New Lodge RDA wins £3k Community Fund

Scoring the most votes, New Lodge RDA is to receive the highest value Natwest Community Fund of £3000.


Hilary Crawford, manager of New Lodge RDA explained, “After being shortlisted by our local Chislehurst Branch, our bid for funding was left for online voters to decide”, adding, “I’d like to thank everyone that voted and particularly to the British Equestrian Federation’s HOOF-Ride London Olympic Legacy project for their encouragement.”

In informing members of the HOOF-supported London Horse Network, votes were cast and Chair of the LHN, Jodie Maile said, “It was a great way for the newly-reformed LHN to support a member”, adding, “Offers were even made from fellow member, Littleton Equestrian Centre to helping New Lodge RDA source hay at a better price than their local rate as this is what their win will be spent on!”

David Gadsby, London representative of the BEF added, “HOOF is all about bringing people into the equestrian community and encouraging them to continue their association with our sport but this can only be achieved if equestrian establishments are able to survive. The HOOF-supported LHN is helping to develop centres with fund-raising, training and marketing workshops and this award also highlights just what can be achieved by the equestrian community working together.”

New Lodge RDA provides a service for children and adults with physical and sensory special needs and learning difficulties with a team of horses, ponies and volunteers helping to provide lessons six days a week to approximately 100 regular riders.

Hilary added, “I really feel as if Christmas has come early for New Lodge RDA and we’re really looking forward to the New Year as we have two new horses on the team and are even hoping for a runner in the London Marathon.”

If you would like to volunteer or support New Lodge RDA directly contact Hilary at Hilary.crawford@virgin.net or Tel 0208 851 6447.

HOOF-Ride London supported charity wins FEI Award

HOOF – Ride London supported charity, the Ebony Horse Club, a pioneering horse riding charity in South London which brings horse riding to some of London’s most disadvantaged young people, has been awarded the Fédération Equestre Internationale(FEI), 2010 Alltech Award for Development.


A year on from the British Equestrian Federation’s Olympic Legacy project, HOOF-Ride London promising £200,000 of funds from its Sport England funding to help the Ebony Horse Club start building a bespoke riding centre in the centre of Brixton the charity’s work has become more recognised by the equestrian community.

Richard Johnson, FEI Director of Corporate Communications said, “With so many nominations from around the world, we were thrilled the Ebony Horse Club was this year’s special winners. It is a real testament to the dedication, determination and drive of this remarkable club winning this global award. The Alltech Development Award has quite rightly put a spotlight on the remarkable children and young people from this inner city project proving that sport has no boundaries.’’

Speaking at the ceremony in Taipei, Taiwan, where she received the award from FEI President, Her Royal Highness Princess Haya of Jordan, Ebony’s Director Ros Spearing said, “Over the last 14 years we have worked hard to bring the benefits of horse riding to young and troubled people in South London. Our charitable aims are to improve the life skills, education and aspirations of disadvantaged youngsters growing up in deprived communities in Brixton, South London. This award acknowledges and celebrates the power of sport to improve the lives of young people.”

Ros added, “Ebony is building a riding centre in Brixton which will allow many more local children to benefit from the Club’s activities. We are appealing for donors to come forward with the last £100,000 so that work can start on the £1.7m project in February 2011.”

Londoner's called up for last chance to volunteer for Olympics 2012

As the closing date for volunteering for the London 2012 Olympic Games looms, Londoner’s, in particular, are being encouraged to sign up before it is too late.


By signing up before 27th October 2010, ‘Games Makers’ or volunteers can still opt out or apply for paid roles but if they fail to complete the online application process now they could miss out on the opportunity of a lifetime altogether.

Jodie Maile, chairperson of the London Horse Network, supported by the British Equestrian Federation HOOF Ride London Olympic Legacy project, has made contact with the Network members to encourage them to sign up saying, “By volunteering, people from London will have a real opportunity to be a part of the Olympic Games and it will inspire them to continue to develop the legacy the Olympics will bring for equestrian sport in our capital city and beyond.”

While the application process includes sections for people to both input their experience level and the kind of roles they would like to undertake, the London Horse Network has also been asked to inform the process to ensure that the city’s equestrian community is fully represented.

Tim Hadaway, Director of Equestrian Sport for the Olympics, explains, “Equestrianism is a specialist sport and by allocating roles appropriately, we will be able to provide the riders, the horses and the volunteers with an unforgettable experience, and it'll be great to have as many local people from the London equestrian community sharing in that too.”

To volunteer or for more information please visit http://www.london2012.com/

Get off the sofa and into the saddle with new campaign from HOOF

Enter a competition to win five riding lessons at http://www.hoof-in-town.com/index-competition.php 

 

Hoof, the British Equestrian Federation’s legacy to the London 2012 Olympic Games today launches a new campaign – Hoof it to Health – to get people off the sofa and onto horse back as one of London’s healthiest outdoors sports for any age or fitness level.

The new online video for the campaign explains the benefits: http://www.hoof-in-town.com/health/video.php

“Horse riding can burn as many calories as jogging, tones and strengthens your core muscle groups, is a great way to get fit and at the same time, enjoy the psychological benefits of being outdoors in partnership with a horse,” says Lynne Munro, Chair of the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Therapeutic Riding.

