a horse

If you don’t have your own horse, there are many other ways to get involved in eventing, from grassroots to elite competition. Though the season is over for 2023, why not have a think about some of the below ideas for 2024?

Reasons to volunteer in eventing 

  • A wonderful way to ‘give something back’ to the sport – it’s fun and rewarding, and there’s renowned community loyalty.
  • It will improve your knowledge of eventing.  
  • It’s varied – roles on offer include fence judge, collecting-ring steward, dressage writer, secretary’s assistant … the list goes on! 
  • You get to see top horses and meet lots of elite riders. 
  • Some events offer a free day’s entry as a spectator in exchange for one day’s volunteering. 
  • Without volunteers, events couldn’t run!
 

Help out an event rider

  • Helping out for a friend or local eventer is rewarding. 
  • You can give moral support and an extra pair of hands is always appreciated. 
  • It’s a great social opportunity, hanging out with other riders, grooms and helping hands. 
  • There are always lots of picnics available in the lorry park!
 

Join an eventing syndicate 

  • It’s a more affordable route into owning an event horse. 
  • You might get the chance to part-own a four star horse. 
  • It’s about the whole experience – training, news and other opportunities – not just the competing. 
  • Many events offer special facilities for owners. 
  • It’s a great opportunity to meet like-minded people to socialise with. 
 

Being an event spectator

  • It’s a great day out for the whole family, even non-horsey members. 
  • Watching the horses competing is thrilling.
  • There are often shopping and foodie stands to explore!
  • At BE events, there is a variety of horses and riders at different levels, all out enjoying the experience of the three phases at one venue. 
  • It’s an excuse to get out and about in the countryside and enjoy the fresh air. 
  • BE Supporter Membership provides free event entry (up to CC1*), course walks and BE discounts.