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, so why not have a think about some of the ideas below?

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.