“Riding is proven to help everyone but also benefits people with physical and mental challenges. Every step a horse takes, the rider must rebalance their body resulting in continual muscle, posture and balance adjustments even in walk. Once a rider is able to move up a pace, they not only continue to tone muscles in this way, the whole cardiovascular system gets working.  We have many examples of people whose fitness, strength and mental abilities have been vastly improved through horse riding.” Concludes Lynne Munro.

Andrew Finding, Chief Executive of the British Equestrian Federation says;” We are building a lasting legacy to the London 2012 Olympic Games for the equestrian industry by investing in expanding riding facilities in selected London riding centres and through this campaign, to get more people off the sofa and into horse riding as a great way to get and keep fit.”

Hoof has teamed up with the Riding for the Disabled Association www.rda.org.uk/ and Vauxhall City Farm www.vauxhallcityfarm.org to launch this campaign in the heart of London. Vauxhall City Farm runs a Riding Therapy Centre working with RDA to enable people with disabilities to ride and also offering riding to disadvantaged children in the local community. It is also a British Horse Society approved centre and a Pony Club centre.  Hoof is also a partner of Go London – the Change 4 Life campaign.

In addition to this campaign, Hoof is working to make riding in London more accessible through financial investments to help riding schools develop their facilities and offer more riding opportunities to Londoners.

For more information on Hoof, visit www.hoof-in-town.co.uk



London Horse Network puts funding as priority

The first meeting of the London Horse Network under new chairman, Jodie Maile, identified funding as the Network’s priority.


Facilitated by the British Equestrian Federation’s HOOF-Ride London project to create a legacy for equestrian sport in response to London as home to the Olympic Games 2012, the Network brought together professionals from riding schools and livery yards to instructors, charity-run city farms and RDA centres as well as representatives of funding organisations and government bodies responsible for developing sport in the city.

Jodie said, “A short discussion session to identify the key needs of the Network demonstrated a wealth of experience a valuable insight into the differing approaches of the Network members to combat similar challenges.”

With accessing funding identified as one of the priorities of the network, the meeting moved on to talks from Mary-Ann Horne of the Emilie Faurie Foundation, Kelly Smith of the Pro-Active Network and Katie Couchman of the Mayor’s Legacy, outlining funding available through the initiatives they represent.

“It is a good start”, remarked Jackie Cheeseman, manager of Mudchute Equestrian Centre, generous host for the meeting and a fine example of a well-presented, professional facility in the heart of the city.

BEF London Representative, David Gadsby, then proposed an action plan following the outcome of this first meeting and said, “Although the plan is for the Network to meet quarterly to both review progress and identify future projects, HOOF-Ride London will set up a series of workshops. Helping the Network file viable applications for funding will be a matter of priority.”

Network members were then invited to put themselves forward to lead, particularly, the funding project.

David concluded, “Organisations seeking funding need to be in it to win it. Day-to-day business pressures aside, much of the funding identified is only available for a limited time so it is imperative that the members work together and take ownership of the network project for their aims to be achieved.

“I am confident there are people within the Network with ample expertise to do just that”, he added.



Ebony Horse Club Receives Funding Boost for new Riding Centre in Brixton

Brixton, London: South London’s pioneering horse riding charity, Ebony Horse Club, has been awarded £600,000 towards the cost of building a riding centre in Brixton, South London. Ebony has transformed the lives of hundreds of local children during its 15 year history. Many of the children are from ethnic minority backgrounds making it the biggest provider of its kind in the UK.

The Club has been limited by not owning its own facilities and Sport England has invested £600,000 of National Lottery Funding in the project towards the £1.75m total cost of building the centre in Wyck Gardens in South West London.

Ros Spearing, Founder and Director of Ebony Horse Club said: "We have been providing horse riding for children in Brixton since 1996 and have been developing the riding centre for seven years. The new riding centre will enable us to reach three times as many children. The local community, Council and schools support the vital role that Ebony plays in opening up opportunities for local children especially those with special needs.

"We have now raised £1.2 million towards the new centre and we are awaiting news on a further £400,000. We are appealing for donors to come forward with the last £150,000 so that work can start on the building in February 2011. Our aim is to open by January 2012 in time for our role as an equestrian Olympic Legacy Project. Sport England has given us their support with this generous award which follows the tremendous support the British Equestrian Federation has given to Ebony. The new centre which will also provide mentoring and other sports will allow us to reach so many more children who at present are turned away."

Hannah Bladen, Sport England's Regional Lead for London, said: "The opportunity to go horse riding in state-of-the-art facilities is not something every Londoner has on their doorstep. That's why this centre will be an important addition to sports on offer in South West London. Sport England is delighted to be investing National Lottery funding to support Ebony Horse Club in getting young people taking part in, and enjoying, their sport."

Tessa Jowell MP for Brixton said: "My congratulations and admiration go to everyone at Ebony Horse Club who have argued, cajoled, persuaded and campaigned to bring an equestrian centre to Brixton.

"When you witness the fantastic way that Ebony Horse Club work with young people, the logic of bringing the riding centre to Brixton becomes crystal clear. I cannot wait to see this hard fought for centre become a reality in the months ahead."

Andrew Finding, Chief Executive of the British Equestrian Federation said: "When London was announced as the venue of the 2012 Olympic Games, BEF quickly realised its potential to encourage people of all ages to start, stay and succeed in our sport.

