British Dressage - Issue 3 2023

Iceland Girl PS, Five-Year-Old Champion at the British Dressage National Championships, ridden by Tom Goode and owned by Debbie Cunningham.

Photograph by Hoof Prints Photos

“Since changing to TopSpec we’ve noticed a remarkable improvement in the performance of all our horses. They look and feel fantastic. Resulting in Iceland Girl PS becoming Five-Year-Old National Champion ’22.” Emile Faurie

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From the editor

Looking forward to the Winter Championships

As we head for the NAF Five Star Winter Championships, we look forward to watching new combinations cement their partnership and more established duos take that next step up the ladder. The events of the last few years remind us how lucky we are to be able to get out and enjoy taking part in or watching our sport.

We’re so fortunate to have many great competition venues, and how good it is to have a revitalised Addington Equestrian back hosting CPEDI and CDI shows.

Entries have remained strong across the board this winter, which is great news for organisers who, like all of us, are facing increased costs.

Industry surveys have shown that even when times are tough, riders will refocus on the important matters of training and competing, and perhaps make any cutbacks needed on non-equestrian purchases. I suspect I’m not alone in preferring a day out with the horses to an evening out in an expensive restaurant!

We’ve looked at a few ways to keep on top of costs in recent issues, and on p44 we consider options for hiring or leasing horse transport. With vehicle prices spiralling, it’s encouraging to see that the industry can offer us some flexibility.

Also in this issue is a photo report from the Equissage Pulse Para Winter Championships, which kicked off this year’s major events series in fine style.

It’s great to hear that Grade IV rider Izzy Palmer, while not back in the saddle in time for this show, is on her way to recovery after a ‘freak fall’ led to concussion. British Equestrian has recently published unified concussion guidelines for all disciplines, which will help everyone from riders to coaches and officials know how to manage concussion from the time of injury to a return to competition.

It’s easy to think of dressage as a relatively low risk sport, but we should never underestimate how easily concussion can occur, or its long term impact.

It’s also commonplace for riders to downplay injuries in their haste to get on the next horse or press on with training. Recognising the symptoms and accepting the need to give the brain time to recover are the vital steps in ensuring that what could seem at the time like a relatively minor incident doesn’t go on to affect your quality of life in the future.

Jane Carley Editor, British Dressage

Entries have remained strong across the board

IN THIS ISSUE

FEATURES

10 Profile Fiona Bigwood on multi-tasking and international aspirations

16 Equissage Pulse Para Winter Championships

Winners celebrated

20 Getting the balance right Feeding young horses for stamina without fizz

26 Headed for Hartpury Winter regionals round-up

30 Stability, mobility and suppleness Improving symmetry in the saddle

44 Economy on the road Transport hiring and leasing options

48 Perfecting performance Taking time out

Bowen-Morris

Molly

and Kilbawn Lad, Grade V Silver Champions at the Equissage Pulse Para Winter Championships

Photo: Kevin Sparrow Photography

Photo by Lottie Elizabeth Photography

NEW TEST FOR SEVEN-YEAR-OLDS

A new BD National Test is now available for seven-year-olds contesting the KBIS Young Dressage Horse Series.

Having run for over 20 years, the KBIS Young Dressage Horse and Pony Championships offers breeders, owners and young horse producers a welcoming pathway to introduce young horses and ponies to the dressage arena.

The new age group test is designed to offer seven-year-old horses, included as an age category under the KBIS Young Horse Championships banner for the first time in 2022, the chance to showcase ageappropriate scales of training within an Advanced Medium level route.

The new National Test for Seven Year Olds will replace BD Advanced Medium 96 at all stages of the KBIS Young Horse Championships process, ridden and judged as for a standard BD test and competition. Judges will use the test sheet alongside the quality sheet to assess the performance and potential of young horses en route to championship qualification.

Dates and venues are on the website; qualifiers go forward to semi-finals at Hartpury Arena and Northallerton Equestrian Centre with the final at the LeMieux National Championships at Somerford Park in September.

LOTTIE SCOOPS WORLD CUP PRIZES

Lottie Fry completed a successful run in the FEI Dressage World Cup 2022/2023 Western European League, winning the fi nal leg in ‘s-Hertogenbosch, the Netherlands with Van Olst Horses’ Glamourdale with 86.835%.

Alongside her spectacular victory at the London International Horse Show in December, this saw her make the cut for the nine places at the 2023 series final in Omaha, Nebraska, USA on 9 April, finishing in sixth place in the Western European League table. However, Glamourdale will not travel to the final.

Lottie also competed successfully with other horses in the Western European League qualifiers, taking 11th place at Jumping Amsterdam with Lars van de Hoenderheide and third at Mechelen with Everdale.

Fellow Europe-based Brit, Susan Pape secured a creditable seventh place with Harmony’s Eclectisch in North America series qualifi er held at the Adequan Global Dressage Festival in Florida.

CONCUSSION GUIDELINES PUBLISHED

British Dressage is supporting British Equestrian in its release of unified concussion guidelines for use within the equestrian industry. The six-page guidance document aims to help participants to recognise concussion and know what actions to take, both in the immediate aftermath and during recovery.

Aimed at participants at all levels of equestrian sport – including riders, vaulters and drivers, parents, coaches, officials, grooms, medical personnel and event organisers – the guidance document provides information to manage concussion, from

BABY JOY FOR CHARLOTTE

the time of injury through to a safe return to equestrian sport.

This includes the stages of recovery following concussion and a standardised ‘return to riding’ programme, both which should be carried out in conjunction with advice from a qualified medical practitioner or healthcare provider. Links to further help and resources are also listed.

To read the guidance visit bit.ly/BEFConcussion

A ‘signs of concussion’ poster can also be downloaded for useful reference in tack rooms and at events.

British Dressage would like to offer warm congratulations to Charlotte Dujardin and fiancé Dean Wyatt Golding on the birth of Isabella Rose on 6 March.

FEI/Leanjo de Koster

PICTURED

KevinSparrowPhotography

JessPhotograph

PARA MATTERS

LETTER FROM TRACY

We’re often asked how riders can be nationally classified. To compete in national competitions, all para equestrian riders have to be physically classified. Conducted through British Equestrian, the classification is completed by a physiotherapist who assesses mobility, strength and range of movement. This allows any permanent physical impairment to be measured objectively, and the rider is awarded with a profile placing them into one of the five grades – see the website for forthcoming grading dates. Riders with visual impairment are assessed by a British Blind Sport ophthalmologist. Visually impaired riders interested in being classified need to contact britishblindsport.org.uk

Tracy Ormrod, Para Director

SUMMER CHAMPIONSHIPS QUALIFICATION REMINDER

A gentle reminder that to attend the Gold semi-final class at Wellington in June, all summer qualification for the Gold section needs to have been gained by 15 May 2023. Qualification is not required for the freestyle to music and Grand Prix A days of the festival.

GOLD (SEMI-FINALS)

• Open to any rider with an FEI Classification.

• Combinations must gain 12 points.

• Six of the 12 points required may come from one CPEDI3* or a Para PYO (Non FEI) (Grand Prix Test B only).

• 12 points qualifies the combination to enter the semi-final.

• The number of horses per rider are unlimited at the Gold semi-final, however may be restricted for the final.

• Combinations wishing to compete at the semi-final, must achieve points before the closing date.

To attend the Bronze and Silver Championships at Hartpury in August, all qualification for the Bronze and Silver sections needs to be gained by 30 June.

SILVER CHAMPIONSHIPS

(Winter and Summer Championships)

• Open to Silver and Bronze riders, however only points gained in the Silver section of Intermediate A test will count.

• Combinations must gain 10 points.

• Five of the 10 points required may come from one CPEDI2*/ CPEDI1* (single best score to count) and/or Para PYO (Intermediate Test A only).

• Combinations qualify direct to the Summer and Winter Championships.

• There is no restriction on the number of horses a rider can qualify and contest the Summer Championships with.

BRONZE CHAMPIONSHIPS

(Winter and Summer Championships)

• Open to Bronze riders only.

• Combinations must gain fi ve points from the Introductory level test, these can include Para PYO classes.

• Combinations qualify direct to the Summer and Winter Championships.

PARA FREESTYLE TO MUSIC CHAMPIONSHIPS

• Open to Bronze, Silver and Gold riders.

• Combinations must gain one score of 63% or above in their respective section to qualify for the Championships.

• Combinations qualify direct to the Para Freestyle to Music Championships.

• Bronze and Silver freestyle tests are available on the BD website.

• Gold freestyle test are available to download form the FEI website.

GRADE 7 RDA CHAMPIONSHIPS

in association with British Dressage Para

We are excited to announce that once again we will be hosting the RDA Grade 7 classes alongside our Bronze and Silver para classes at the Festival of Para Dressage, being held at Hartpury in August.

Thirty riders will be invited based on their results from the three Grade 7 classes that will be held at the RDA National Championships in July.

Five junior and five seniors in each class will be put forward to BD for selection direct from RDA HQ, following all results being confirmed. Please note that being placed in the top five does not guarantee selection. We will look at percentages and numbers in each class before making a final decision. We wish you all the best of luck in gaining qualification for the Grade 7 Championships!

OPEN MEET AND GREET WITH TRACY ORMROD AND NATASHA PEARCE AT PHN

We will be holding an open meet and greet with the Para Director, Tracy Ormrod and BD Para Officer, Natasha Pearce over the course of the Para Home Nations. Please all do feel free to come and say hello when you see us around.

PICTURED Natasha Pearce, Para Dressage and International Officer.

Lily Wakefield from sponsor Niagara Equissage presents Grade 1 Gold prizes to (l-r) Veronica Bower, Gabriella Blake and Susanna Wade at the Equissage Pulse Winter Para Championships. See page 16 for our report.

PICTURED Ben Watson and Perriland Compo, grade 7 walk and trot test winner in 2022.

Multi-tasking mum

Juggling the schedules of three teenage children, building a new equestrian complex and breeding your future dressage horses would be enough for most women to cope with. When you add in the pressure of producing your favourite horse for team contention, most of us would be tearing our hair out. But not Fiona Bigwood! Fiona tells Helen Triggs how, despite all the distractions, she is still focussed on a team place and is not planning on handing over the reins just yet.

Fiona made her international team debut on Pablo Picasso in 1996 at the Young Rider Europeans, making it onto the senior team for the European Championships in 2007 on Dance and Fly. She had a lot of success with Wie Atlantico De Ymas (now happily retired with Fiona’s mum Penny) who was her ride for the 2019 World Equestrian Games. More success followed with a team silver medal at the Rio Olympics with Atterupgaards Orthilia (Tilly) and more recently international success with Hawtins Delicato. Del has now been sold to Irish rider Fenella Quinn and Fiona’s team hopes are focussed on Dino (Daytona Platinum), a huge cuddly horse (18.3hh!) with fabulous paces but who is also a bit of a scaredy cat.

Fiona’s face lights up when she talks about her gentle giant who was bought when he was five. “He learned the grand prix work really easily,” says Fiona who won the GP class at Vale View High Profile in January. “Two years of lockdown meant he didn’t get the experience competing to get over his spooking. I’ve worked a lot with Claire

Gallimore and he is so much better now. It’s so frustrating when you know what he can do at home and he goes down the centre line and spooks at a leaf! We do a lot of hacking, pole work and arena hires to show him life is not that scary.

“His character is tricky but I’d love him even if we never competed again. I always get off after riding him with a smile on my face. It’s so rewarding when you’ve been on a journey with a horse and success means so much more.”

She has trained with Carl Hester for many years and recently Fiona has placed her other Grand Prix horse Fame with Carl Hester who

will compete him this spring. “With all I’ve got going on it’s hard to campaign two so I offered the ride to Carl and they seem to have clicked.”

Fiona is keen to breed her next generation of dressage horses, both for her and daughter Mette Dahl as well as show jumpers for the boys. “It’s lovely that all the children want to ride but that’s a lot of horses to buy!” The increased cost and complexity of buying abroad since Brexit is another contributory factor.

Seven-year-old Donna Bella, who Fiona hopes to aim at the World Breeding Championships, is an embryo transfer mare out of Tilly and by Don Juan De Hus and is now working at advanced. “I’ve always bred one or two and hope to do more in the future. I really enjoy studying the breeding and selecting the stallions. When I lived in Germany, I loved going to the stallion shows and trying to pick out which ones were going to be successful. It’s also much easier to produce horses when you know their background and history.”

Fiona is keen that her horses get an allround education to prepare them for their dressage careers. “There are some nice classes for young horses nowadays where they don’t have to be in the ring on their own. It’s a good way for them to learn what competing is all about. We put two or three on the lorry and take them to an arena hire so they get used to going to new places without any stress on them. It’s particularly important for our homebreds who otherwise would never leave home.” >

PICTURED

Left: Fiona Bigwood with Daytona Platinum, who she describes as ‘a big scaredy cat’!

Above: Fiona has plenty to keep her busy including renovating her home, Brantridge Park, building a new stable complex and looking after five rescue dogs!

Right: Fiona with the exciting four-year-old Newton Sylvernite (Seth), by Toerveslettens Sylvester out of a Don Schufro mare.

DRESSAGE

The Elite Dressage team continue building a world class reputation for breeding, training and sales of topflight dressage horses direct from source. They have sold to multiple international riders including Dutch Olympic rider Diederik Van Silfhout, Andreas Helgstrand and French national champion and US Para Olympic trainer Michel Assouline. Very recently British Olympic team member Fiona Bigwood purchased the outstanding three year old Newton Sylvernite (Torveslettons Sylvester x Don Schufro x De Niro) also as a potential future team prospect.

PRIX RIDER ANNA ROSS...

Is particularly excited about a Fürst Jazz - Don Schufro - DeNiro gelding 5 yrs old and showing tremendous talent. “Newton Frank Zappa has almost identical breeding to the top lot at the recent PSI Auction, which was also a Furst Jazz – Don Schufro offspring. With a knock down price of over €1million for that horse, he’s not in the same price bracket as he’s for sale direct from us. We think he’s definitely going to be one to watch for the future along with a few other secret weapons!’

The team can showcase generations of Elite Dressage horses from foals through to GP produced in the most natural way, growing up herds on the Devon hills and continuing their training with international riders with a variety of training indoors, outdoors and hacking over the Devon hills. “It can be a minefield going to Europe to buy dressage horses and possibly not knowing much about the horses you’re trying as well as the added post Brexit import taxes ,” explained Anna Ross. “We provide a persona service to clients here in the UK so they can try a range of top-class horses, experience what they are like to ride and see where they grow up and learn about their mother lines too, many of whom we train and compete ourselves.

The team can help support purchasers and produce young horses making buying an affordable and achievable option for more riders.

The Elite team’s breeding and training programme is catching the eye of those in the know, as they build their breeding and training programme of high quality competition horses.

Elite Dressage runs a comprehensive breeding and training programme producing generations of top-quality dressage horses from the best international stallions combined with their foundation and competition mares showcased from their barn in Devon.

For information: www.elitedressagehorses.co.uk

#elitedressagellp

Anna Ross - Elite Dressage

https://youtube.com/c/EliteDressageUK

A smooth-running yard is important to enable Fiona to function as a competitor and mother. At the moment while some of the horses are at Brantridge Park, most are 10 minutes’ drive away at Oaklands Farm. All the horses have big airy boxes and there is a full-size indoor school, walker and turnout pens. It’s a social place too where Fiona works closely with her team. Abbie Twine is yard manager and PA and shares competition duties with Sally Williams, ably supported by Mia Christensen and Sarah Campbell. “They are a lovely bunch and Abbie and Sally have been with me a long time. We have a lot of fun socialising together as well as working together.”

In a tour of the stables, we saw Mette’s junior ride, Cashmir, and two exciting threeyear-olds, the home bred Doodle by Zackery and Seth, by Szechuan out of a Don Schufro mare, who Fiona has bought to bring on. In the round pen, three foals are enjoying the winter sun. The stable yard is also home to showjumping ponies for Lars and Morten who aren’t (as yet) demonstrating a passion for dressage.

