Eleanor went on to say how important she feels the Young Equestrians scheme is to young riders who often drift away from equestrian sport when priorities shift and social and educational pressures begin to rise.
“I believe a scheme that combines horses and socialising will be an invaluable tool in helping to keep teenagers involved in the equestrian industry. It offers the chance for members to experience training, competitions and activities that wouldn’t normally be obtainable to them.”
Young Equestrian Courtney, aged 17, said:
“The best bit about Young Equestrians is all of us being able to get together and work towards shared goals. I’m looking forward to seeing how our group develops over the next few months.”
Keano, aged 14, agreed:
“It’s a good opportunity for making new friends and team building. Thanks to Young Equestrians we are going to get to know each other better and take part in some fun, different activities that we wouldn’t normally get to do as a group.”
Kerry Parker-Davies, owner of KA Horses Equestrian Centre, was delighted with how well the launch evening ran and the larger than expected group who joined in. She said:
“I really enjoyed watching them work as a team. They were full of enthusiasm and I look forward to seeing the Young Equestrians grow and develop.”
Next up for the group is the Alveley Donkey Derby in August where the riders have been invited to take part. They will also have a stall where members of the public can buy cakes and enter fun competitions, with all of the money raised going towards future Young Equestrians activities. Pop along to see them at the Recreation Ground from 10am on Sunday 14 August 2016.
Originally developed by Hoof, the British Equestrian Federation’s (BEF) participation programme, the Young Equestrians scheme is being delivered through The Pony Club and will target riding schools across England. Thanks to Sport England funding, Young Equestrians will provide participants with more choice and freedom in how they take part in equestrianism, as well as providing a focus on skill development.
Riding schools who deliver the programme will be given access to virtual tools to help them establish their Young Equestrians club that include example session plans, marketing materials and a host of different ideas on how to retain teenagers in equestrian sport.