"Our legacy project, HOOF-Ride London, identified the unique opportunity that Ebony Horse Club represents. Through HOOF - Ride London, our moral encouragement and financial contribution, to support the opening of the Ebony’s bespoke facility in the heart of Brixton just ahead of the Olympics in 2012, will enable Ebony Horse Club to reach out to more children than ever before. This is just the start however, as Ebony Horse Club also has potential to link to many of our 16 member bodies, offering far-reaching benefits for all."

Derrick Anderson, Chief Executive Officer, Lambeth Council said: "I can think of few organisations more deserving of the sort of financial support Ebony has managed to achieve. The centre will be a real asset to the local area and provide desperately needed new opportunities for our young people."

Local parent, Karen Reid, who has three children at the Club said: "The whole family has waited so long to hear this news. Ebony has really supported my children especially my son, through some quite difficult times. The children cannot wait to be able to go to the stables after school and at weekends. It’s great that so many more children from the area will benefit and have access to this support."

Martin Clark, Head, at St John The Evangelist Primary School, Angell Town said: "Since a group of children has been working with Ebony Horse Riding Club it has had a remarkable impact on their self-esteem which has resulted in a dramatic improvement in their achievement at school."



BEF urges London equestrian centres to access funding from Mayor's Skills Legacy worth £30 million

British Equestrian Federation is urging London’s equestrian centres to access a slice of over £30 million – and offering advice as to how to do so.


As part of the Mayor of Loondon, Boris Johnson’s key election promises, the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games must deliver a genuine grass-roots sporting legacy of increased participation in sport and physical activity amongst Londoners. “In total, in excess of £30 million is to be invested in grass-roots sport by the time of the Olympic opening ceremony”, says project manager, Katie Couchman.

To understand how to access this funding the BEF has therefore secured Katie Couchman as a speaker at the next meeting of the London Horse Network, to be held at Mudchute Equestrian Centre, Isle of Dogs, on 28th September.

BEF representative for London, David Gadsby explains; “This is a staggering figure to be put towards accessing subsidized training, and we’ll have to fight many other sports to secure it but I’m confident the London Horse Network can work collectively to put forward something that will benefit the individual and the industry as a whole.”

Established as part of the BEF HOOF-Ride London Olympic Legacy, the London Horse Network aims to combine the expertise of riding centres and instructors to individual horse owners and riders and to connect them to external agencies, to develop the sport, improve standards and secure funding for the region.

Under the new leadership of Jodie Maile, the London Horse Network will also hear from Kelly Smith, Pro Active London Equestrian Relationship Manager at the meeting. Jodie explains, “Kelly will address the audience on how to link into Country Sports Partnerships, with a particular emphasis on creating links with schools so that equestrian centres can not only make the mid-week, daytime more profitable but also to create a lasting legacy, introducing scores of new volunteers into our sport and could inspire others into equestrian careers.”

A few spaces remain and will be allocated on a first come, first served basis with those interested invited to contact Jodie Maile.

David concludes, “This meeting will be a great opportunity for the London Horse Network and I hope it will not only encourage equestrian enthusiasts in London to get in touch and join the Network but also inspire other professionals with equestrian links to offer their advice and services to the Network so that the Legacy of the London Olympic Games is seen for decades to come.”

If you would like to join the London Horse Network, or offer your expertise to the Network, contact Jodie Maile at jodievm@aol.com or Tel 07815 670035.

For more information on HOOF-Ride London visit http://www.hoof-in-town.com/

Hoof strives to 'out' sofa dwellers with new campaign

Hoof, the British Equestrian Federation's legacy to the London 2012 Olympic Games today launches a new campaign - Hoof it to Health - to get people off the sofa and onto horse back as one of London's healthiest outdoors sports for any age or fitness level.

The new online video for the campaign explains the benefits.

"Horse riding can burn as many calories as jogging, tones and strengthens your core muscle groups, is a great way to get fit and at the same time, enjoy the psychological benefits of being outdoors in partnership with a horse," says Lynne Munro, Chair of the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Therapeutic Riding.

"Riding is proven to help everyone but also benefits people with physical and mental challenges. Every step a horse takes, the rider must rebalance their body resulting in continual muscle, posture and balance adjustments even in walk. Once a rider is able to move up a pace, they not only continue to tone muscles in this way, the whole cardiovascular system gets working. We have many examples of people whose fitness, strength and mental abilities have been vastly improved through horse riding." Concludes Lynne Munro.

Andrew Finding, Chief Executive of the British Equestrian Federation says;" We are building a lasting legacy to the London 2012 Olympic Games for the equestrian industry by investing in expanding riding facilities in selected London riding centres and through this campaign, to get more people off the sofa and into horse riding as a great way to get and keep fit."

Hoof has teamed up with the Riding for the Disabled Association and Vauxhall City Farm to launch this campaign in the heart of London. Vauxhall City Farm runs a Riding Therapy Centre working with RDA to enable people with disabilities to ride and also offering riding to disadvantaged children in the local community. It is also a British Horse Society approved centre and a Pony Club centre. Hoof is also a partner of Go London - the Change 4 Life campaign.