Mette however has followed in her mother

and father Anders’ dressage footsteps and was a successful member of the British pony team at the European Pony Championships. She and Cashmir will be campaigning for junior team selection this year. “I get more nervous watching Mette compete than when I am,” laughs Fiona. “Once she’s gone in the ring there’s nothing you can do!” Mette is in the enviable position of being able to experience riding a variety of horses from grand prix to justbacked three-year-olds.

The boys Morten (14) and Lars (9) are keen showjumpers and Morten is now moving up to horses and has recently acquired a showjumping schoolmaster. “Morten really got into riding during lockdown. I take them showjumping on Sundays. Mette used to jump as well before focussing on dressage. I think it’s great to do both disciplines.”

The children are a huge part of Fiona’s life and she is keen to spend as much time as >

PICTURED

Right: Daytona Platinum, now winning at Grand Prix despite a slow start during lockdown.

Below:

with three

It’s so rewarding when you’ve been on a journey with a horse

Fiona

home-bred yearlings, l-r Cecil and Cornelius, both by Cashmir, and Serena, bred by embryo transfer out of Donna Bella by Sezuan.

possible with them while they are still young. Her day starts with the school run, before going to the yard at Oaklands to ride until around two when it’s time to pick up the children from school, supervise their riding or ferry them to their chosen sporting activities. Paperwork has to wait to the evening at the end of a jam-packed day.

For the moment, Fiona is also involved in a major building project. Having already created Bourne Hill House, a stunning house and stables, with former husband Anders Dahl, she and her building team are renovating the beautiful grade II listed house Brantridge Park which sits in 80 acres. This gleaming white 19th century house was previously the home of a grand-daughter of Queen Victoria, although by the time Fiona acquired it, it had been converted into apartments and was in dilapidated condition. We talk in the stunning bright kitchen-cum-living space which spans the depth of the house giving wonderful dualaspect views over the parkland. No article

about Fiona would be complete without mentioning her five rescue dogs which are a mixed bunch of size and type but all very friendly and willing to welcome visitors, sitting patiently while we talked.

Fiona is building equestrian facilities to the side of the house which will be home to an indoor school and a 28-box stable complex. The steel girders for the indoor are now in place and the build is powering on, with an anticipated completion date next year.

In 2014 she had a bad fall when warming up at Keysoe which left her with double vision. The nerve damage to her eye has never really been cured and she is currently planning another operation which will involve a twoweek recovery. No doubt it won’t slow her down for long!

Other plans for the future include redeveloping Oaklands when the horses move to Brantridge and she would also like to judge and perhaps do more coaching when the children are older.

The most important thing is Fiona is still passionate about horses and dressage and ambitious to represent her country again. Maybe one day we will see a mother and daughter on a British team – wouldn’t that be something?

Fiona is ambitious to represent her country again

PICTURED

Fiona on Dino with daughter Mette (Donna Bella) who has followed in her footsteps, with a Junior team debut in 2021, Pony teams in 2022 and this season in Juniors to look forward to.

PICTURED

A winning team: standing left-right Fiona Bigwood and Mette Dahl, seated left-right Abbie Twine, Sally Williams, Mia Christensen and Sarah Campbell.

11TH - 14TH MAY 2023

Paras reap rewards

Myerscough College in Lancashire welcomed a wealth of para riders for the 2023 edition of the Equissage Pulse Para Winter Championships. While established stars shone in the Gold classes, several championship debutants enjoyed success to win Bronze and Silver titles. We celebrate our title winners from across the full weekend of competition.

Above: Having spent the winter recovering from double foot fusion surgery, Grade I Gold Champion Gabriella Blake has relied on mum Estelle to keep Strong Beau fit for her. Adjusting to riding without stirrups, Gabriella’s score was 71.85%.

Below: Erin Orford took the Grade III Gold title on a new ride, the seven-year-old Dragon’s Fire, owned by Sophie Wells, Jackie Walker and Valerie Woodford. ‘Nero’ has gained mileage as Sophie’s demo ‘guinea pig’ horse and qualified for the regionals.

Prix St Georges at home.

Gold Championship with the highest score of the show, an impressive 73.21%. Her partner, Rowland and Maria Kinch’s 14-year-old Don Jovi gelding, Don Cara M, won the silver medal in the Grade V Individual at the World Championships last year. Sophie also took third place with the exciting seven-year-old mare LJT Egebjerggards Samoa.

FOR FULL EVENT RESULTS SCAN THE QR CODE

Left: Sir Lee Pearson took Grade II Gold honours with Breezer III, the pair’s first outing since winning Individual bronze and Freestyle silver at the World Championships last September. The sensitive gelding is now training at

Right: Sophie Wells took the Grade V

Above: On the Podium Potential Pathway for two years. Grade IV Champion Katie Radzik made her 2023 competition debut a winning one. Katie takes advantage of modern technology to benefit from Zoom lessons with Russell Guire in between travelling to his Warwickshire yard.

Veronica Bower won the Grade 1 Silver title and also took reserve champion at her first attempt in the Gold section. Her Fürstenball mare Game Over, was purchased on the recommendation of daughter and trainer Tracy Ormrod.

Below: Having competed the 12-year-old Denver IX just a handful of times, Fiona Maynard scooped the Grade IV Silver title and third place in the Gold section. Previously competed to Inter I by Chloe Jacques, Denver is a ‘character’, according to Fiona.

Right: Vicky Earnshaw and Prince Pepe were the highest scoring Silver Champions with 69.47% and also took third place in the Gold section.“This was his first away show and first championship. He’s only eight so I couldn’t ask for anything more from him,” said Vicky.

Below: Grade V Silver Champion Molly Bowen-Morris works in London four days a week so support from trainer Tiggy Bentley is vital, she says. Kilbawn Lad (Will) is former event horse for owner Amanda Bacon.

Grade IV Silver Champion Fiona Maynard on Denver IX

He doesn’t see why he can’t do ying changes instead of transitions through trot and walk

BRONZE

and WSH

Something Borrowed took the Grade I Bronze title, reward for Elan’s dedication - she makes a four hour round trip three times a week to Anglesey to ride ‘Trinny’ at the home of her owner, Sarah Jones Williams.

Above

A protegé of Sophie Wells, Lacey O’Hara conquered her nerves on her championship debut to win the Grade II bronze title with Miss Lottie.

Above left: Julia Godden took the Grade IV Bronze crown with the handsome heavyweight cob Garties Mr D’Arcy, purchased by owner Penny Garton from Ireland. Originally designed for showing, Julia says he now prefers dressage.

Above right: Another smart cob, Helen Geddes’ Her Ladyship only began para competitions at the end of last year, but the ‘sassy and opinionated’ mare took the honours in the Grade V Bronze section.

Left: Mark Griffin went one better than last year to win the Grade III Bronze Championship with First Class IX. A real family horse, she also won the Grade IV Bronze in 2022 with wife Lisa.

Above left: Elan Williams

right:

Getting the right balance

Young dressage horses require certain nutrients for growth and development, so how can we ensure they are getting everything they need without making them unrideable?

Stephanie Bateman nds out.

“Managing a young competition horse can present many challenges,” says Lizzie Drury MSc Registered Nutritionist from Saracen Horse Feeds. “Not only do they represent some of the hardest working and fit population of horses, but they are also exposed to a high amount of stress and regime changes when training and competing at home and abroad.”

Changes in feed, forage, housing and routine can have a negative impact on health.

“Research has shown there is an increased risk of impaction colic within the first two weeks of significant management changes, so to help reduce the risk, feed high-quality forage and consider either steaming or soaking to increase the water uptake and retention,” says Lizzie. “Try to mimic trickle feed behaviour by using small-holed haynets which also increases saliva and helps

to buffer stomach acid. Introduction of a live yeast or prebiotic can help to maintain pH in the hindgut to help support bacteria.”

When it comes to hard feed, feeding hay alone would leave some competition horses lacking energy, and so additional energy must be provided using a complete concentrate feed or a competition balancer.

“Choose feeds that provide slow-release energy through digestible fibres and higher oil levels, as these promote a more trainable temperament,” adds Lizzie. “For some young horses, conditioning feeds support development while they are still maturing.

“It is also essential that young competition horses are provided with optimum levels of high-quality protein, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to support immune function, optimum muscle development and topline, while maintaining recovery. To achieve a fully balanced diet, pay attention to the recommended feeding rates.

PICTURED

The young horse can be faced with an increasing workload and the stress of a new routine, so the right diet is of high importance.

“When it comes to musculoskeletal development, bone mineralisation supplements (Triacton) can be of particular benefit, particularly during the early stages of training.”

ENERGY VERSUS EXCITABILITY

While we want our young horses to have enough energy to sparkle in the ring, the last thing we want is an excitable young horse that is too sharp to ride.

“While it’s not possible to change the horse’s sharp temperament, choosing the sources of energy carefully can help you avoid exacerbating the problem,” says Sarah Nelson of Spillers Horse Feeds EFFM. “Cereal starch is the most common cause of feed-related excitability. Avoid mixes and as a general guide, choose feeds containing less than 15% starch or less than 10% for very sensitive horses. Choose fibre-based feeds that are high in oil for poor doers – oil is approximately 2.5 times higher in energy compared to cereals, but starch (and sugar) free.”

Sarah also explains that a lack of energy undersaddle may be mistaken for a lack of energy in the diet – “remember that body condition is the best indicator of whether energy requirements are being met,” she says. “Excess weight gain can have a considerable effect on the horse’s energy levels as well as his health. Fitness is another factor that can significantly affect energy levels – an appropriate level of fitness, variation in work, maintaining a healthy bodyweight and providing a balanced diet are all important factors.”

CASE STUDY: KEEP IT SIMPLE

Young dressage horse producer Kate Davis (pictured right) bases her horses’ diets on high fibre and low sugar systems.

“All my horses are fed an ulcer fibre which promotes a longer chewing time to help them produce saliva to buffer excess stomach acid, and contains a good level of calories from fibre and oil, so they have slow releasing energy to provide ‘oomph’ without sending them nutty,” says Kate. “It’s also high in good quality protein to develop their toplines, and adequate vitamins and minerals for a well-balanced diet.”

Alongside this, Kate’s horses are given a joint supplement and table salt.

“As their workload increases, or if they need more energy, I would add a conditioning cube which again provides calories from fibre and oil-based sources,” she adds. “Also, all my horses go out every day on good grass, and when in their stable they are never without good quality hay or haylage. They also get a scoop of chaff before exercise to help reduce the risk of ulcers, and if they require less calories, I reduce the quantity of hard feed and add a broad spectrum supplement instead.”

An increase in work doesn’t always warrant an increase in feed.

“Balancers are the ideal way to top up on vitamins, minerals and quality protein for those that maintain weight easily on less than the recommended amount of compound feed,” adds Sarah. “Alongside quality protein, correct work and periods of rest are required in order to grow and develop muscle. Fat can’t be converted to muscle, so it’s important not to allow the horse to gain excess weight in an attempt to build topline.”

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT

Alongside hard feed, there are supplements that can be fed to help support a young horse setting out on his competition career.

“With young horses, particularly when considering Warmblood breeds, it is worth remembering that their musculoskeletal system will still be maturing well into their early ridden career,” says Kate Hore, Registered Head Nutritionist at NAF. “While we sometimes think about joint support predominantly for elite athletes and older horses, the reality is they’re never too young to start. >

Choose feeds that provide slow-release energy through digestible bres and higher oil levels, as these promote a more trainable temperament.

Early work introduces the horse to loadbearing through their joints, while the joints are maturing, so feeding a quality broad spectrum joint supplement is recommended at this stage.”

If condition is being lost through stress from competition, Kate advises: “consider supplementing with targeted gut support, including prebiotics, live probiotics and postbiotic metabolites, to maintain a stable microbiome, and therefore, a settled brain.”

Electrolytes are also an essential for any working and competing horse, including the growing youngster.

“Look for a broad-spectrum electrolyte and add to feed when worked,” advises Kate. “For quieter rest days, access to a salt lick in the field and stable should meet requirements for maintenance.”

Finally, one other area that is very relevant for many young horses is calming.

“Using a proven calmer, either daily or in a targeted way for travel and competition, can be a great way of helping the youngsters to stay focused, and learn their job, without the fireworks,” says Kate.

A GOOD START FOR FUTURE CHAMPIONS

Rebecca Hughes (pictured right) is well-known for producing successful young horses for the dressage arena, and getting their diet right is high on her priorities.

“The welfare of our young dressage horses is vital to ensuring they develop into happy, healthy individuals, so we spend a lot of time working out the best diet for them,” she says. “We use qualified nutritionists to advise us on each of our horses’ feed to ensure they are getting the correct levels of vitamins and minerals as part of a balanced diet.

We also feed good quality forage, and all our horses are turned out on grass.

“Correct training plays a big role in their muscle development, so it’s important that their diet supports that in terms of protein and slow-release energy, and replaces anything lost such as electrolytes.”

The Hughes’ yard manager Steph Sharples is in charge of the horses’ diets.

“We start all our young horses on a basic feed of good quality, ad-lib forage topped up with a hard feed of chaff and a balancer so we know they are getting all their vits and mins,” says Steph. “Then, depending on their individual needs, we can add to this.

We’re lucky that most of ours hold their weight well, but for those needing a bit extra, we’d use a basic fibre cube which is high fibre and low starch so it won’t send them loopy.”

When the horses start competing, Steph adds supplements to support them.

“We give them electrolytes and a gut balancer if they get stressed, and we might give them a probiotic to boost their gut health,” she explains. “I would also start them on an immune supplement five days before their competition to boost their immune systems.”

PICTURED

Inset: A fibre feed with a high oil content can be useful for a horse that loses condition easily.

PICTURED

Right: While good quality forage should be the basis of the diet, it may not be enough on its own as the young horse begins its competition career.

FEEDING YOUNG HORSES

MUSCLE & FOCUS is a feed that provides high quality protein sources supporting muscle growth, development and recovery. Ideal for horses and ponies that are in regular work, training or competing. Utilising fibre and oil ingredients, Muscle & Focus provides low starch levels supporting focused, calm and composed behaviour, both on the ground and under saddle. Avoiding the heated behaviour associated with high starch diets, the feed provides a good level of stamina energy.

RRP: £15.58 – £18.58 for 20kg | allenandpage.com

MAXI-TOP EQUINE is the must-have supplement for young advancing dressage horses. It provides essential branch-chain amino acids to help develop muscle mass. As it is packed with a vegan source of protein, it is ideal for young growing horses and supports the development of a strong and supple topline.

RRP: £69.55 | farmstable.com

FIVE STAR SUPERFLEX is made for protecting and nourishing young joints, soft tissue, cartilage and connective tissues. NAF recommends Five Star Superflex for the stars of tomorrow, helping to stimulate cartilage production and support the regeneration of connective tissue. With synovial fluid nourishment, circulatory assistance and free radical dispersal, Five Star Superflex delivers flexibility for life. Available as powder or liquid.

RRP: £25.50 for 400g, £38.99 for 1 litre naf-equine.eu/uk

TOPLINE & SHINE is formulated to support your horse’s body condition without causing excitability. A blend of quality fibres with a high oil, low starch pellet combining rice bran, linseed and sunflower extract, all of which provide slow-release energy and essential omega-3 fatty acids. The palatable herbs each have antioxidant properties and tempt the fussiest feeders. Ulcer-safe and free from molasses, binders and soya.

RRP: £15.50 | honeychop.com

HI FORM OXYDANE is a high-performance formulation designed to promote and maintain a healthy immune system and keep your young horse in a high health status. It is a great all-round health product reaching all parts of the body and nervous system. From helping with concentration and calmness, to healthy hooves, skin, and coat. This supplement contains over 60 different active ingredients and is fed daily.

