British Eventing

British Eventing (BE) is the Great Britain governing body for the equestrian sport of eventing,^[1] which combines a single rider and horse pairing competing in dressage, showjumping and cross country. The organisation both regulates the sport and organises nearly 200 affiliated events across the country.^[2] In Great Britain, the eventing season runs from March to October every year, weather conditions permitting. There are all sorts of different levels from BE80 (80cm) to 5* eventing. In 2019 the existing 4* events were changed to 5* events which include Badminton and Burghley.

British Eventing is responsible for Team GB selection for the Olympics and other international events. It forms part of the national umbrella body, the British Equestrian Federation.^[3] Based at Stoneleigh in Warwickshire, it has over 11,000 members.

History

Formerly known as the British Horse Trials Association (BHTA), the organisation changed its name at the start of 2001, as the term 'horse trials' was gradually being replaced across the globe. Eventing combines three phases: dressage, showjumping and cross country.

Governance

BE has a Board and Committee responsible for such areas as major events, rules, training, safety and team selection. The body also employs five regional coordinators, each responsible for the events that take place in their respective geographical areas. The current chairman is Amanda Ratcliffe. The management comprises Mike Etherington Smith, who is the Chief Executive, and Wendy McGowan the Finance Director.

References

• Alexander, Jeremy (2000). "Eventing's fatal attraction; Badminton starts today in the glare of the spotlight for all the wrong reasons." The Guardian. 4 May.
• Corbett, Sue (2003). "A Sport that is Never Less Than an Event." The Times. 14 February.