In addition to this campaign, Hoof is working to make riding in London more accessible through financial investments to help riding schools develop their facilities and offer more riding opportunities to Londoners.
For more information on Hoof, visit www.hoof-in-town.co.uk

Ends


Editor's notes:
RDA is proud to be celebrating 40 years of delivering opportunities for therapy, achievement and enjoyment to people with disabilities. Founded as a National organisation in 1969, RDA now has 500 Member Groups across the UK - together, these Groups help 23,000 people to take part in riding, carriage driving and vaulting activities.

Although RDA was set up to work mainly with people with physical disabilities, RDA Groups now work across the spectrum of disabilities, age range, social status and urban and rural environments. The focus of our work is to ensure that each individual has the chance to derive a direct therapeutic benefit and the opportunity to achieve their personal goal (whether that be learning a very simple skill or winning a major competition).

Hoof
Hoof is led by the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) and supported by the major equestrian bodies in the UK. It aims to increase participation in, and awareness of, equestrian activities and horse sports across London, as a Legacy of the London 2012 Olympics.

Media enquiries and online video and photography:
For more information contact: Caroline Corfield-Rose 07979 706 553 or Denise Pritchard: 07802 582842. Website address: www.hoof-in-town.co.uk

Greenwich Park ground preparation work begins for 2012

Work will begin this week at Greenwich Park to prepare it to be the Olympic Equestrian venue. The work will be carried out by sub-contractors working on behalf of the London 2012 Olympic Organising Committee (LOCOG) in association with The Royal Parks.


The works have been approved by the local planning authority, Greenwich Council, who granted planning permission in March 2010 for both the test event in 2011 and events in 2012, subject to a number of planning conditions. LOCOG is now discharging a number of these planning conditions which have been agreed with the four statutory consultees - The Royal Parks, English Heritage, Natural England, and Sport England.

The route of the Cross Country course will be marked out in August to clearly identify the course for ground preparation work. The work itself will improve the condition of the grass in the Park for the route of the Cross Country course which involves reducing the hardness of the ground, and ensuring the grass is sufficiently watered. Temporary artificial grass tuft markers will be used which will remain in place until the course is visible when they will be carefully removed. These markers are used in many sports grounds to mark out playing fields.

The works will include:

• Irrigation – Water will be applied to the course from time to time to help the grass to grow and to develop stronger root systems. Because of the dry summer, this will happen daily for the first few weeks;

• De-compaction – Over many years of use the ground in the Park has become closely packed together. Works will reduce this compaction, which in turn will improve the quality of the grass by allowing roots to develop and strengthen;

• Mowing – Specialist mowers will encourage a thicker, stronger sward of grass;

• Other works will include the filling of minor and localised hollows in the ground using topsoil and turf, the removal of stones from certain areas of the Cross Country course, fertilisation of the ground and some re-seeding of areas where grass cover is poor.

Enhancement works to increase areas of acid grassland elsewhere in the Park will also commence, as part of the LOCOG-funded restoration programme. This will result in an increase in the quality of acid grassland, once re-instatement works are complete.

Much of the work is similar to that which is carried out by The Royal Parks and their contractors on a regular basis in Greenwich Park throughout the year such as mowing, slitting of the ground to aerate the soil, and selected watering.

Ground improvement work will begin in August 2010 and continue throughout 2011 and up to the Games in July 2012. The regularity will vary depending on weather and ground conditions. Some works funded by LOCOG will continue beyond the Games to ensure the Park is returned to its previous condition as part of LOCOG’s commitment to re-instate the Park.

Children's courses offered by Ridgway Stables

Ridgway Stables will be offering children’s courses in conjunction with Merton Council.


The courses run throughout the summer holidays Tues –Fri 10am until noon or 2pm -4pm and offer riding tuition and basic stable management. There are open to children from any borough from the ages of 8 to 16.

For more information please visit www.merton.gov.uk/activeplus or http://www.ridgwaystables.co.uk/

Duchess visits BEF-backed Ebony Horse Club in Brixton

The Duchess of Cornwall speaking to representatives from the BEF

HRH The Duchess of Cornwall met with the members of the equestrian community in Brixton, London, yesterday (21st July 2010) at an Open Day of the Ebony Horse Club charity of which she is President.

Her visit included a tour of the area in Wyck Gardens that, once approximately £500,000 is raised, is destined to become stabling, a riding school, and a classroom for members of the Club, right in the centre of one of the most challenging places to live in London.

The British Equestrian Federation, of which the Duchess is a patron, has already committed some £200,000 of finance secured through Sport England, to the £1.7million project.

Andrew Finding of the BEF gave an impromptu, impassioned speech as to just why the BEF were so keen to endorse and support this project as part of its HOOF Ride London, Olympic Legacy Project.

He said, “The Club is proven to change lives and has the capacity, through this proposed riding school, to reach many more children.  By being involved at this level, our sport will hit into the heart of London and, in light of the London 2012 Olympic Games, make a lasting difference.”

“I urge all in our sport to join us and pledge their support to the Club”, he added, with the Club grateful of donations, great and small.

Saroj Chakravarty, a patron of many Royal charities and his wife Mandirar, were so inspired they made a donation to the Club on the day - Saroj having retired from international business to support principally, The Prince’s Trust, leading to HRH The Prince of Wales, naming international polo match, The Chakravarty Cup, in his honour.