RRP: £80 for 1kg, £147 for 2kg, £320 for 5kg, £600 for 10kg | hiformequine.co.uk

SARACEN CONDITION-IMPROVER CUBES is a barleyand oat-free non-heating conditioning cube formulated on ‘superfibres’ and oil in order to support a trainable temperament and controlled weight gain. In addition, the Condition-Improver Cubes benefit from the inclusion of Equi-Jewel which helps to optimise calorie intake while maintaining lower feeding rates. The cubes are fully balanced with all the essentials vitamins and minerals as well as live yeast to support and maintain digestive health for outstanding condition, topline and Saracen shine.

RRP: £20.50 for 20kg | saracenhorsefeeds.co.uk

BETTALIFE PHARMAPLAST ULTIMATE TOPLINE

is a palatable, non-heating, banana flavour formula containing all essential amino acids plus L-Arginine and Spirulina. This high specification sugar-free formulation contains selenium, vitamin E, DHA and linseed for stunning coat condition. Ideal as a daily supplement to help support topline development, muscle condition and postexercise recovery especially in young horses with increasing workloads and developmental needs. BETTALIFE offers a full money back guarantee and a detailed ingredients list can be found on the website.

RRP: £45 for 750g (30 day supply for 500kg horse), £75 for 1.5kg (60 day supply for 500kg horse) | Bettalife.co.uk

SPILLERS ORIGINAL BALANCER is an enhanced multivitamin and mineral balancer with added digestive, hoof and immune support. It is ideal for balancing a forage-only diet and supplies the essential amino acid lysine to support muscle and topline. It also benefits from the inclusion of pre- and probiotics to support digestive health, 15mg of biotin per 500g serving to support hoof health and a high level of vitamin E alongside added vitamin C to support immune health.

RRP: £43.89 for 20kg | spillers-feeds.com

TOPSPEC COMPREHENSIVE

FEED BALANCER is a nutrient-rich feed ideal for youngstock once they are three years-old. It promotes muscle development and topline and contains a multi-supplement, including a generalpurpose supplement plus many specialised supplements designed to maximise musculoskeletal development and overall performance. This superb specification allows horses to utilise far more nutrients from the forage and straights/blends in their diet, which usually means that their hard feed intake can be reduced.

RRP: £37.25/£49.50 for 15kg/20kg topspec.com

BAILEYS EASE & EXCEL CUBES

While young horses may only be in what’s considered light work, their nutritional requirements are elevated to help develop muscle and support their continued physical adaptation to ridden work. Ease & Excel Cubes represent the ideal option for providing the necessary low starch, slow release calories to support their development, while encouraging their feet to stay on the ground. Top quality protein sources help build muscle and topline, and boosted levels of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants support metabolism, immunity and recovery.

RRP: £17.00 for 20kg baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk

HORSEHAGE HIGH FIBRE is the original dust-free forage. 100% natural and never rebagged. HorseHage’s direct-to-smallbale method means every bale is packaged straight from the field, ensuring it stays fresh and nutritious for up to 18 months without the need for preservatives or flavourings. Low in sugar and starch and dust-free, HorseHage High Fibre is suitable for all horses and ponies. FEMAS and BETA NOPS certified - HorseHage guarantees every bale produced is of the highest quality.

RRP: £9.99 for 20kg | Horsehage.co.uk

ROWEN BARBARY SUMO ORIGINAL is ideal for horses that need condition without excitability. Sumo Original contains high levels of oils, alongside Vitamin E, Vitamin C, selenium and zinc, to help support excellent overall condition while keeping them calm and collected.

RRP: £37.48 per 10kg | rowenbarbary.co.uk

NUPAFEED MAH CALMING SYRINGES are an ‘on the day’ solution for sharp or stressed horses in competition, travel, training etc. Renowned among equine professionals, MAH is a unique magnesium compound that helps to manage stressed and difficult behaviour, without affecting jumping performance. Ideal for young horses, buzzy arenas, stallions etc. Fully FEI-compliant.

RRP: £7.20 each or £67 for ten | nupafeed.co.uk

Hartpury here we come!

The NAF Five Star Winter Championships takes place at Hartpury Arena from Wednesday 19 to Sunday 23 April with competitors going head to head for more than 40 titles from Preliminary to Intermediate I and plays host to the ever popular Petplan Equine Area Festival Championships. It’s a great event to spot rising stars and enjoy top quality dressage, with the added bonus of some serious shopping! Competitors have quali ed from all over the country, securing their place in 176 regional classes. We celebrate just a few of the great combinations heading for Hartpury.

Left: Sophia Marston (17), from Coventry, achieved a tremendous treble piloting Imogen Murray and Seonaidh O’Neill’s Jazz-sired gelding, E-mail, to win the HorseLight Medium Silver, the Equitex Advanced Medium Silver and the Nupafeed Advanced Medium Freestyle Silver at Onley Grounds. “We had some lovely comments from the judges and some lovely scores too.”

Right: Bringing her magic to Myerscough, Sophie Wells OBE and her FEI World Para Championships partner, Rowland and Maria Kinch’s Don Cara M, claimed a competitive HorseLight Medium Gold (73.99%) and Spillers Medium Freestyle Gold (74.89%).

Left: Helen Dutton scored a creditable 74.07% to win the Baileys Horse Feeds Novice Freestyle Gold at Myerscough on her homebred Lord Leatherdale son, Lord Rafiki. “He’s been tricky, but he’s probably going to be the best horse I’ve ever had. He fills me with inspiration and has sparked ambition in me.” Right Kirstie Clarke is off to the NAF Five Star Winter Championships with five qualifications from Myerscough College. Partnered by Rebecca Dudley’s five-year-old stallion, Nureno (by Blue Hors Farrell), she took the HorseHage Preliminary Gold regional championship on an impressive 75.23%.

He’s so trainable and rideable, it makes my job easy.

Kirstie Clarke on Nureno

KEVIN SPARROW

KEVIN SPARROW

EMMPIX

Right: Three-time winner Jessica Davies was star of the show at Chard Equestrian. With the eight-year-old mare Kadanz II (pictured), she earned a win in the Prestige Italia Novice Gold scoring 74.63% before going on to claim the Equi-Trek Elementary Gold on 72.50%. Her third win came in the Nupafeed Advanced Medium Freestyle Silver aboard Sparkling Moët.

Below: Wellington winners, Jessica Ralton and her six-year-old mare, Active Delamotte, took the Equi-Trek Elementary Silver, the PDS Saddles Elementary Freestyle Silver and the Spillers Medium Freestyle Silver at the Hampshire venue.

Below: Karen Dewar and eight-year-old Dutch mare Kianca (by Dreamboy) were on top form at Netherton Equestrian winning the Prestige Italia Novice Silver, the Baileys Horse Feeds Novice Freestyle Silver, the Equi-Trek Elementary Silver and the PDS Saddles Elementary Freestyle Silver. Karen, a freelance coach and List 3 judge, described her triumph as “the stuff dreams are made of”.

LOTTIE-ELIZABETH PHOTOGRAPHY

three and she was 14. Their outing to Little Mill Equestrian’s inaugural Winter Regional Championships was their first competition of the year. “He’s very un-stallion-like and he’s so easy to handle. He gave me a nice harmonious ride,” said Isobel, who trains with Nina Venables and Calum Whitworth and hopes to do an U25 GP this year.

Right: Emily Coller (20) rode Ann Coller’s Ashley (Tailormade Attention x Blue Hors Don Schufro) to win the HorseLight Medium Silver at Arena UK. Riding to a Calvin Harris compilation, produced by Tony Hobden of Equidance, the Norfolk duo also secured a winning ticket for the Spillers Medium Freestyle Silver.

Above: Calum Whitworth and his Britishbred nine-year-old gelding, Damaris S (by Don Frederic) impressed to win the Superflex Intermediate I Gold regional title at Wellington Riding on a score of 72.50%.

Left: Isobel Goodwin and has owned her Magic Prix St Georges Silver winner, 14-year-old stallion Gameboys Welcome (by Gameboy), since he was

Above: Baileys Horse Feeds Novice Freestyle Gold and Equi-Trek Elementary Silver winners at Bishop Burton, Jodie Reay and Jupiler (Blue Hors Zack x Don Schufro) stormed to victory in both classes by a sizeable margin. Jodie and nineyear-old KWPN gelding ‘Jack’ have a promising track record including a double win at last year’s Port Royal Summer Regional Championships.

KEVIN SPARROW

He’s very un-stallionlike and he’s so easy to handle. He gave me a nice harmonious ride.

Isobel Goodwin on Gameboys Welcome

A balanced view

Do you nd yourself struggling to stay balanced in the saddle? Strength and conditioning coach Neil Lewis , who works with athletes on British Equestrian’s World Class Programme, reveals how some simple off-horse exercises can get you sitting straight again.

When you watch the top dressage riders, it’s easy to admire their effortless connection with their horse as they seemingly guide them with nothing but a thought. However, those of us who regularly spend time in the saddle know that that’s far from the reality – while the communication may be silent, there’s a constant and often complex conversation taking place between horse and rider. This happens through three interfaces – the reins, saddle and stirrups – and, for the messaging to flow smoothly, the rider needs to have a clear understanding of what their body is doing and how their horse is responding.

This bodily awareness requires strength, flexibility and – perhaps most importantly – stability. Riding alone isn’t usually enough to develop these skills, which is why so many elite riders spend time in the gym alongside their on-horse training. However, you don’t need to rush out and sign yourself up for a gym membership – there are some simple exercises you can try at home that can really benefit your riding.

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World Class Para Dressage rider Charlotte Cundall with FJ Veyron.

BRITISH EQUESTRIAN/JON STROUD MEDIA

IN BALANCE

Balance and symmetry are an essential part of your dressage training – without them, it’s impossible to achieve the higher marks in your test. A lack of balance can cause a range of problems in your schooling, from your horse ‘motorbiking’ through the corners, to falling in or out on circles, while asymmetry might see your horse struggling in one direction more than the other. While we often talk about our horses being better on one rein or the other, we don’t always consider why that might be –and whether how we’re sitting in the saddle might be the cause. Imagine you’ve got a rucksack on your back. If the straps are even, you’re probably able to manage the load without too much strain. However, if one strap is shorter than the other, it’s going to be more difficult to remain straight and balanced, and you’ll

probably find yourself having to twist your body to compensate. The same is true of your horse if your weight isn’t equally distributed in the saddle.

Horses prefer predictability, synchronicity, and harmony with their rider, and will develop locomotor compensation strategies in order to remain in balance. However, not only might this cause discomfort – think of that unevenly loaded rucksack –but it will also affect your horse’s performance and increase the risk of injury.

OUT OF KILTER

A common scenario that’s often seen is a rider putting more weight into one seat bone than the other, causing them to tilt their pelvis and upper body. Not only will this uneven weight distribution affect the horse’s balance, it’ll put more pressure through that side of the saddle,

GET IT CHECKED

While a badly fitting saddle or muscle tension might cause your horse to lose performance, they can also affect how you sit in the saddle. Before any intervention is undertaken, get your horse’s tack checked by a qualified saddle fitter, and work with your vet and equine physio ensure he isn’t in any pain.

which may affect the rider’s ability to execute ridden movements on the opposite rein. The situation might be caused by a physical limitation, where the rider is less stable in their lower body on that side, due to a weaker glute, and therefore sits more heavily and unevenly in the saddle.

IDENTIFYING THE PROBLEM

The easiest way to check for this type of weakness in your legs and glutes is to perform a single leg squat.

Single leg squat

1. Stand directly in front of a chair,

with your arms out in front of you and one foot off the floor.

2. Slowly lower into a squat over the chair, trying to keep your body stable, your weight central and your knee in line with your big toe.

3. Return to the start position and repeat with your other leg. In a perfect world, you’d be able to perform the exercise equally well on both sides. However, if one of your legs or glutes isn’t performing optimally, it’s likely that you’ll struggle to stay balanced as you squat on that side and your knee will come out of line with your big toe. This more wobbly side is the one to focus on.

EXERCISES TO TRY

In order to correct the asymmetry in your weaker leg and improve glute function, there are three simple exercises that you can try:

X-band walks

1. Standing up, loop a resistance band from one foot to your opposite hand. Repeat with your other foot and hand so the band forms an X across your body.

2. Step sideways with your weaker leg in a controlled movement, resisting against the band as you do so. >

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Exercises, such as X-band walks (left) can correct the asymmetry of the weaker leg and improve glute function.

FUNDAMENTAL MOVEMENT SKILLS

In order to support rider development and encourage peak performance from both you and your horse, there are a range of fundamental movement skills and physical characteristics that you’ll need to develop:

• Proprioception and motor control – having an awareness of your body’s movement, action and location, and that of your horse, and your ability to control it.

• Dynamic stability – being able to remain stable and mobile in the right places, while having the ability to move through ranges of motion with control and precision.

• Rider symmetry and balance – having the ability to use the reins, stirrups and saddle effectively and evenly, while absorbing the dynamic forces being generated by your horse’s movement.

Legs-only bird dogs

1. Position yourself on your hands and knees on a gym mat.

2. Lift your weaker leg towards the ceiling, making sure to use your glutes rather than your lower back muscles.

Bodyweight front lunge

1. Stand tall with your hands on your hips.

2. Step forward with your weaker leg into a lunge position.

3. Sink into the lunge, keeping your body upright and your weight in your front heel.

A LITTLE GOES A LONG WAY

Perform two sets of 10 reps of each of the exercises. Repeat three times a week until your left and right single leg squat pattern looks more symmetrical. While they might not instantly turn you into the next Lottie Fry, you should start to see a positive difference to your performance in the saddle as your balance and stability improves – and hopefully you’ll get a few more marks on your next dressage test, too.

FIND OUT MORE

Want to find out more about fundamental movement skills and how they can influence your riding? Check out British Equestrian’s Fundamental Skills for Rider Development digital booklet: https://bit.ly/BEF_ FundamentalMovementSkills

OUR EXPERT: Neil Lewis is the Strength and Conditioning Coach for athletes of all disciplines on British Equestrian’s World Class Programme, which is supported by UK Sport and The National Lottery.

PICTURED The legs-only bird dog.

PICTURED Bodyweight front lunges.

“We are so excited about FinesseBridles. Our horses love the freedom these bridles are giving, but at the same time, it gives stability. And... these bridles are beautiful.” LottieFry&AnnevanOlst

A winning beginning

with British Horse Feeds

British Horse Feeds explains how how its range can help when introducing a young dressage horse to work and training for competition, offering the necessary amounts of nutrition, whilst avoiding excess zz or lack of stamina. It isn’t just about the physical demands, they also need a controlled energy source which allows them to focus and take on board new movements alongside the added stimulation of new venues and a competition environment.

SLOW-RELEASE ENERGY

Energy without the fizz is a much used and recognised expression and to achieve this our young horses will need a feed which consists of energy sources that release energy over a prolonged period of time. This is in essence a high fibre diet which also needs to include super fibres as well as oil but should be low in starch which means less cereal based ingredients. Too much energy can cause the horse to lose concentration, not enough can make him look lacking in power and impulsion which will also affect those all-important marks from the judge.

Developing competition horses also require protein for crucial growth and repair of muscles as this in turn increases strength and builds topline which can then assist with the prevention of injury. Research shows that 50% of the amino acid ‘building blocks’ of protein a horse requires needs to be provided through diet.

COOKED LINSEED

British Horse Feeds Cooked Linseed is a good nutritious feed for performance, condition and wellbeing with the vital key element of quality protein alongside high levels of omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids which aid skin and coat condition. It is naturally low in starch and sugar and is an excellent source of slow release, non-heating energy and is also an important source of vitamins, trace elements and natural antioxidants.

With no need to soak the cooked linseed can be fed direct from the bag and is particularly useful for maintaining condition and topline without heating the young horse, which is so important for its development and performance.

FIBRE-BEET

The fibre which provides slow energy release is fundamental to training and working the young competition horse. British Horse Feeds FibreBeet is a versatile, super-fibre conditioning feed and when fed alongside a balanced diet it can improve energy intake whilst keeping fibre levels at an optimum. It also offers an excellent source of highly digestible fibre in a soaked form aiding

rapid rehydration and is perfect for performance horses prone to gastric ulcers successfully providing slow-release energy without the ‘fizz’.