Equestrian enthusiasts in attendance included Rosemary Barlow, who has been nominated for the BHS Queen’s Award for Equestrianism this year for her fundraising activities via the Horse Trials Support Group and for her part in building relationships and greater understanding throughout the whole equine community.

The premise of using horses to teach five key social skills; punctuality, regular attendance, commitment to improvement, team work and exam preparation, in order to achieve beyond their expectations, struck a chord and she was joined by fellow event horse owner, Ann Walkinshaw, daughter-in-law of Nick Walkinshaw,  the owner of Billy Shannon, ridden by Pippa Funnell.

Sir David Steel and his wife, Charlotte, were also among those present – Charlotte having been known to drive the minibus that currently takes the members across London to their riding lessons, and during the open day she demonstrated how to put on a tail bandage on the Club’s plastic horse.

And, Lady Heseltine, being introduced to the Club for the first time, spoke of how she felt inspired to offer the Club a chance to visit and ride from her farm in Exmoor.

Such an opportunity would be a world away from the stables, surrounded as it will be, by high-rise residential buildings that are home to many of the Ebony Horse Club’s members – children from the age of 12-19 – who are readily exposed to poverty, poor educational achievement, social exclusion and crime.

In the days running up to the Open Day, five children were involved in a shooting incident, and the families of the members and those involved in the local community spoke of how the Club has turned the lives of many children otherwise branded, ‘too difficult’, around.

It was also noted that, although to the country equestrian community, the costs involved in building and running such a Club may seem high, it would inspire the area to be regenerated, prevent crime and was cheaper, per capita, than holding a child in a youth detention centre while also offering them much needed opportunities and a way out, with many former Club members going on to University and even careers in the equine industry.

Donations can be made online at www.ebonyhorseclub.org.uk – or send cheque to Ebony Horse Club, The Loughborough Community Centre, 105 Angell Rd, London, SW9 7PD.

To find out more about the BEF London Olympic Legacy, HOOF-Ride London visit www.hoof-in-town.com

Love Riding

June 26th is the next “Love Riding” event at Ham House Stables, with Minette Rice-Edwards, her skilled team of riders, experienced Alexander Technique teachers and beautiful horses. So, if you missed the first session, be sure to book in early for this next one; via email Minette on minette.re@googlemail.com or see her website: www. art-of-riding.com

The Olympics in Greenwich

Click the link below to watch the LOCOG video about Greenwich Park:
Greenwich Park (March 2010) video

London Bar Honours Local Stables

Old meets new as one of the oldest equestrian establishments, Wimbledon Village Stables is to be honoured at the new Hemingways Lounge Bar, set to open on the high street of Wimbledon Village on 4th May 2010.

With the independently-owned bar aiming to put ‘the Village back into the Village’, proprietor, Kelly McAteer, who also rode at the Stables as a child, has chosen to name the four ‘booths’ within the bar after the yard dog, Filly, and three resident horses, Silver Dollar, Inky, and Chester with a private area being appropriately named, The Paddock.

The Stables’ director, Carol Andrews, says, “It’s a lovely gesture. The Stables was first established in 1919 and is very much at the heart of the community and we enjoy the camaraderie between businesses in the Village.”

Commenting on the honour, David Gadsby, London representative of the British Equestrian Federation says, “In line with our HOOF Ride London project to promote riding in London, this demonstrates just how inclusive equestrian centres are in the city and how important they can be in building a community.”

Situated close to Wimbledon Common the stable nonetheless must negotiate a short stretch of main road but businesses in the area stepped in to support traffic lights and warning signals for the Stables, while the Stables takes part in the Christmas Fair and runs a summer show on the Common that brings the community together and attracts others to the area.

Film stars, pop stars and Blue Peter presenters have undergone instruction at the Stables while Strictly Come Dancing’s Lilia Kopylova is the latest new rider to benefit from regular training on offer at this BHS and ABRS-approved equestrian centre.

Carol adds, “We are a community within a community with lots of members who ride regularly and strong links in the Village and with various charities.”

Indeed through its sponsored rides and fundraising activities the Wimbledon Village Stables has raised over £500,000 for worthy causes since Carol took on the Stables some 30years ago.

For more information visit www.wvstables.com and www.hemingwaysbar.co.uk with all riding centres in London being listed under www.hoof-in-town.com

£10k award inspires London Riding School

Deen City Farm Riding School has wasted no time in spending a £10,000 award it received from the Gannett Foundation and Wimbledon Gardens.

Manager, Joanna Henbrey BHSII SM, says, “The £10,000 went towards fencing and buying a new horse, Alfie, for the Riding School but more than that it’s given me hope.”

With the charity offering pony rides from £1, RDA lessons, work experience for volunteers to excellent instruction from BHS-qualified staff for a fraction of the expected price, the Riding Stables is understandably extremely popular.

Joanna continues, “We have nearly 200 people waiting to join our lessons but we are limited by the riding space we have and the number of horses.”

Now proposing to double the stable numbers to 24 and add a second arena with grandstand seating area, Joanna hopes to be able to meet the growing demand and offer a better experience for farm visitors and riders alike.

She says, “At the moment farm visitors tend to hang over the rails of the arena to watch which isn’t safe and for our riders competing in in-house competitions having a second arena will make it more realistic as they will be able to warm up before showing or jumping.”

That said, a high proportion of riders at the stables have gone on to pursue careers in the industry with one set to be on placement at Hickstead this summer.