Fibre-Beet is also useful as a pre-exercise meal - it is generally accepted that a major contribution to gastric ulcers is exercising on an empty stomach. The increase in activity for our young horses in training can force stomach acid beyond the protective layer of the stomach, where it can burn the squamous region. However, Fibre-Beet contains pectin a form of soluble fibre which can bind and extend the mucus lining of the stomach extending the physical protection within the stomach. In addition, both alfalfa and beet pulp have a high acid binding capacity; basically this sucks in and traps free acid, raising the pH of the stomach contents. Fibre-Beet is also fed as a wet feed; this encourages chewing and increased saliva giving greater buffering power. Finally, Fibre-Beet can also be fed in smaller more frequent meals which has been shown to have a significant effect in aiding gastric health.

DON’T JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT…

Well-known event rider and young horse producer, Heidi Woodhead has a yard of talented youngsters based near York. Heidi and her husband Ian’s horses always look in the best of health with the support of sponsor British Horse Feeds.

“At DHI Event Horses, we feed British Horse Feeds Cooked Linseed as a staple part of our horses’ daily diets, alongside Fibre-Beet. It is fed to all of our horses from the very youngest up to top level competition. I am delighted with how well the horses look. Fibre-Beet is fantastic for helping to keep the horses in excellent condition and since adding the Cooked Linseed their coats have definitely improved to another level.

“The feed is great for adapting their diets whether a young horse just starting out and needing extra condition to the horses that are fit and out eventing, that need to have plenty of stamina for the cross-country but be calm and focused for the dressage.”

“When we bring our youngsters aged two and three up from the field which is usually around mid to end October we like to feed them Fibre-Beet to help with the change of management from grass to the stable with only a limited amount of turnout weather permitting. It’s great for their digestion and hydration which alongside more or less ad-lib hay provides all their nutritional needs and keeps them beautifully shiny in their coats. If any of them are looking a little poor we will add Cooked Linseed for that little bit extra. Many of our livelier youngsters continue to thrive on this diet which maintains their condition as the ridden work increases,” said Geri Eilberg from the international dressage dynasty based in Worcestershire.

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A bit of clarifi cation

Bits are an inexhaustible talking point in equestrian sport, and while dressage aims to keep it simple, there are a wide range of options. Jane Carley looks at what is and isn’t permitted under BD rules.

As the National Governing Body for the sport, British Dressage aims to put the horse at the heart of everything we do. As stated in the FEI’s Object and Principles: “The object of dressage is the development of the horse into a happy athlete through harmonious education.” Importantly, this includes the correct fitting of tack and equipment. BD’s Code of Conduct for Horse Welfare includes these key phrases: “Tack must be designed and correctly fitted to avoid the risk of pain or injury”, and “poorly fitted, over tightened or inappropriate tack can cause pain, injury or discomfort.”

Bitting used to be pretty straightforward, with a limited number of snaffle designs for horses at the beginning of their careers and an arguably even smaller pool of Weymouth and bridoon options for double bridles.

Recent advances in designs and materials have resulted in much wider choices, many of which offer highly useful solutions while training horses and some may also be used in competition. Any changes to rules on permitted tack and equipment are made by the FEI and BD after consultation with a panel of veterinary and welfare experts, with requirements updated in the

published rule book. It’s worth remembering that bits that fall outside of these regulations cannot be used for BD training activity – not just in the warm-up and competition arena.

As BD Chief Executive Jason Brautigam explains: “Due to our close affiliation to the FEI, we aim to align our rules on tack and equipment wherever possible, particularly for those decisions that are based on equine welfare. For national competitions we want to give members the choice to use the bits and bridles that are best suited to their horse, which is why the snaffle is optional up to Grand Prix. However, the overriding considerations remain the comfort and safety of the horse, to promote a harmonious way of going and ensure that the rider does not have a negative impact.”

A complete guide to permitted tack and equipment is published on the

BD website and can be downloaded for easy reference when choosing a bit or checking tack before competing.

MATERIALS AND DESIGN

Snaffle, bridoon and curb bits must have a smooth surface. Twisted and wire bits are prohibited. Bits must be made of metal, durable plastic synthetic material or flexible rubber. Bits may be covered with rubber/latex. Bits must not place mechanical restraint upon the tongue. The diameter of the mouthpiece of the bridoon/snaffle and/ or curb must be such so as not to hurt the horse – the minimum diameter of mouthpiece is 12mm for a curb bit, and 10mm for a bridoon bit. Snaffles must have a minimum diameter of 12mm for horses and 10mm for ponies. The diameter of the mouthpiece is measured adjacent to the rings or the cheeks of the mouthpiece.

PICTURED

Bits may be made of a variety of materials and in different designs – some will suit particular horses better than others.

PICTURED

Most riders have a wide selection of bits in their tackroom – but not all are permitted for competition. Can you spot which is which in this image?

SNAFFLE BITS

Snaffles may be designed with loose ring, D-ring, Eggbutt (below) or hanging cheeks. Single or double jointed snaffles may also be used with upper or lower cheeks, full cheeks or Fulmer cheeks. Loose rings may have a sleeve fitted around part of the ring.

A double jointed snaffle or snaffle with rotating mouthpiece (below) may be shaped to allow tongue relief. The maximum height of the deviation is 30mm from the lower part of tongue side to the highest part of the deviation. The widest part of the deviation must be where the mouthpiece contacts the tongue and must have a minimum width of 30mm. The mouthpiece of a jointed or unjointed snaffle may be shaped in a curve within the dimensions specified above.

Bit guards are not permitted, and bits may not be attached to the bridle via a clip, including on ergonomic bridles or a keeper on full cheek snaffles.

A snaffle may have up to two joints. A barrel or ball joint is permitted as the centre link in a double jointed snaffle, however, the surface of the centre piece must be solid with no moveable parts other than a roller. The centre link may be tilted in a different orientation from the mouthpiece but must have rounded edges and may not have the effect of a tongue plate.

Left top: The centre link may not have the effect of a tongue plate.

Left middle: French link with Eggbutt cheeks

Left bottom: A barrel as the centre link is permitted

Below: A typical lozenge joint – solid with no moveable parts.

Right: A common combination when training – a loose ring snaffle with rubber bit guards, attached to the cheekpieces via clips – but neither the clips or bit guards are permitted for competition.

BRIDOON BITS

A bridoon bit is defined as a snaffle bit that is used together with a curb bit to form a double bridle.

Bridoons may be used with loose ring and eggbutt cheeks and must have one or two joints. A barrel or ball joint is permitted as the centre link in a double jointed bridoon, however, the surface of the centre piece must be solid with no moveable parts other than a roller. The centre link may not have the effect of a tongue plate.

Bridoons where the centre link(s) of the bit can lock and have the effect of a mullen mouth snaffle are not permitted.

CURB BITS

The length of the lever arm below the mouthpiece of the curb bit is limited to 10cm. The upper cheek must not be longer than the lower cheek and must not exceed 5cm. If the curb has a sliding mouthpiece, the lever arm of the curb bit below the mouthpiece

should not measure more than 10cm when the mouthpiece is at the uppermost position.

Curbs may have straight or S-shaped cheeks. They may not have rotating lever arms.

The mouthpiece may be straight or shaped to allow tongue relief. The maximum height of the deviation is 30mm from the lower part of tongue side to the highest part of the deviation. The widest part of the deviation must be where the mouthpiece contacts the tongue and must have a minimum width of 30mm.

The curb chain can be made of metal or leather or a combination.

A cover (optional) for the curb chain can be made of leather, rubber or sheepskin. Curb chain hooks can be fixed or not fixed. A lip strap is optional.

DESIGNS ON LINKS

One of the few changes to the BD rules for 2023 concerns the links used in double jointed snaffles. Whereas the angled plate of a Dr Bristol snaffle has been prohibited for some time, it is now joined by other links which have the effect of a flat plate.

Independent bit fitter Amy Burr, a member of the Association of Professional Bit and Bridle Fitters and also a veterinary physiotherapist explains how bits with links act on the horse’s mouth.

“The bit moves in the horse’s mouth depending on the head angle/ position and the amount of contact taken up by the rein. A link can rotate into the tongue. The French link sits perpendicular to the tongue and creates four points of pressure – two on the palate and two on the tongue. When a flat plate rotates in the horse’s mouth, it presents a thin, sharp edge to the tongue.”

A lozenge or rounded link has a larger surface area on the tongue, she points out.

“They are designed to rotate and be more comfortable in the horse’s mouth.”

When choosing a bit, Amy stresses that it’s important to look at how it sits in the horse’s mouth.

“The torus linguae is a block of thick muscle in the tongue – when the bit slides back and meets this you can get an evasion. This is sometimes addressed with a lozenge or a plated bit, or you may wish to consider an angled mouthpiece or port.”

She cautions that an immediate lightness down the rein after may actually be hypersensitivity, as the horse is resisting the bit by backing away from the contact rather than reaching out to it.

“There can be a big improvement with the right set up, but the horse can also take many months to adapt to the change in posture for a long term improvement in its development.”

PICTURED

Above: A sliding mouthpiece on a curb bit is permitted. This bridoon has loose rings and a single joint; check the diameter of the mouthpiece on bridoons – it should be a minimum of 10mm.

Inset: A fixed mouthpiece curb.

DESIGNS ON BITS

STÜBBEN FINE LINE

WEYMOUTH AND BRIDOON

SPRENGER KK ULTRA LOOSE

RING SNAFFLE features a middle link, known as the bean, that is shortened and angled forward. This ensures the bit lies gently on the tongue and results in even and constant contact to allow clear instructions through the reins. Providing a precise contact between rider and horse, you can normally see a huge improvement after switching to the KK Ultra bit. Featuring an anatomically-adapted mouthpiece that is extremely comfortable for the horse, as the rider can give softer instructions.

RRP: £125.50 | zebraproducts.co.uk

Both bits are made out of the finest stainless steel with no rough edges. They offer long durability due to selected materials and special processing technology which ensures that bit holes and link pieces remain intact for longer. The mouthpiece of the Weymouth bit has been designed to be flat in the middle where it lays on the tongue, to give the horse as much space as possible in its mouth. The bridoon has an anatomical form creating plenty of space for the horse’s tongue to work. Both bits work together to create a comfortable and effective contact.

RRP: Bridoon £58.50 Weymouth £144.50 | stuebben.co.uk

NOVOCONTACT BITS are designed with a unique oval shape which widens the contact surface on the tongue while the rider keeps a steady contact. As the rider gives a rein aid the mouthpiece turns forward and the contact surface gets narrower, ensuring more precise and effective communication. Novocontact bits improve the interaction between horse and rider for a better contact and acceptance of the bit. Tests have shown that single jointed novocontact bits can be highly recommended for horses that do not take the contact confidently. They provide added benefit for horses with a sensitive mouth, since the rider is able to give precise but soft aids. Double jointed novocontact bits are also ideal to use on horses that occasionally tend to pull against the hand, but are too sensitive to be ridden with stronger bits.

STÜBBEN EASY CONTROL LOOSE

RING SNAFFLE is made from stainless steel. The bit provides an enhanced effect with minimum pressure on the reins, allowing the rider to ride with gentle and sensitive aids. If the horse becomes strong, the bit will lock across the joint and create a firmer contact, then reverting back to the original state of a simple loose ring snaffle once the horse relaxes again. This bit enables easier communication between horse and rider when working through the levels in dressage training, encouraging the horse to correct the contact and become consistent in all gaits and movements.

RRP: £67.50 | stuebben.co.uk

RRP: from £128.90 | zebraproducts.co.uk

PRONAMIC BY BREDOW-WERNDL bits are anatomically-curved single jointed bits featuring a forward flared port. These bits encourage horses to carry themselves and to step forward to the hand/bit while staying elevated and through the neck. Developed in collaboration with dressage rider Jessica von Bredow-Werndl, the current Olympic Gold Medallist and multiple German Champion, European and World Team Champion. These bits are recommended for horses that have completed the basic training levels correctly and solidly. Compared to regular anatomically curved models, Pronamic bits relieve the lower bars which makes them especially suitable for sensitive horses or for horses with a thin tongue. Due to the special shape of the bit, the rider has a more effective influence without having to become too strong. This can prevent overreactions, such as head banging and evading the bit and improves the harmony between rider and horse.

RRP: from £131.90 | zebraproducts.co.uk

ELITE STALLIONS

BLUE HORS VICONTE

Elite Stallions is thrilled to present the wonderful Blue Hors Viconte (Vivaldi x Sandro Hit x Brentano) standing in the UK for 2023. This elegant young son of Vivaldi, combines two of the strongest lines of performative stallions in recent dressage history. Vivaldi and Sandro Hit both had successful competitive

The legendary Sandro Hit need’s little introduction. He dominated the dressage breeding scene in the 2000’s and has produced over 190 licensed sons, most famous among them Sir Donnerhall, San Amour and Stedinger. At the 2021 Olympic Games in Tokyo, there were no less than nine offspring of Sandro Hit competing, with Showtime FRH taking the team gold and Salvino taking team silver.

Viconte’s damline is one of the most successful and productive in Germany in recent times and has produced approved stallions such as Quarterback, Quarterhit and Don Royal. The full sister of Viconte’s dam, Poetin II, won the World Championship for Young Horses as a five-year-old and afterwards sold for €2.5 million at the P.S.I auction, making her the most expensive riding horse sold at the time.

GRACE AND ELEGANCE

Viconte is a long legged and strikingly beautiful stallion, that oozes elegance. As well as wonderful movement, he has inherited from his sire great trainability and rideability. Head rider at Elite Dressage, Beth Bainbridge, described him as ‘a horse that gives you a very grand feeling when you sit on him. He has a very pleasing frame, with a good length of rein and is light and easy in the contact.’ Although he has not long been with the team at Elite, they are already in love with him. Milo Johnston helped to transport Viconte back to the UK and described him as ‘a very friendly and personable guy. He really likes people and is not shy, but without being in your face. He travelled beautifully, was totally relaxed and took everything in his stride.’

Beth has already been busy getting Viconte used to all aspects of his new home at Elite Dressage in Devon, he has been ridden in both the indoor and outdoor arena and has made his maiden voyage hacking around the fields, approaching everything with a willing and positive outlook. With his fantastic temperament, movement and bloodlines, Viconte has everything he needs to be a top sire. His first crop of foals are already looking hugely promising, with several auction highlights among them, including the highest priced foal at the Westfalen auction. The future most certainly looks bright for this rising star.

For more information on Blue Hors Viconte please see: or www.elitestallions.co.uk elite_stallions_uk

Search for your star

Finding your next dressage superstar, or just a nice horse to enjoy the journey with is an art and a science. Bret Willson, who specialises in selecting talented prospects for aspiring champions globally, offers some expert tips.

QHow do you go about sourcing dressage horses for your clients?

We are very lucky to have a select handful of people that are sourcing and testing horses worldwide on our behalf on a daily basis. It’s so important to see a horse live, as often they can be very different live to on a video.

QWhat do you look for in the bloodlines of horses for purchase? Is proven performance a priority or are other factors more important?

I look for consistency in bloodlines, stallions that show they can produce year after year. However, we definitely believe other factors are more important; bloodlines are only a guideline to ability, soundness and mindset. A good horse most importantly comes down to attitude to work and athletic ability.

QWhat do you look for at a viewing?

We are looking for star quality: the horse must have good athletic ability with three good paces and most importantly must show a good mindset to the training. A lot can be achieved just by good training.

QWhat are the pros and cons of buying from auctions vs private vendors?

I think auctions can be off-putting for less experienced buyers especially if they are abroad, however, there are many reputable auction houses that do a great job in helping individual clients find their perfect horse. I would always rely on my own vet’s opinion when it comes to pre inspection vettings, as in many cases interpretations between vets can vary.

QAre there particular channels to consider for an amateur rider?

No, not necessarily. I think you should always trust your own judgement and if you are in a dilemma, take someone you trust with experience, who knows your capabilities, to give you a second opinion.