David Gadsby, London representative of the British Equestrian Federation said, “Deen City Farm Riding School matches the HOOF Ride London aim to increase the accessibility of riding to all in the city and the BEF is supportive of its bid to achieve such aims.”

Joanna adds, “Having received the £10,000 grant I’m enthused and the expansion of the riding school will help to make the whole farm more sustainable.”

To contact Deen City Farm and find out how you can help visit www.deencityfarm.co.uk or email stables1@deencityfarm.co.uk For further riding opportunities in London visit http://www.hoof-in-town.com/

Joanna is pictured with Alfie - bought with the grant money already received.

The Duchess of Cornwall hosts lunch for HOOF-supported charity

The Duchess of Cornwall chose to show her support for an equestrian charity as her first appointment since breaking her leg.

As president of the charity, Ebony Horse Club and a patron of the BEF, who are also supporting the charity through the HOOF Ride London project, Her Royal Highness declared, "I could not be more thrilled that these two very special organisations are working so closely together."

The lunch was attended by various supporters of the Club including Clare Balding, Dane Rawlins, Emile Faurie, Jemma Kidd, riders, trainers and breeders.

In giving focus, discipline and a chance to succeed to some of the most disadvantaged youngsters from Brixton, the Club has offered riding and horsemastership to more than 300 children and, when the vital final funds are received to build a £1.7million centre right in Brixton itself, so scores more will be able to join.

BEF London Representative David Gadsby said, "I really hope the lunch went some way to making people aware of the high level of support the charity has and also just how urgently it needs funding - anything anyone can contribute will make a difference."

Duchess of Cornwall chooses Hoof supported Charity

The Duchess of Cornwall chose a British Equestrian Federation-supported charity as her first appointment since breaking her leg just two weeks ago.

Hosting a lunch at Clarence House on Wednesday 21 April for supporters of the Ebony Horse Club, of which she is President, Her Royal Highness apologised for her diminished stature and joked, “I’m afraid your patron hasn’t got a leg to stand on.”

The Duchess, a patron of the BEF continued, “I could not be more thrilled that these two very special organisations are working so closely together – to help Ebony realise its dream of building a riding centre in south London – and that this remarkable project will form part of the equestrian community’s London 2012 Olympic Legacy.”

The Club provides riding and stable management lessons to help improve the life skills, education and attainment of some of the most disadvantaged children and young people growing up in Brixton by providing access to riding and mentoring.

Through the HOOF Ride London project, the BEF has pledged some £200,000 towards the Club and in addition helped in the arrangements for the reception at Clarence House that included current supporters and potential new donors from business, media and equestrian sectors as Ebony Horse Club bids to raise £1.7million to build a stables and educational facility in the heart of Brixton.

Chairman of the BEF, Keith Taylor, read out a message of support from the President of the FEI, Princess Haya of Jordan, and as his conclusion quoted Toni Robinson, saying, "Horses change lives. They give our young associates confidence and self-esteem. They provide peace and tranquility to troubled souls -- they give us hope."  

With a plethora of support from entrepreneurs to charitable foundations equestrian support for a charity of this kind is relatively recent.

Clare Balding, Jemma Kidd, Dane Rawlins, Emile Faurie, representatives from the Warwickshire Hunt and horse breeders were among those present, who were unanimously passionate about the work of the Club.

Using horses to teach five key social skills; punctuality, regular attendance, commitment to improvement, team work and exam preparation so many of the over 300 children to have grown up with Ebony have gone on to achieve beyond their expectations.

“Ebony gave me my reference for my first job”, explained Mussei Kidane who is now a volunteer youth worker for the Club while studying Marketing, Advertising and Business Law at University, adding, “Even my brother who was kicked out of a few schools doesn’t get in to trouble now as Ebony has really helped him and Ros Spearing (the founder and director of Ebony) would go to his school meetings.”

Photographs are available via the Press Association – Getty Images.

To find out more about the BEF London Olympic Legacy, HOOF-Ride London visit www.hoof-in-town.com

Donations can be made online at www.ebonyhorseclub.org.uk – or send cheque to Ebony Horse Club, The Loughborough Community Centre, 105 Angell Rd, London, SW9 7PD.

HOOF supported Ebony Horse Club to be featured on TV

Watch BBC Breakfast and the News Channel this Sunday and you'll be able to see Ebony Horse Club in action. 

Ebony Horse Club is to receive £200,000 from HOOF Ride London, the Olympic Legacy project from the British Equestrian Federation, to go towards a bespoke riding centre in the middle of Brixton, helping the under 18year olds from this run down inner city area to learn to ride and look after horses. 

Many of the pupils from this inspirational club have gone on to equestrian careers but perhaps more importantly than this, Ebony has given them a focus and a safe haven from an otherwise challenging environment in which to grow up.

If you miss it, fear not, the feature will also be online after 4pm on Saturday!

Three x nine = nearly £1800 raised for Haiti by three nine year old horse riders

Anticipating to raise £1000 for the children of Haiti, twin sisters, Ella and Bethan King, along with best friend Molly Beard - and pony Cracker - raised nearly £1800.

Ella says, "We raised money for Haiti with your support by riding our sweet pony 'Cracker' who is the dear age of 16 yrs around Weston village dressed up in fancy dress!"
The Hertfordshire riders, all members of the Puckeridge Hunt Western Pony Club added, "Thank you again soooo much for sponsoring this cause."