QHow do you define if a horse is suitable for the rider’s aspirations and level of experience?

I think this comes down to experience, we are very lucky in that most of our clients are professionals themselves and therefore know exactly what they are looking for. However, when we have a less experienced client, we always like to speak with their trainer to define what the customer’s strengths and weaknesses are. This really helps us as the trainer will know their client’s ability much better than we can assess it in a short space of time.

QWhat should UK purchasers expect when trying a horse in Europe?

Again this depends on who and where you are purchasing the horse from. If you are purchasing privately you tend to find more often than not they will be shown in an indoor school. Make sure you try them outside as well – as we all know, environment has a lot to do with the horse’s overall behaviour, particularly if it is a younger horse. And of course, ensure that you see someone else on the horse first.

QWhat should a purchaser request in terms of vetting and x-rays, and how does this differ between purchasing in the UK and in Europe?

Whether you are purchasing from the UK or Europe, the vetting and x-rays should ideally be the same. Most insurance companies will ask for x-rays if the horse to be insured is valued over £12,000. Equally, I cannot stress the importance of a good clinical vetting. Also, tendon scans can be a useful indication of the horse’s general wear and tear, especially, if the horse is already trained to a higher level.

QWhat do you look for at a vetting?

Obviously the clinical vetting and x-rays are important for resale, however, it is more important that a horse is clinically sound. It is also very rare to find a horse that is completely remark-free and the question should always be “are the findings going to affect the horse’s ability to do what it has been purchased for?”

QOther than transport are there any additional costs associated with buying a horse from Europe?

Since we have left the EU there is VAT at 20% to pay on all imported horses, which is worked out on the overall price of the horse, plus the transport costs and the administration fee. Also, geldings that are born outside the EU are subject to 11.5% import duty. However, if they are born in the EU and can show proof i.e. breeding papers or passport this is excluded.

QWhat paperwork is needed to import a horse and what timescales are involved?

Due to import charges, the paperwork has more than doubled since our exit from the EU. An invoice of purchase is required with exact details of the horse being imported and cost, health and transport papers are also required which will need to be signed by the area’s district vet within 72 hours of the horse leaving. The timescales really depend on the transport company and how busy they are, also where the horse is located makes a difference, from central Europe to the UK is usually between seven and 10 days.

QWhat paperwork is necessary before registering an imported horse to compete in the UK?

This is usually worked out on the horse’s age. The older the horse is, the more points they come in with. However, if you can get official proof of competition history from the country’s dressage governing body, such as the German FN or the Dutch KNHS, this can be downgraded to the level the horse has been competed at previously.

QWhat is the course of action if a horse is found to be unsuitable or unable to do the job that it was purchased for?

Firstly, it is very important to understand that these are animals not machines, they too have good and bad days. Changes of routine and riding also have a huge bearing on an individual horse’s behaviour, so often it is not the horse’s fault. If the horse has been tried and tested and the vetting and x-rays have been cleared by an independent vet, it is down to the purchaser to prove that the horse is unfit for purpose. I would always advise to speak to the vendors directly and try to resolve a solution on an amicable basis. Often this can be resolved easily with understanding from both sides.

QWhat are the benefits of using an agent to help find your next dressage star?

The benefits of using an agent come down to two very important factors: firstly, finding horses that have the potential ability to be world class,

even with global connections, can be difficult. Very seldom will this type of horse be advertised. Good agents are looking for these horses day in day out. It’s their job and therefore, they see more. Secondly, a top agent will only work with people they can trust, which must be built over years not weeks. The whole process can be made seamless and stress-free with the correct help.

For more information visit bretwillson.com

We are looking for star quality: the horse must have good athletic ability with three good paces and most importantly must show a good mindset to the training.

PICTURED Bret Willson with Ivicii RMD reserve National Champion four-year-old and four-year-old Nexgen Champion 2022, owned by Bret’s partner Rosie Moreton-Deakin.

Keep on moving

Many horse owners are thinking hard about their options for transport these days, whether it’s changing from a lorry to trailer, short-term self-drive hire, hiring over a longer term or even buying with friends.

Hiring is growing in popularity and offers flexibility, says Equi-Trek chief executive Tom Janion. “Short term hire provides the opportunity to occasionally hire a horsebox or trailer for as little as one day to a month, so if you need to get your horse to a vet’s appointment but don’t have your own transport, short term hire makes total sense.

“Mid-term hire covers anything from two to 11 months and is an option for those looking to secure transport for a season, with March to September being popular months and the

option to extend for a month or two. For us, long term hire, between 12 and 36 months, is the fastest growing market.”

This type of hire is similar to a contract hire with a car where you never own the vehicle but have a fixed monthly payment which includes all maintenance (excluding tyres), warranty and running costs. “When hiring you get a brand new or almost new lorry or trailer so can be confident you have safe and reliable transport for a period of time that suits you.”

He adds that long term hire is not registered on the purchaser’s credit record so has much less of an effect on what they can borrow compared to a finance option.

Lower rates are available for long term hire, but Mr Janion says that for greatest flexibility, Flexi-Tow, which Equi-Trek has introduced on its Apollo trailers, allows people to cancel at any

With transport costs rising, Emma Penny takes a look at the options to keep you and your horse on the road.

time after the first 30 days with one month’s notice. The cost includes warranty and all servicing costs; the only additional cost is for damage, up to a limit of £1,000 plus vat.

For anyone who would like to buy a lorry or trailer with finance, manufacturers and companies selling boxes will usually offer this option. Hire Purchase (HP) allows customers to spread the cost with fixed regular monthly repayments, after which they own the horsebox or trailer outright.

INSURANCE MATTERS

Once you have arranged to hire or buy a trailer, or even borrow one, there are other areas which need to be addressed, says insurer KBIS. Its horsebox team manager Lisa Arnold says it is essential to check the towing vehicle’s insurance to ensure you are covered

HIRING OUT YOUR LORRY

Lancashire-based BD member Jan Richardson, whose daughter Darcy is part of the BD Youth programme, has been hiring out her 3.5t lorry on a self-drive basis for the last six months, having seen an opportunity to bring in some revenue to cover the cost of owning and running it.

However, Jan cautions that there is a lot of work (and money) involved, starting with consistently marketing the service.

Her 2010-reg horsebox, on a Renault Master chassis, has a small overnight living area and she stresses that she is very strict about payload. She has chosen a 3.5t lorry as most people are eligible to drive it, but it does restrict what it can carry. “I ask people for their pony or horse details first, and I do turn quite a few people away.”

People hiring the box have to sign a form provided by Jan’s insurer which includes details about payloads and what they are transporting. She also checks drivers’ licence details with DVLA as a clean licence, and being 23 or older is essential for hire.

The cost of insurance was a shock; £2,000 per year for self-drive hire compared with about £400 for her own use. The box is serviced three times a year, and Jan also has breakdown cover which includes full horse recovery.

Before every hire it is washed and disinfected throughout, and is hired out with fresh shavings in the horse area. All hirers are given a detailed tutorial before driving away, including turning out of

gateways in a longer vehicle, but she says damage is inevitable. “You need to have a mindset that you expect damage, and you have to be professional about it.”

Her paperwork states that damage must be paid for, and she has a team locally who are able to fix it quickly and well, but she says that it can be difficult to get the money from people. Time off the road for repair can also affect subsequent hires, she says.

Another drawback is that there have been times when Jan has wanted to use her box but it has been on hire – including when she needed to make an emergency vet trip. Then, she ended up borrowing a friend’s box.

After six months in business, she says she has just about covered the additional insurance cost. “It is a lot of hassle, and I would say that if you have a lovely box and really care about it, don’t hire it out!”

• KBIS adds: If you are thinking of hiring out your horsebox or trailer, check whether or not your current insurance provider will extend your policy to include this use. Also consider cover for the horses you are transporting in case there is an injury caused while being transported; a Care Custody and Control insurance policy would be strongly recommended. You also need to check what operator’s licence etc is required by law:

www.gov.uk/government/publications/ guidance-for-horsebox-and-trailerowners/transporting-horses-inhorseboxes-and-trailers

PICTURED

Right: BD Youth member Darcy Richardson, whose mum Jan set up a lorry hire business to help cover the cost of running their 3.5 tonne horse box.

Below: There are a number of ways to spread the cost of transporting your horses – could hiring work for you?

to tow and whether the insurer requires notification that you will be doing so. “Many car insurance policies will cover any third party damage caused while towing – such as damage to another vehicle in a collision – however it is essential to check with your insurer specifically.”

She says considering cover for the trailer itself is important. “While the vehicle’s insurance will cover third party damages, this does not include damage to the trailer, so having a separate trailer insurance policy

INSURANCE – KBIS’S NEED TO KNOW

• Where a friend borrows your trailer, as long as no money changes hands for its use, the policy for accidental damage, fire, and theft would likely still be valid, but it’s best to check with your insurer to confirm this in advance.

• If you are hiring a trailer from a rental company, it can be tricky to take out short term insurance cover for damage. Establish if this is your responsibility (as the person hiring the trailer) and if so, ask the rental company for a recommendation about who to insure it with, as few companies provide this.

• If you are hiring a horsebox/trailer, check the contract you are required to sign when hiring. Make sure you understand what information you are being requested to provide, especially in the event of an accident/claim as you may be required to pay the policy excess. Walk round the horsebox or trailer with the hire company to look at any preexisting damage and ensure this has been taken into account before driving away. Check you are the correct age to drive as required by the hire company and have the correct driving licence along with any requested DVLA licence check.

is a sensible idea. Trailer insurance includes accidental damage, fire, and theft as standard, but excludes wear and tear.”

Appropriate breakdown cover is essential for times when you may break down while towing and with horses on board. “While you may have breakdown cover for the vehicle that ‘includes towing’ it is vital to check that if your horses are on board, they will be recovered separately. Many standard car breakdown policies do not include this.”

BUYING WITH FRIENDS

When buying a horsebox or trailer as a group, the insurance can be put into the group name or an endorsement can be applied to the policy to show the people who have a financial interest in it, says KBIS.

“It would be beneficial to have a contract written up to confirm how the horsebox or trailer costs will be split between the group, who is responsible for its upkeep, and how/where it will be kept/stored. This is based on the ownership being for social, domestic, and pleasure use. If this is going to be a business venture, you would need to advise any insurer this is going to be the intended use,” says Lisa Arnold.

Short term hire can be for as little as a day, which could be useful if you needed to transport a horse to the vet, for example.

PICTURED If buying a lorry with friends, the insurance can be put in a group name or an endorsement added to show the names of people who have a financial interest in it.

TRANSPORT

ATACANTER HORSEBOXES says that leasing/PCP is now the preferred way for customers to finance their horseboxes as it’s a fixed monthly cost, which is cheaper than a hire purchase monthly cost, and usually the same as the finance on their car. Atacanter also offers daily and monthly rentals.

RRP: Hire from £125 per day | atacanter.co.uk

EQUINE RESCUE SERVICES is one of the UK’s leading horsebox and trailer breakdown services. Just one call to the operators will ensure you and your horses are safe, and regularly informed until the incident is resolved. The nationwide network of mechanical agents will reach you in the quickest possible time to repair or recover your vehicle or trailer, with fresh horse transport provided if your vehicle cannot be fixed.

RRP: Membership from £55 | equinerescue.co.uk

FOXY PREMIER “We use the Foxy boxes daily, it is therefore imperative that they ensure safety and durability. The layout, design and materials used ensure that all our horses have positive experiences from an early age and are confident and calm travellers. Foxy continually evolves to make horses a priority.” Andrew Gould – international dressage rider.

RRP: From £26,500 | foxyhorseboxes.co.uk

EQUI-TREK EQUINOX FOR HIRE The Equinox 3,500kg is a compact and easy-to-drive horsebox that can be driven by anyone on a standard car licence. Featuring a separate living area that comfortably sleeps two people and includes a kitchen area with a combination gas hob and sink. A tack locker provides a practical storage solution for tack and other essential items. Available for short and long term hire.

RRP: From £130 plus VAT per day | equi-trek.com

THEAULT offers high-quality, reliable, secure, durable and innovative horseboxes. Available at Renteo, Theault horseboxes have had a reputation of excellence since 1924. You don’t use your horsebox every day? Offset the cost of your Theault horsebox by hiring it out through Renteo, Europe’s leading platform, and make extra income!

RRP: £POA | build: theault.co.uk, hire: renteo.co.uk

LYNN KELLY TRANSPORT understands that buying a horsebox is a huge commitment and a substantial financial investment, and with rising costs horsebox ownership isn’t always practical. That’s where self-drive hire is a great solution. With fixed costs and discounts on multiple days you can accurately budget your transport for the year. Fully comprehensive insurance and full equine breakdown cover is included.

RRP: From £90/day – 3.5 tonne, or £150/day – 7.5 tonne facebook.com/kellyhorseboxes

WHS WORLD is based in Sheffield and specialises in new and used 3.5 tonne to 4.5 tonne horseboxes by Wildtrack Hossboxes – stallion designs, long stall leisure-style basics, and Weekender boxes. Liz Eadon, our head of sales, comes from a horsey background, having competed all over the UK and understands what is needed in a horsebox, from safety features to small details. Over 30 vehicles are held in stock ready to go, with a range of colours and styles to choose from. Prices include warranty, a full service and MOT.

RRP: From £30,000 | hossboxes.co.uk

Give yourself a break

How do competitors prevent the demands of sport getting ‘too much’? Andrea Oakes investigates.

hen you’ve given your all and you’ve nothing left in the tank, the resulting physical and emotional exhaustion is often described as burnout. It’s a term we typically associate with high-flying city executives and over-worked health professionals, but is burnout something we need to be aware of in the sport we supposedly love?

WWhile most competitors would describe dressage as their passion, there’s no denying the demands: the relentless, year-round schedule of qualifiers and championships, the endless quest for perfection in training, the ups and downs of producing happy, healthy horses and the financial implications of keeping the show on the road. The risk of overdoing it suddenly seems more real.

According to wellbeing speaker and burnout prevention expert Leanne Spencer it is unrealistic to be incessantly firing on all cylinders.

“Think of Serena Williams, the most decorated athlete of all time,”

she says, citing the example of the recently retired tennis star. “Serena didn’t expect to be Wimbledon-fit and at the top of her game year-round. She made continuous small tweaks to her regime, in areas such as hydration, nutrition and sleep, building in those crucial little bits of recovery. Expecting top performance year-round is not sustainable, in my opinion, and it’s not healthy. At some point the cracks will start to show, whether that’s in five years, three years or three months.

“In the corporate world, a lot of people are ‘overtraining’,” adds Leanne, explaining that the Serena analogy can apply to all areas of life. “Even if something is your passion, there’s a risk of burnout if you push things too far. It is possible to fall out of love with your sport.”

If we press on regardless, we can end up running on empty and succumbing to a range of physical and mental issues. Describing these indicators as ‘red flags’, Leanne explains that they can range from anger or despondency to headaches, fatigue and a sense of emptiness. Further common signs include anhedonia (a loss of pleasure in activities you normally enjoy), self-doubt, low self-esteem and the feeling that you’re letting people down.

“The body does keep the score,” she warns. “Sooner or later, you’ll have to stop and take a break.”

THE CONCEPT OF CADENCE

To manage energy, maximise enjoyment and beat burnout in all areas of life, Leanne has designed a four-step method called the Cadence Approach. Here’s how it works:

STEP 1. PREDICT:

“Look ahead at your schedule and ask yourself ‘When are your Wimbledons?’,” she says, suggesting how we should identify the big annual events in our professional and personal lives, such as competitions, training camps, weddings and house moves. “Wouldn’t it be good if you felt ready for these and could perform at your highest level?”

STEP 2. PREPARE:

“Small changes make a big impact,” explains Leanne, who recommends preparing for these events as an athlete would. “Focus on sleep, energy and mental health, remembering to energise, eat well and drink plenty of water. You might gain a 1-2% improvement in sleep quality, for example, by protecting that 1015 minutes before bed to unwind and mentally unpack, keeping the bedroom cool and dark.”

STEP 3. PERFORM:

“Complete the task or challenge to the best of your ability,” she says. “Don’t just hurtle in, though, in your enthusiasm. Respect your red flags, for health and vitality.”

STEP 4. RECOVER:

Leanne stresses the importance of this stage, the ‘slivers of recovery’. “If you have a busy week ahead, double down on sleep the week before,” she explains. “Then thin out your schedule for the following weekend. Build in moments of rest and relaxation to allow your nervous system to recover, such as taking the dogs for a walk or having a bath.”

REDEFINING PRIORITIES

For busy people, surely there’s no time for rest?

“It can help if we reframe the idea,” says Leanne. “Recovery is an essential part of training, yet so often it’s the missing link in our schedule. It’s what we tend to undervalue most, when in fact it’s a superpower.

“We’re not cut out to sustain high levels of focus and concentration,” she adds, explaining that a healthy longterm strategy cannot be based on gritting our teeth just to get us through. “We need to consider our physiology and factors such as the human growth hormone, which is released during sleep and essential for building muscle throughout our adult lives. Slivers

of recovery can be built into the day. Take a moment at the yard to just watch and daydream or do something away from the horses. Try to catch some natural light in the morning and get up from your desk more often, taking regular ‘movement snacks’.

“It’s also important to be adaptable as our circumstances change and through different stages of life,” says Leanne. “The perfect work-life balance is a constantly swinging pendulum, rather than a final point, so the aim should be to stop it from spinning too wildly. By building cadence into our lives, we’re giving ourselves the best chance of peak performance when it matters most.”

leannespencer.co.uk

“The competition timetable has become more intense,” says grand prix rider and trainer Sarah Higgins. “The season seems jam-packed with shows. We’ve always planned downtime for the horses, but the underlying current in the horse world has been that if you’re having a day off yourself, you’re not working hard enough. One of the positive things to come out of the lockdowns is that having a bit of a break is not a bad thing. Unlike other athletes, as a rider you’re managing the horses as well; it can be relentless, and not just in the run-up to big shows.

“At the yard I like to stop and have a cup of tea and a chat with the girls, or call a friend. I try to spend time with people outside of the sport, as it can become insular. And post-Covid, I’m more relaxed about letting myself have a proper holiday. I come back refreshed and find that my riding and teaching are better – and that the horses are usually going better, too.”

Focus on sleep, energy and mental health, remembering to energise, eat well and drink plenty of water.

REGIONAL UPDATES

JUDGE TRAINING

For 2023 Annual CPD requirements for judges, from 1 April 2023 onwards Judges must attend a FULL formal training day from the options below only. Judges are required to attend training at a relevant level, and have until 1 April 2024 to fulfil this full day training requirement.

• Black Horse One Online Seminar

• Module 4 Live Training*

• Principles of Judging Seminar

*A half Module 4 day can be attended alongside an online collectives training or online freestyle training (due to launch in the up-and-coming months) to fulfil the full day requirement. Two separate half Module 4 days can also be used to fulfil the full day requirement.

Small sitting-in training sessions across the regions can be used towards one sitting-in sign off for judges registered for the new system. Judges can also attend these for their own development but are not permitted to use this towards CPD requirements.

General Zoom judge training sessions can be attended for development but are not permitted to be used towards annual CPD.

Anyone not able to complete this is advised to refer to the reinstatement of judges policy on the website, and those unable to fulfil this requirement must write

REGIONAL TRAINING

to officials@britishdressage.co.uk. Judges are reminded that they should be up to date with CPD before they judge.

Online seminars with the eDressage platform Black Horse One are available for all judges including trainees. Please ensure that you register for the relevant seminar either at your current level or the level you are looking to upgrade to.

ONLINE SEMINARS

These seminars are available to book through Horse Monkey. Please filter your search to ‘British Dressage Judges’ to find the booking page. To apply to become a Trainee judge, visit britishdressage.co.uk/judging/ how_to_become_a_judge

Please visit the Judge Horse Monkey page via the QR code where you’ll find all judgerelated booking links including trainee judge registration, system registration, music paper booking, the judge listing form and Zoom judge training sessions.

SOUTH & EAST

DO: Katharine Perry and Sharon Walker (job share)

M: 07872 603871 (Katharine)

M: 07894 232358 (Sharon)

E: southandeast@britishdressage.co.uk

Chairman: Katie Powell 07887 514203

Coaching: Teresa Edmonds 07957 785929

Rachel Wright 07816 235441

Rider training: Nicola Preston 07984 642291 Samantha Williams 07974 225005

BD Youth: Jessica Brown 07852 282983

Ben Grose 07732 435528

Jacqui Durlik 07878 052115

Judges: Fiona Wilson 07803 263983

Para: Joanne Dagley-Cleworth 07967 605566

Marketing: Katie Tysome 07772 571497

Craig Messenger 07591 202175

Nikki Goldup 07769896734

SOUTH & WEST

DO: Amanda Rodgers

M: 07894 232355

E: southandwest@ britishdressage.co.uk

Chairman: Susie Cumine 07860 677 977

Coaching: Amy Blount 07773 228562

Nicky Du Plessis 07398 130955

Rider training: Nicky Du Plessis 07398 130955

BD Youth: Tina Burrow 07967 912785

Clare Deithrick 07446 265843

Judges: Alicia Anderson 07778 898499

Para: Mark Cunli e 07717 727147

Marketing: Sharon Stuart 07912 225700

Paula Holland 07748 666794

NORTH WEST

DO: Alex Phillips

M: 07495 013192

E: northandwest@ britishdressage.co.uk

Chairman: Jane Critchley 07966 865604

Coaching: Alison Calvert 07980 886004

Rider training: Jackie Crombie 07816 216594

BD Youth: Kate Tomlinson 07770 803115

Judges: Denise Glanville 07966 303633

Brenda Pamplin 07415 203766

Richard Baldwin 07903 942498

Para: Diane Fisher 07477 604178

Marketing: Anna Tomlinson 07773 428176

NORTH & EAST

DO: Jo Byrne

M: 07783 791191

E: northandeast@ britishdressage.co.uk

Chairman: Sarah Farrand 07941 640148

Coaching: Charlotte Wilson 07949 076141

Rider training: Rachel Longworth 07863 970192

Alison Timmins 07867 304327

Jessy Grove 07747 055951

BD Youth: Jess Gri iths 07590 732896  Charlotte Clark 07786 344617

Judges: Helen Copeland 07877 306864

Para: Vicky Earnshaw 07919 684181

Marketing: Sarah McClarron 07557 281360

SCOTLAND

DO: Ashley Stewart

M: 07584 147258

E: scotland@ britishdressage.co.uk

Chairman: Caroline Paterson 07554 086211

Coaching: Michael Whippey 07870 542349

Rider training: Linda Thompson 07919 441039

BD Youth: Kerry Sutherland 07720 085248

Judges: Gillian Peters 07501 444132

Para: Contact DO

Marketing: Jade Struthers 07852 411979 Sam Turpitt 07801 428333

WALES

DO: Vanessa Archer M: 07398 763414

E: wales@ britishdressage.co.uk

Chairman: Mike Mullis 07706 940315

Coaching: Nina Boex 07966 032090

Rider training (North Wales): Helen Hopewell 07971 490038

Rider Training (South Wales): Bethan Powell 07545 082247

BD Youth (North Wales): Anna Roberts 07786 674893

BD Youth (South Wales): Briony Cutler 07889 817609

Quest: Emma Thompson-Warren 07747 611274

Judges: Dianne Breeze 07491 531953

Para: Donna Rooney 07969 747817

Marketing: Cethin Ravenhill 07974 900941

To find details of regional training, including clinics, test riding, social activities, demos and much more, simply open the camera on your device and scan the codes opposite. Alternatively, visit the BD website, find your region and head to the regional training page via your web browser.

BD ACTION

BRITISH DRESSAGE BOARD APPOINTMENTS

In line with the British Dressage Articles of Association, the following Director positions are due for renewal this year.

• Sport Operations Director

• Business Development Director

• Finance Director

Sport Operations Director

This is a member elected position and the current post-holder is eligible to be nominated for re-election for a second four-year term.

This notice is being posted as required under articles 18.8 and 18.9, to invite those wishing to stand for election to formally submit their nominations.

Nomination forms are available on the British Dressage website, or on request from the BD office, and the closing date for all applications is midday on Friday 5 May 2023.

All applicants will be reviewed by the Nominations Committee, in accordance with Article 23.3, with interviews conducted, before the successful candidate(s) are put forward for election by members in the summer. An electronic ballot will be held in July and August

JUDGE RETIREMENTS

2023, with all BD members able to cast their votes online.

The result will be formally announced at the 2023 British Dressage Annual General Meeting (date and venue to be confirmed). Please note that the membership vote is binding and not subject to formal ratification at the AGM. However, the positions will continue to take effect from the date of the AGM.

Extra Director Appointments

In addition, we are inviting applications for two Extra Director appointments to the Board, with specific expertise in the areas of Business Development and Finance. The current post holders are both eligible to be re-appointed for a second four-year term.

As detailed under article 18.6.3, after the closing date for applications, the Nominations Committee will interview shortlisted candidates. Nomination forms are available on the British Dressage website, or on request from the BD office, and the closing date for all applications is midday on Friday 5 May 2023.

The Board shall appoint or (if relevant) re-appoint the

Keep

Extra Director, based on the recommendation received from the Nominations Committee.

Please note that these two positions are not subject to a membership vote.

All Applicants

All applicants for the three roles, will need to meet the specific knowledge, experience and competencies required for a Board Director, which are available on the BD website, together with the role descriptions for each position: britishdressage.co.uk/our-sport/ British-dressage/structure-andgovernance Candidates will need to provide a full curriculum vitae, together with a supporting statement

KEY DATES

detailing how they meet the role requirements, as well as complete and submit the declaration of interests form, by midday on Friday 5 May 2023.

Details of the nominees, including any candidates nominated by the Board of British Dressage under Article 18.7.2, will appear in the BD magazine and on the BD website.

This is an ideal opportunity for members to get more involved in helping us shape and develop future strategy for the sport and organisation. To request a nomination form, or for further information on any of these Board positions, please email: ceo@britishdressage.co.uk or call 02477 087805.

15-16 Apr Combined Training Championships, Onley Grounds, Warwickshire

19-23 Apr NAF Five Star Winter Championships and Petplan Equine Winter Area Festival Championships, Hartpury, Gloucestershire

08-11 May Windsor CDI4*, Berkshire

08-14 May I.C.E. Horseboxes All England Dressage Festival, Hickstead, West Sussex, incorporating CDI3*, CPEDI3*/2*/1* and Premier League

18-20 May Para Home Nations, Onley Grounds, Warwickshire

20-21 May Senior Inter Regionals, Onley Grounds, Warwickshire

26-28 May Somerford Premier League, Cheshire

06-08 Jun Festival of Para Dressage, Wellington Riding, Hampshire

06-11 Jun Wellington Premier League, Hampshire

Wanda Grenville Hill (List 3) and Heather Le Fort (List 5) from the South & West region, Margaret Roberts (List 5) from the Wales region, Alan Rogers (List 5) and Wendy Taylor (List 5) from the North & West region, and Janet Watson (List 4) from the South & East region have retired from the Judges Panel. British Dressage would like to thank Wanda, Heather, Margaret, Alan, Wendy and Janet for all their hard work and support over the years and wishes them all the best for the future.

08-11 Jun Wellington Riding CDI3*, Hampshire

21-24 Jun Vale View Premier League, Leicestershire

01-02 Jul BD Youth Inter Regionals, Vale View Equestrian, Leicestershire

02-09 Jul Hartpury Festival of Dressage, Gloucestershire, incorporating CDI3*, CPEDI3*, KBIS Young Pony Championships, KBIS Young Horse Semi-Finals and Premier League

A comprehensive list of major dates can be found online at britishdressage.co.uk/competitions/international-and-major-dates

Tanya Buckingham-Lloyd Dressage Rider, Eventer & Trainer

BALE

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Dressage Rider, Eventer & Trainer

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Competitions: Schedules.

SCHEDULES 1 JUN – 16 JUL 2023

ADDINGTON EQUESTRIAN

RADFORDS EQUESTRIAN CENTRE,

HUNTERS EQUESTRIAN,

ALLENS HILL COMPETITION & LIVERY CENTRE, WORCESTERSHIRE

Competitions: Schedules.

SOLARIUMS

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EPWORTH

SQ

Equissage Pulse PE1GPB 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE2GPB 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE3GPB 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE4GPB 2023 SQ

SCOTTISH

CHECKENDON EQUESTRIAN

FEI FSMINT1 2022

WINDMILL FARM, BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

Test

Equissage Pulse PE1IN 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE1INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE1GPB 2023 SQ PE1GPA 2023

Equissage Pulse PE2IN 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE2INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE2GPB 2023 SQ

PE2GPA 2023

Equissage Pulse PE3IN 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE3INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE3GPB 2023 SQ

PE3GPA 2023

PE4INWT 2023

Equissage Pulse PE4IN 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE4INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE4GPB 2023 SQ

2023

Pulse PE3GPF 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE3BSFT 2021 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE4GPF 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE4BSFT 2021 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE5GPF 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE5BSFT 2021 SQ

HORSE EXERCISER

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Competitions: Schedules.

SOLARIUMS

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KINGS

WIDMER

CENTRE,

Continually

#1

Passionately

Competitions: Schedules.

KYLIX UK LIMITED

TALL

PADDOCK CLEANERS

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Fairfax Saddles FEI PSG 2022 SQ

FEI FSMPSG 2022

Saracen Horse Feeds FEI INTI 2022 SQ

FEI FSMINT1 2022

FEI INTII 2022

FEI GP 2022

FEI FSMGP 2022

PYOFEI

Equissage Pulse PE1IN 2023

Equissage Pulse PE1INTA 2023

Equissage Pulse PE1GPB 2023 SQ PE1GPA 2023

Equissage Pulse PE2IN 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE2INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE2GPB 2023 SQ PE2GPA 2023

Equissage Pulse PE3IN 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE3INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE3GPB 2023 SQ

PE3GPA 2023

PE4INWT 2023

Equissage Pulse PE4IN 2023 SQ

2023

Equissage Pulse PE5INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE5GPB 2023 SQ

2023

Equissage Pulse PE1GPF 2023

Equissage Pulse PE1BSFT 2021

Equissage Pulse PE2GPF 2023

Equissage Pulse PE2BSFT 2021

Equissage Pulse PE3GPF 2023

Equissage Pulse PE3BSFT 2021

Equissage Pulse PE4GPF 2023

Equissage Pulse PE4BSFT 2021

Equissage Pulse PE5GPF 2023

Equissage Pulse PE5BSFT 2021

ONLEY GROUNDS EQUESTRIAN CENTRE, WARWICKSHIRE

HORSE EXERCISER

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Competitions: Schedules.

PRESTIGE

DUCATI STANDING AT STALLION AI

Ducati was the champion stallion at the British Hanoverian Horse Society and the Warmblood Breeders’ Studbook UK licensing in 2022. He combines the celebrated bloodlines of Desperados FRH and Sir Donnerhall I. Ducati, bred in Vorwerk, Germany by Johann-Hinrich Koj, is an elegant, beautiful, modern type with a very elastic trot and canter. He is also supple, adjustable and intelligent over jumps, coming from an elite motherline of event horses.

At his licensing, head judge Dr Ludwig Christmann commented that “He stood out as the winning stallion of the entire licensing. The stallion ideally combines the advantages of both parents: Really good type and movement, long legged and compact with a strong back, in addition very athletic and with a lot of energy that can be regulated very well”.