Greenwich Park approved for London 2012 Equestrian Events

Greenwich Council's Planning Committee approved the temporary use of Greenwich Park for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Equestrian and Modern Pentathlon events at a public meeting on 23rd March.

The application, which was agreed by the Mayor of London, was presented at Woolwich Town Hall. The democratic process was completed in an open and transparent manner with all parties able to express their views before the Board members, all Councillors working in open forum made their individual comments and then voted.

Once the Olympic and Paralympic Games are over the site will be restored to its former use and condition. An Advisory Group, to include the Council, Royal Parks, English Heritage, Natural England, London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) and seconded Members when necessary, will be established to formally oversee the implementation programme and the restoration and enhancement of Greenwich Park.

Cllr Chris Roberts, Leader of Greenwich Council, said: "This decision means we can concentrate on working with LOCOG, Royal Parks and other key stakeholders to deliver a spectacular event in 2012.

"The planning application was subject to extensive consultation and generated a large number of responses. All this feedback has been carefully considered, and a number of planning conditions have been applied to address the issues that were raised.

"We will work closely with LOCOG to ensure these conditions are met and that we safeguard the Park and surrounding area to preserve its unique and special character."

Andrew Finding, Chief Executive of the BEF said: "We have always been 100% supportive of Greenwich as the venue for the equestrian events at the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

"The granting of planning permission at last night’s meeting is very welcome news and we now look forward to seeing the plans develop into a reality. We are very grateful to the residents of Greenwich for the loan of their beautiful park and are confident that LOCOG have every plan in place to protect it, we are also confident that it will be one of the best venues that has ever been seen at an Olympic or Paralympic Games.

"Greenwich Council has been hugely supportive and positive about the plans and we look forward to continuing to work with them on providing a lasting legacy that includes both the equestrian community of Greenwich and beyond."

Hoof Teams up with Go London

Hoof has teamed up with Go London, the London branch of the Change 4 Life initiative that is working to get people in London to eat well, move more and live longer.

We are partnering Go London because Hoof's aim is very similar - to get more people off the sofa and away from their desks and to try riding in London. Horse riding is not only a great way to get away from the pressures and stress of everyday life, it's also a very good way to get fit, whatever your age and whatever your fitness level. Trot, canter or jump and you get a serious cardio workout - amble through London's parks and you get fit without any of the strain of a normal sport - but either way you're off the sofa and into sport!

 So come on - Hoof it off the sofa - Go London!

Learn to "Love Riding" with Local Celebrity Teacher Minette Rice-Edwards

How has your 2010 started? Did you keep those New Year promises about getting fitter and having a more balanced lifestyle? Have you been in good spirits or sluggish? Are your resolutions intact, or in tatters? If you fancy an easy approach to taking some action then an introduction to horse riding could be a solution for you.

HOOF Ride London goes under the lens

HOOF Ride London under the lens

Quizzed on camera, two of the brains behind HOOF Ride London explained the BEF London Olympic Legacy project and how you can use it to start, stay or succeed in horse-riding, in the city.



BEF Marketing Manager, Anna Greenway teamed up with BEF London Representative, David Gadsby as they were put on the spot and under the camera lens by Jo Metcalfe of www.horsemart.co.uk, the UK's leading site for horses for sale and fast becoming an online community of horse enthusiasts across the world with video postings, facebook and twitter feeds.



You'll soon be able to watch Anna and David in action from the Horsemart website and you can join as fans of HOOF Ride London on our own facebook and twitter pages.

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000463749587

http://twitter.com/hoofridelondon

Equine and Human Anti doping Education Programme Launched

The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) World Class Programme, in conjunction with British Dressage, British Eventing and British Showjumping, will be hosting a number of regional education days throughout March and April for riders and owners to find out more about the new FEI Equine Anti Doping and Medication Control rules. The new rules will be introduced on 5^th April 2010.

 

The days, which are free of charge to attend and open to British riders in all FEI disciplines who compete or intend to compete in FEI competition, will help riders understand what has changed and why. The days will assist riders in making sense of the new Equine Prohibited List, the new rules surrounding stewarding and security at events and medication log books.  Equine anti doping and medication control is a hot topic throughout the world and it is vital that all riders fully understand the rules and the implications of falling foul of them, which could result in a 2 year ban from the sport. The days are also open to owners of horses who compete or who are intending to compete in FEI competition.

 

Human drug testing will be increased in the lead up to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, so the education days will also cover human anti doping issues with input from UK Anti Doping (UKAD) and BEF Chief Medical Officer, Dr Peter Whitehead.  The rules affect all riders at all affiliated levels and with some “everyday” substances appearing on the Human Prohibited List, it is important that riders are familiar with what can and cannot be used.  Details about how to go about applying for Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) or making a Declaration of Use (DoU) for riders that require a prohibited substance due to a medical condition will form an important part of the human anti doping session.