Sire Desperados FRH (De Niro x Wolkenstein II) was a beautiful black horse, formidable in competition and as a breeding stallion. Desperados ranked number 1 for Dressage Horses in the 2016 FEI/WBFSH Sire Rankings and was also crowned Hanoverian Stallion of the Year 2016. Trained and competed by Falk Rosenbauer, he moved up to Grand Prix level and won the 2010 Hamburg Dressage Derby. In 2011

Kristina Sprehe took over the ride and they became the Otto Lorke Prize recipients for the best young Grand Prix horse. They won medals at the 2012 London Olympics, 2014 World Equestrian Games and 2013 and 2015 European Championships. At the Rio Olympics in 2016 they won Team Gold and Kur Bronze. In 2012 Desperados was awarded the Grande Prize entitling him to his FRH su x.

Dam Feldgoldchanti (Sir Donnerhall I x Beach Boy) is an elite Oldenburg mare who competed to 3* eventing and comes from the motherline of a number of premium stallions.

Ducati is an absolute joy to work with at home and is a kind horse with a wonderful work ethic. We are delighted to be able to o er him to British Breeders from 2023 and look forward to seeing his rst crop of foals.

DUCATI

Stud Fee: £850

Chilled Stud Fee: £850

Collection Fee: two collections included in stud fee

Disciplines: Dressage and Eventing

For more information contact Lynne Crowden: woodlanderstud@ mac.com 07768 323351

Molasses Free Soft Fibre Blend

A non-heating bre blend for topline and condition

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Amy B.

Competitions: Schedules.

MANOR GRANGE STUD, WEST YORKSHIRE

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MOULTON COLLEGE EQUESTRIAN CENTRE,

PACHESHAM EQUESTRIAN CENTRE,

Competitions: Schedules.

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KINGSTON

MORETON MORRELL,

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BURY

NEWBOLD

FEI

BURROWS COURT FARM, GLOUCESTERSHIRE

Competitions: Schedules.

CHERWELL

2023

Equissage Pulse PE4INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE4GPB 2023 SQ PE4GPA 2023

Equissage Pulse PE5IN 2023 SQ PE5INWT 2023

Equissage

Equissage

Competitions: Schedules.

SOLARIUMS

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THE GRANGE EQUESTRIAN

SADDLESDANE EQUESTRIAN CENTRE,

WEST WILTS EQUESTRIAN CENTRE,

SILVER LEYS EQUESTRIAN,

SELF DRIVE HIRE THE ADVANTAGES

Buying a horsebox is a huge commitment and a substantial nancial investment which isn’t for everybody. With rising running costs horsebox ownership isn’t always practical and that’s where Self Drive Hire is a great solution. Perhaps you are considering buying a horsebox and hiring will allow you to see if a horsebox is right for your horse without the risk of purchasing straight away.

With xed costs and discounts on multiple days you can accurately budget your transport for the year. Fully comprehensive insurance/ Full Equine Breakdown Cover is included.

A Firm Favourite with Leading Riders

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Charlotte Dujardin

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Carl Hester

PRICES START FROM JUST £90 A DAY

Competitions: Schedules.

KYLIX UK LIMITED

KELSALL HILL EQUESTRIAN CENTRE, CHESHIRE

FRI 16 JUN

EC: 06/06/2023 TIMES: 13/06/2023 10:00;

Sponsor Test

Equissage Pulse PE1IN 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE1INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE1GPB 2023 SQ

PE1GPA 2023

Equissage Pulse PE2IN 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE2INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE2GPB 2023 SQ

PE2GPA 2023

Equissage Pulse PE3IN 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE3INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE3GPB 2023 SQ

PE3GPA 2023

Equissage Pulse PE4IN 2023 SQ

PE4INWT 2023

Equissage Pulse PE4INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE4GPB 2023 SQ PE4GPA 2023

Equissage Pulse PE5IN 2023 SQ

PE5INWT 2023

Equissage Pulse PE5INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE5GPB 2023 SQ

PE5GPA 2023 KINGSWOOD

PADDOCK CLEANERS

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FAIROAK GRANGE EQUESTRIAN CENTRE, BERKSHIRE

TREADMILLS

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+ Delivery & VAT

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KINGS EQUESTRIAN CENTRE,

ROCKROSE EQUESTRIAN SPORTS

HARTPURY UNIVERSITY AND HARTPURY COLLEGE, GLOUCESTERSHIRE

16/06/2023 TIMES: 14/06/2023 15:59; 01452702397

2023 Equissage Pulse PE5IN 2023 SQ Equissage Pulse PE5INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE5GPB 2023 SQ

PE5GPA 2023

PE4INWT 2023

Equissage Pulse PE4IN 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse

2023 SQ

2023 SQ

2023

Equissage Pulse PE3INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE3GPB 2023 SQ

2023

Equissage Pulse PE2IN 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE2INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage

TILLYOCH EQUESTRIAN CENTRE,

Competitions: Schedules.

SQ

Equissage Pulse PE3GPB 2023 SQ PE3GPA 2023 PE4INWT 2023 Equissage

WASHROOM

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INCHCOONANS EQUESTRIAN, PERTHSHIRE

Competitions: Schedules.

Competitions: Schedules.

SOLARIUMS

Uk’s

T:

Fairfax Saddles FEI PSG 2022 SQ

Saracen Horse Feeds FEI INTI 2022 SQ

FEI INTII 2022

FEI GP 2022

QUOB STABLES, HAMPSHIRE

PREMIER LEAGUE – VALE VIEW EQUESTRIAN, LEICESTERSHIRE WED 21 - SAT 24 JUN EC: 07/06/2023 TIMES: 18/06/2023 10:00;

Fairfax Saddles FEI PSG 2022

Saracen Horse Feeds FEI INTI 2022

Stubben FEI INTII 2022

2016

LeMieux FEI GP 2022

Saracen Horse Feeds FEI INTI 2022 Fairfax Saddles FEI PSG 2022

Bret Willson International AM98 2002 Friday 23 June

FEI YRIN 2022

FEI JRIN 2022 COHIN 2022

FEI YPIN 2022

LeMieux FEI GPU25 2022

LeMieux FEI GPSp 2022

Saracen Horse Feeds FEI INTI 2022

Fairfax Saddles FEI PSG 2022

Bret Willson International AM92 2011

Saturday 24 June

FEI JRTE 2022

FEI YPTE 2022

COHTE 2022

FEI YRTE 2022

FEI FSMGP 2022

Stubben FEI INTII 2022

Bret Willson International AM96 2011

WARREN FARM EQUESTRIAN CENTRE, MERSEYSIDE

PRESTIGE

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BISHOP BURTON COLLEGE, EAST

HORSE EXERCISER

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BURROWS COURT FARM, GLOUCESTERSHIRE

COLRAINE EQUESTRIAN CENTRE, CORNWALL

Competitions: Schedules.

PE5GPB 2023 SQ

PE5GPA 2023

BREACH BARN , KENT

CROW WOOD EQUESTRIAN,

LADYLEYS EQUESTRIAN,

MORRIS EQUESTRIAN CENTRE,

Competitions: Schedules.

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FEI

FEI

FEI

PORT ROYAL EQUESTRIAN & EXHIBITION CENTRE, NORTH YORKSHIRE

SWALLOWFIELD

BURY

SOUTH STAFFORDSHIRE COLLEGE,

TUSHINGHAM

WINDMILL FARM,

SUPER JUNIOR / YR HORSE

THE BELL OF THE BALL

GRAND PRIX HORSE

SUPER TALENTED YOUNG HORSE

Competitions: Schedules.

HORSE EXERCISER

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HOLMSIDE

RADFORDS EQUESTRIAN

QUEACH FARM STABLES, SUFFOLK

REASEHEATH COLLEGE,

TALL

SOLARIUMS

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Competitions: Schedules.

SILVER

TOPTHORN

DRESSAGE

Competitions: Schedules.

KYLIX UK LIMITED

FAIROAK

ONLEY

CHARD EQUESTRIAN

PADDOCK CLEANERS

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Special offer for British Dressage members

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CHECKENDON

MYERSCOUGH

Competitions: Schedules.

WASHROOM

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PREMIER LEAGUE – HARTPURY UNIVERSITY AND HARTPURY COLLEGE,

TREADMILLS

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£20,800 + Delivery & VAT

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Competitions: Schedules.

2018

Saracen Horse Feeds FEI INTI 2022

KELSALL HILL EQUESTRIAN

BURROWS

2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE5GPB 2023 SQ

2023 KINGS EQUESTRIAN CENTRE, HEREFORDSHIRE

CHERWELL

Competitions: Schedules.

WASHROOM

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SOLIHULL EQUESTRIAN

ALLENS HILL

plate stallion wildtrack USRII stallion stalls emergency exit doors full saftey features

Competitions: Schedules.

SOLARIUMS

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FEI FSMGP 2022

PYOFEI

Equissage Pulse PE1IN 2023

Equissage Pulse PE1INTA 2023

Equissage Pulse PE1GPB 2023 SQ

PE1GPA 2023

Equissage Pulse PE2IN 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE2INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE2GPB 2023 SQ

PE2GPA 2023

Equissage Pulse PE3IN 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE3INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE3GPB 2023 SQ

PE3GPA 2023

PE4INWT 2023

Equissage Pulse PE4IN 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE4INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE4GPB 2023 SQ

PE4GPA 2023

PE5INWT 2023

Equissage Pulse PE5IN 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE5INTA 2023 SQ

Equissage Pulse PE5GPB 2023 SQ

PE5GPA 2023

Equissage Pulse PE1GPF 2023

Equissage Pulse PE1BSFT 2021

Equissage Pulse PE2GPF 2023

Equissage Pulse PE2BSFT 2021

Equissage Pulse PE3GPF 2023

Equissage Pulse PE3BSFT 2021

Equissage Pulse PE4GPF 2023

Equissage Pulse PE4BSFT 2021

Equissage Pulse PE5GPF 2023

Equissage Pulse PE5BSFT 2021

STOURPORT RIDING CENTRE, WORCESTERSHIRE

KENNAA EQUESTRIAN CENTRE, ISLE

PRESTIGE EQUESTRIAN LLP, GLOUCESTERSHIRE

BEAVER HALL

LADYLEYS EQUESTRIAN,

HORSE EXERCISER

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Competitions: Schedules.

UK SPORT HORSE

WASHROOM

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STOURPORT RIDING CENTRE, WORCESTERSHIRE

FELBRIDGE

Competitions: Schedules.

VALE VIEW EQUESTRIAN, LEICESTERSHIRE

WARREN

HILL HOUSE EQUESTRIAN CENTRE, LINCOLNSHIRE

Specifically designed for controlled exercise and rehab, hydraulic incline, infrared safety beams, whisper quiet, 13 Amp plug supply.

£20,800 + Delivery & VAT

T: 01799 542137 E: sales@kylixuk.co.uk

SADDLESDANE EQUESTRIAN

DRESSAGE

WWW.PHHB.CO.UK | 01483 416555 julia.mcneill@phhb.co.uk

Compact coach built Ladies box for two large horses

easily managed • strong and safe • excellent storage • massive payloads • a joy to drive

Talk to us today and we can design your dream horse box

We work to your budget and design your perfect horse box on your ideal chassis

Animal first aid made easy

Protect your animals skin with Aniwell’s range of antibacterial protective creams & sunblocks

• Antibacterial skin protectors

• Total sunblocks

• Active manuka honey product

• Safe on sensitive skin areas

Available at veterinary clinics, Vet/Pet Pharmacies and Equine/Animal supply stores.

Triflex 100 Joint Formula

PRO SPORTIVE STOCKISTS

Edgemere ltd: www.edgemere.co.uk

Chelford Farm Supplies: www.chelfordfarmsupplies.co.uk

Leighs Animal Feeds: www.leighsanimalfeeds.co.uk

Supplement solutions: www.supplementsolutions.co.uk www.prosportive.co.uk

Competitions: Schedules.

ONLEY

SOLARIUMS

ALNWICK

AREA

WITH MUSIC –ROCKROSE EQUESTRIAN SPORTS CENTRE, EAST LOTHIAN

Uk’s highest quality solariums & washroom products Tie posts, water arms, water heaters, matting, StoKbord walls

T: 01799 542137 E: sales@kylixuk.co.uk W: www.kylixuk.co.uk

Competitions: Schedules.

HORSE EXERCISER

The most advanced available, DIY self build, 4 Horse 52ft 16m with fencing Exerciser £4,330 Fencing £3,500

T: 01799 542137 E: sales@kylixuk.co.uk W: www.kylixuk.co.uk

SUMMER

BLUEGATE HALL FARM,

TILLYOCH EQUESTRIAN CENTRE, ABERDEENSHIRE

TREFOR STABLES EQUESTRIAN CENTRE, ISLE OF ANGLESEY

FORTHCOMING EVENTS 18 JUL – 31 AUG 2023

Venue County

TUE 18 JUL

Widmer Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+PE Buckinghamshire

TUE 18 - THU 20 JUL

Wellington Riding Summer Area Festival & Music Hampshire

WED 19 JUL

Northallerton Equestrian Centre (P-GP) North Yorkshire

Hunters Equestrian (P-INTI) Gloucestershire

Epworth Equestrian (P-AM) South Yorkshire

Tushingham Equestrian Centre (P-M) Cheshire

Speedgate Events (P-AM) Kent

Aike Grange Stud (I-AM)+FS East Riding of Yorkshire

Warren Farm Equestrian Centre (P-M) Merseyside

Mount Ballan (I-GP)+PE Monmouthshire

WED 19 - SUN 23 JUL

Myerscough College Summer Area Festival Lancashire

THU 20 JUL

Field House Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Derbyshire

Bicton Arena (P-PSG) Devon

Solihull Equestrian Centre (P-GP) West Midlands

FRI 21 JUL

Allens Hill Competition & Livery Centre (P-AM)

FRI 21 - MON 24 JUL

Northallerton Equestrian Centre Summer Regional North Yorkshire

SAT 22 JUL

Dressage at Hascombe (P-GP) East Sussex

Pachesham Equestrian Centre (P-GP)+FS Surrey

Moor Farm Equestrian Centre (P-E) Pembrokeshire

Silver Leys Equestrian (P-INTI)+FS Hertfordshire

Quob (P-AM) Hampshire

South Staffordshire College (P-AM)+FS Staffordshire

SAT 22 - SUN 23 JUL

GDG @ The Cabin Equestrian Riding Club (P-GP)+FS Aberdeenshire

SUN 23 JUL

Foxes Riding School (I-E) Cheshire

Hill House Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Lincolnshire

Mendip Plains Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Somerset

Ellands Farm (I-AM) Moray

Codham Park Equestrian (P-GP) Essex

Aike Grange Stud (I-AM)+FS East Riding of Yorkshire

Hargate Arena (I-E) Derbyshire

Fenning Farm (P-PSG) Cambridgeshire

Hunters Equestrian (P-GP) Gloucestershire

Crow Wood Equestrian (P-E) Lancashire

Burrows Court Farm (E-INTII) Gloucestershire

Aintree International Equestrian Centre (P-PSG) Merseyside

Holmside Hall Equestrian (I-AM)+FS Durham

South View Competition & Training Centre (I-AM) Cheshire

Ian Stark Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Borders

THU 27 JUL

Dressage at Belmoredean (P-GP) West Sussex

Radfords Equestrian Centre (P-PSG)+FS Powys

Silver Leys Equestrian (P-AM) Hertfordshire

West Wilts Equestrian Centre (P-PSG) Wiltshire

The Grange Equestrian Centre (P-PSG)+FS Devon

FRI 28 JUL

Anvil Park Stud (P-INTI) Norfolk

Arley Moss (P-PSG) Cheshire

FRI 28 - SAT 29 JUL

Onley Grounds Equestrian Centre (I-GP)+FS Warwickshire

FRI 28 - SUN 30 JUL

Brook Farm Equestrian Club Summer Area Festival & Music Essex

Kingswood Equestrian Centre Summer Area Festival Staffordshire

Worcestershire

Prestige Equestrian LLP (P-GP) Gloucestershire

Onley Grounds Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS+PE Warwickshire

FRI 21 - SAT 22 JUL

Netherton (P-M)+FS

MON 24 JUL

Bury Farm Equestrian Village (P-GP)+FS Buckinghamshire

TUE 25 JUL

Felbridge Showground (P-PSG) West Sussex

Scottish National Equestrian Centre Summer Regional West Lothian

SAT 29 JUL

Kings Sedgemoor Equestrian Centre (P-GP) Somerset

Amersham Dressage (music only P-E) Buckinghamshire

Perthshire and Kinross

Haie Fleurie Equestrian (P-AM)+FS Jersey

FRI 21 - SUN 23 JUL

Bicton Arena Summer Regional Devon

BS Guernsey (P-INTI) Guernsey

TUE 25 - THU 27 JUL

Bury Farm Equestrian Village Summer Regional Buckinghamshire

WED 26 JUL

Topthorn Arena (P-M) Suffolk

Mendip Plains Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Somerset

Tushingham Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Cheshire

Speedgate Events (P-PSG)+FS Kent

Windmill Farm (P-GP) Buckinghamshire

Burrows Court Farm (P-M) Gloucestershire

Colraine Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS Cornwall

Bicton College (I-AM) Devon

Please refer to the BD Schedules webpage for the most up-to-date schedule information. Visit the ‘International and Major Dates’ webpage to see a complete list of 2022 Major Dates.

Beaver Hall Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS Staffordshire

SAT 29 - MON 31 JUL

Beacons Equestrian Summer Area Festival Carmarthenshire

SUN 30 JUL

Hunters Equestrian (P-GP) Gloucestershire

Vale View Equestrian (I-GP) Leicestershire

YORKSHIRE DRESSAGE (P-INTI) South Yorkshire

Chapelton Equestrian Centre (I-M) Highland

Bluegate Hall Farm (P-M) Essex

Tall Trees Arena (P-PSG)+FS Cornwall

Bold Heath Equestrian Centre (P-INTI) Cheshire

Bold Heath Equestrian Centre (P - INTI) Cheshire

Golden Cross Equestrian Centre (P-PSG) East Sussex

Queach Farm Stables (I-AM) Suffolk

Lake Farm (P - INTI) Isle of Wight

TUE 1 AUG

Whitegate Farm (P-GP) Wrexham

Felbridge Showground (P-PSG) West Sussex

TUE 1 - THU 3 AUG

Hartpury University and Hartpury College Summer Regional Gloucestershire

WED 2 AUG

Kings Equestrian Centre (P-PYO FEI) Herefordshire

Port Royal Equestrian & Exhibition Centre (P-GP)+FS North Yorkshire

Hargate Arena (P-E)+FS Derbyshire

THU 3 AUG

Half Moon Stud (P-AM) Dorset

Field House Equestrian Centre (P-INTI) Derbyshire

Solihull Equestrian Centre (P-GP) West Midlands

FRI 4 AUG

Onley Grounds Equestrian Centre (P-GP) Warwickshire

Anvil Park Stud (P-PSG) Norfolk

FRI 4 - SAT 5 AUG

Allens Hill Competition & Livery Centre (P-GP) Worcestershire

FRI 4 - SUN 6 AUG

Alnwick Ford Equestrian Summer Area Festival & Music

FRI 4 - MON 7 AUG

Saddlesdane Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS

Kent

Manor Grange Stud (I-GP)+FS West Yorkshire

Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre (I-AM)+FS Cheshire

Burrows Court Farm (P-M) Gloucestershire

Beacons Equestrian (P-E)+FS Carmarthenshire

Colraine Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS Cornwall

Bluegate Hall Farm (P-AM) Essex

SAT 5 - SUN 6 AUG

The Cabin Equestrian Riding Club (I-AM)+FS+PE Aberdeenshire

SUN 6 AUG

Newton Rigg (I-EQ) Cumbria

Yorkshire Riding Centre (P-AM) North Yorkshire

Cherwell Competition Centre (P-INTII) Oxfordshire

Foxes Riding School (I-M) Cheshire

Suffolk Rural (P-PSG)+FS Suffolk

Field House Equestrian Centre (P-INTI)+FS Derbyshire

Radfords Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS Powys

Merrist Wood College (P-INTI)+FS Surrey

Swallowfield Equestrian (E-PYOA) Warwickshire

Aike Grange Stud (I-AM)+FS East Riding of Yorkshire

Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre PE Cheshire

Tall Trees Arena (I-PSG) Cornwall

Silver Leys Equestrian (P-AM)+FS Hertfordshire

Dark Deer Croft (I-M)+FS Inverness

Hunters Equestrian (P-INTI) Gloucestershire

Stretcholt Farm (P-M)+PE Somerset

SUN 6 - MON 7 AUG

Sheepgate Equestrian (P-INTI)+FS Lincolnshire

TUE 8 AUG

Kings Sedgemoor Equestrian Centre (P-PSG)+FS Somerset

Newbold Verdon Equestrian Centre (P-GP) Leicestershire

TUE 8 - FRI 11 AUG

Sheepgate Equestrian Summer Area Festival & Music Lincolnshire

WED 9 AUG

WED 9 - SUN 13 AUG

Northumberland

Speedgate Events Summer Area Festival & Music Kent

SAT 5 AUG

Highfield at Howe (P-E) Fife

Moulton College Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Northamptonshire

Crow Wood Equestrian (P-M) Lancashire

Snainton Riding Centre (P-AM) North Yorkshire

Beacons Equestrian (P-M) Carmarthenshire

South View Competition & Training Centre (I-AM) Cheshire

Windmill Farm (P-PSG) Buckinghamshire

Kings Equestrian Centre Summer Area

Festival & Music Herefordshire

THU 10 AUG

Bicton Arena (P-PSG) Devon

Dressage at Belmoredean (P-GP) West Sussex

Radfords Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Powys

FRI 11 AUG

Northallerton Equestrian Centre (P-GP)+FS+PE North Yorkshire

Prestige Equestrian LLP (P-AM) Gloucestershire

Stourport Riding Centre (E-PYO FEI) Worcestershire

Anvil Park Stud (P-PSG) Norfolk

Brook Farm Equestrian Club (P-GP) Essex

FRI 11 - SAT 12 AUG

Netherton Equestrian (P-GP)+FS Perthshire and Kinross

FRI 11 - SUN 13 AUG

Bicton Arena Summer Area Festival Devon

BS Guernsey (P-INTI) Guernsey

SAT 12 AUG

Fairoak Grange Equestrian Centre (P-GP) Berkshire

Bishop Burton College (P-GP)+PE East Riding of Yorkshire

Cobham Manor Events (P-AM)+FS Kent

Brahan Dressage (P-AM) Highland

West Park Equestrian Services (I-AM) Durham

Solihull Equestrian Centre (P-GP)+PE West Midlands

Burrows Court Farm (N-AM FSM ONLY) Gloucestershire

Moor Farm Equestrian Centre (P-E) Pembrokeshire

South Staffordshire College (P-AM)+FS Staffordshire

SAT 12 - SUN 13 AUG

Tillyoch Equestrian Centre (P-GP) Aberdeenshire

SAT 12 - MON 14 AUG

Field House Equestrian Centre Summer Area Festival Derbyshire

SUN 13 AUG

Northallerton Equestrian Centre (I-AM) North Yorkshire

Bold Heath Equestrian Centre (P-INTI) Cheshire

Bold Heath Equestrian Centre (P-PYO FEI) Cheshire

Foxes Riding School (I-E) Cheshire

Sunnybank Farm (I-M) Caerphilly

Fenning Farm (P-PSG) Cambridgeshire

Stourport Riding Centre (P-E) Worcestershire

Moreton EC (P-PSG)+FS Dorset

Competitions: Forthcoming Events.

Venue County Venue County Venue County

Blackdyke Farm (P-M) Cumbria

Brook Farm Equestrian Club (P-GP)+FS Essex

Golden Cross Equestrian Centre (P-PSG) East Sussex

MON 14 AUG

Bury Farm Equestrian Village (P-GP)+FS Buckinghamshire

TUE 15 AUG

Reaseheath College (P-GP) Cheshire

TUE 15 - WED 16 AUG

Aintree International Equestrian Centre (P-PSG)+FS

WED 16 AUG

Merseyside

Hill House Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+PE Lincolnshire

Mendip Plains Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Somerset

Vale View Equestrian (I-GP) Leicestershire

Alnwick Ford Equestrian (P-PSG)+FS Northumberland

Tushingham Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Cheshire

Aike Grange Stud (I-AM)+FS East Riding of Yorkshire

Lower Stocklands Farm (P-E) Cardiff

THU 17 AUG

Onley Grounds Equestrian Centre (P-GP)+FS

Moreton EC Summer Area Festival & Music Dorset

Kings Equestrian Centre (P-GP)+FS Herefordshire

Port Royal Equestrian & Exhibition Centre (P-GP)+FS North Yorkshire

Ladyleys Equestrian (P-AM)+FS Aberdeenshire

SUN 20 AUG

Cockshot (P-GP) Cheshire

Marian Bach (I-AM) Flintshire

Holmside Hall Equestrian (I-AM)+FS Durham

Newbold Verdon Equestrian Centre (P-AM)+FS Leicestershire

Chapelton Equestrian Centre (I-M) Highland

Codham Park Equestrian (P-AM) Essex

Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre PE Cheshire

Tall Trees Arena (I-PSG)+FS Cornwall

Beaver Hall Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Staffordshire

TUE 22 AUG

Kings Sedgemoor Equestrian Centre (P-GP) Somerset

Reaseheath College (I-INTI)+FS Cheshire

WED 23 AUG

Northallerton Equestrian Centre (P-GP) North Yorkshire

Arley Moss (P-PSG)+FS Cheshire

FRI 25 - SAT 26 AUG

Kingswood Equestrian Centre (P-GP) Staffordshire

The Midway Championships at Hartpury Gloucestershire

SAT 26 AUG

Breach Barn (P-PYO FEI)+FS Kent

Amersham Dressage (music only P-E) Buckinghamshire

Beaver Hall Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Staffordshire

Bluegate Hall Farm (P-AM) Essex

Whitegate Farm (P-AM) Wrexham

Muirmill (I-AM) East Ayrshire

SAT 26 - MON 28 AUG

Sparsholt College Summer Area Festival Hampshire

SUN 27 AUG

Hill House Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Lincolnshire

Vale View Equestrian (I-GP) Leicestershire

Tushingham Equestrian Centre (P-E) Cheshire

Brook Farm Equestrian Club (P-GP)+FS Essex

Tall Trees Arena (I-AM) Cornwall

Queach Farm Stables (I-AM) Suffolk

Warwickshire

Silver Leys Equestrian (I-AM)+FS Hertfordshire

Parwood Equestrian Centre (P-PSG) Surrey

THU 17 - SUN 20 AUG

Onley Grounds Equestrian Centre Summer Area Festival & Music

FRI 18 AUG

Warwickshire

Allens Hill Competition & Livery Centre (P-AM)+PE Worcestershire

FRI 18 - SAT 19 AUG

Beechwood Equestrian Centre (P-GP)+FS+PE Essex

FRI 18 - SUN 20 AUG

Fenning Farm Summer Area Festival Cambridgeshire

SAT 19 AUG

Mendip Plains Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Somerset

Willow Banks Equestrian Centre (P-AM) Lincolnshire

Dressage at Hascombe (P-GP) East Sussex

Eland Lodge Equestrian Centre (P-M) Derbyshire

Boyton Hall EC (P-AM)+FS Suffolk

Burrows Court Farm (P-AM) Gloucestershire

Windmill Farm (P-GP) Buckinghamshire

SAT 19 - SUN 20 AUG

Myerscough College (P-GP)+FS+PE Lancashire

Crow Wood Equestrian (P-E) Lancashire

Speedgate Events (P-AM) Kent

THU 24 AUG

Dressage at Belmoredean (P-GP) West Sussex

The Grange Equestrian Centre (P-PSG)+FS Devon

Solihull Equestrian Centre (P-GP)+PE West Midlands

THU 24 - SUN 27 AUG

Port Royal Equestrian & Exhibition Centre Summer Area Festival & Music North Yorkshire

FRI 25 AUG

Prestige Equestrian LLP (P-GP) Gloucestershire

Onley Grounds Equestrian Centre (P-GP)+FS Warwickshire

MON 28 AUG

Foxes Riding School (I-AM) Cheshire

TUE 29 AUG

Felbridge Showground (P-PSG) West Sussex

WED 30 AUG

Burrows Court Farm (E-INTII) Gloucestershire

THU 31 AUG

Silver Leys Equestrian (P-AM)+FS Hertfordshire

Parwood Equestrian Centre (P-GP) Surrey

MEET Nina Boex

Being selected to represent your country is a signi cant moment in any rider’s career. For our U21 riders a constant support on their international journey is Nina Boex, Senior Chef d’Equipe for the British teams competing at FEI Dressage Youth European Championships. We caught up with Nina, who lives near Swansea, as all eyes turn towards the progression of the 2023 U21 season.

QTell us a little about your own equestrian background.

I developed my dressage riding through the BD Youth system (BYRDS), attending regional training camps and representing Wales at Youth Inter-Regional and Home International competitions. At 25 I made the transition onto the Senior Wales team and became a BD Youth Assessor. Since then, I’ve developed my freelance coaching business and am a BD Accredited Coach. I’m currently studying at Gloucester University for my Level 4 qualification.

QWhat led you to take on the role of Chef d’Equipe? Having enjoyed my time in BD Youth so much, I wanted to give back, so, I voluntarily helped out with the Wales Youth team at inter-regionals. In hindsight this was my introduction to cheffing, I just didn’t

At the time, Islay Auty was Chief Selector for U21s. She clearly saw some potential in me and enabled me to shadow the current International Chef d’Equipes at the time, from whom I learnt a vast array of tips and tricks.

QYou’ve been Senior Chef d’Equipe for U21s since 2021. Briefly describe what the job at a Europeans involves. Anything and everything! From planning the logistics of getting horses and riders to and from European venues, to liaising with officials on the showground, working with Chefs from other countries, supporting riders and their home teams, overseeing tack check, helping out grooms, making sure everyone is in the right place at the right time, getting ready

for prize-giving, knowing rule books off by heart, organising accommodation for officials, riders and horses, and all the while ensuring good team spirit. The list is endless and every championship presents its own challenges.

QFor you, what are the biggest rewards?

It’s great seeing riders aim high, gain personal bests and reach their potential at the U21 level. Over the seasons, I see team members develop both as riders and as people. I always look forward to the start of a new season, to meet new combinations and see how they progress, and am very much looking forward to 2023.

It’s rewarding to be part of a team; working closely with the Performance Manager, coaches, selectors, and the BD support team, along with my fellow chef Tom Hobday, to make rider experiences the best they can be.

QYour role as Chef d’Equipe has taken you across Europe. What are your standout memories?

I’ve been extremely fortunate to visit some of the loveliest venues. I’ve eaten my sandwiches watching the Cadre Noir practise their gala routines in Saumur. Held team meetings on the golden Spanish beaches at Oliva Nova, near Malaga. And I have a backstage pass to watch the top riders in the world warm up and compete.

QWhat five essential bits of kit do you always have with you at a show?

Firstly, my phone, this keeps me in touch with everyone and has the schedule details, and live scoring. Then my trusty GB rucksack (my Mary Poppins bag of tricks) – here I carry my essentials – black tape, safety pins, plasters, tissues, flags… and more, and yes, it does weigh a ton!

QWhich has been your favourite Europeans to date?

They’ve all been amazing but for different reasons. But Hartpury 2022 Junior & Young Riders was very special. It was great being on home soil with so much support and having the whole of the BD workforce there to cheer our riders on.

The atmosphere was incredible with riders achieving their personal bests. The Junior team brought home a Bronze Team Medal and that was a real high. In contrast, it was bittersweet for the Young Rider team who missed out on a medal by such a slim margin. I was so proud of both teams because of the way they supported each other in both outcomes, and showed such a strong team spirit.

Q Tell us a secret

At my first international show in Holland, when we were just ten minutes from the showground, I realised I had forgotten my suitcase!

But in true chef style, there was no panic, we pulled into the next supermarket and purchased anything navy, white or red as a makeshift kit! (Lesson – always wear full kit and your jodhpur boots on travel days to the showground!).

Performance

The