 

The dates and venues for the six days are:

 

Monday 22 March 2010, 0930 – 1630hrs

Blackwell Grange Hotel, Blackwell Grange, Darlington, Yorkshire, DL3 8QH

           

Tuesday 23 March 2010, 0930 - 1630hrs   

Ingliston Country Club and Equestrian Centre, Old Greenock Road, Bishopton, Glasgow, Scotland, PA7 5PA

 

Monday 12 April 2010, 0930 – 1630hrs      

The Pitsford Centre, Moulton College, Moulton, Northamptonshire, NN3 7RR

 

Monday 26 April 2010, 0930 – 1630hrs      

Aintree International Equestrian Centre, Ormskirk Road, Aintree, Liverpool, L9 5AS

 

Tuesday 27 April 2010, 0930 – 1630hrs     

Barnett Hill – A Sundial Group Venue, Wonersh, Guilford, Surrey, GU5 0RF

 

Wednesday 28 April 2010, 1230 – 1930hrs

Hartpury College, Hartpury, Gloucestershire, GL19 3BE

 

This list of dates is also available on the BEF website – www.bef.co.uk

 

 

Places will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. To book a place, send an email entitled “Anti Doping Education” to Sophie Thomas (sophie.thomas@bef.co.uk) including your name, postal address, contact telephone number and the discipline in which you compete.  Emails must be received no later than 5 days prior to the day that you wish to attend.  Places will be confirmed by return email.

 

ENDS

Media enquiries:

Anna Greenway, Head of Communications and Marketing, British Equestrian Federation onanna.greenway@bef.co.uk or 02476 698877.

Polo & the Olympic Games - Facebook

Back the bid to bring Polo to the Olympic games by becoming a fan of their facebook page

Follow this link to become a fan (you'll have to be a facebook member first of course!)

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Polo-Back-to-the-Olympic-Games/169933976647?ref=ts

Help make polo an Olympic sport

Even if you are not a Polo Player, help make this an Olympic Sport because it's unique in that men and women and children can compete on an equal basis, and is in fact one of the few true team sports.

There is a petition in place to support making Polo an Olympic sport for the 2012 Olympics. The deadline to sign is December 29 2007. Please visit the address below to sign the petition:

http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/olympicpolo/

Love Riding Events at Ham House Stables

This is a year of anniversaries for Ham House. The 400th anniversary of part of the original building and the 30th of Ham House Stables.
Ham House Stables is celebrating by holding a series of "Love Riding" events to celebrate. 

The aim of the "Love Riding" sessions is to introduce people to riding in a controlled and attractive environment.
 If you love the idea of riding, then give it a whirl!  Join local celebrity riding teacher, Minette Rice-Edwards, at her beautiful  Jacobean stables for a series of “Love Riding” sessions, beginning on Saturday April 10th, 2010.  The sessions will include:
A tour of the unique 17th Century stables, with their late Georgian interior plus an introduction to the 14 resident horses, with an explanation of their daily routines;
On-the-ground instructions about the basics of handling horses;
One to one preliminary lesson on an experienced horse – “getting to know the riding essentials”;
Full personal diagnosis of the rider’s position, and likely strengths for further development
Refreshments provided in Minette’s walled garden
Special offer price for Minette’s new DVD, “Understanding the Art of Riding”.
 No previous experience is necessary and the “Love Riding” groups will be limited to a maximum of six to eight people to ensure one on one attention.
The lessons will take approximately two and a half hours and costs just £40.00.They will start at 2.30pm at Ham House Stables
If you are interested please call Minette on: 07711 422 307 or email her at:minette.re@googlemail.com or see her website: art-of-riding.com

HOOF supports Ebony Horse Club championships

HOOF Ride London went along to support the Ebony Horse Club championships - witnessing Shanice Reid score a hat-trick of wins (above). 

The Ebony Horse Club, currently trains 46 children from a deprived area of Brixton in horsemastership, each having access to 4 riding or stable management lessons per school term. 

BEF Representative for London, David Gadsby, says, "Starting as young as 8, the children must achieve certain standards to stay on the programme and it is this element that has led to Ebony Horse Club members achieving in many areas - some going on to careers in equestrianism or heading to University."

In fact the BEF is so impressed with the Ebony Horse Club, the 'HOOF' Ride London has pledged £200,000 to help the Club raise the £1.7million needed to have its own venue in the centre of Brixton.

Twelve seniors took part in this year's championships and were assessed with a written stable management paper, on their turnout, practical stable management skills including putting on a bridle and saddle, and riding - with some gaining extra marks for jumping, newly introduced into their lessons.

David adds, "I was pleasantly surprised by the maturity, discipline and high standards demonstrated by all the members and Shanice was a modest winner, her dedication enabling her to deservedly take the title for the third year running."

Equestrian Centre in Greenwich could go ahead

Inspired by the 2012Olympics where Britain is expected to bring home medals in all equestrian disciplines - dressage, show jumping, eventing and paradressage, a brand new equestrian centre at Woodlands Farm, Shooters Hill is being proposed.  Currently subject to a feasibility study, early indications are that this brand new facility - aimed at introducing all Londoners to the excitement of horseriding and training them to competition standards - is expected to go ahead.  Kick On!

HOOF headlines Ebony Horse Club Newsletter

That Ebony Horse Club has received a pledge of £200,000 from the BEF Olympic Legacy 'HOOF' project has made the front page of the Club's newsletter.  The Club still needs to raise a further £600,000 to reach its £1.7million budget to build an equestrian centre in the heart of Brixton.  If you can join HOOF in supporting the club, contact Ebony Horse Club 0207 738 3478 - every penny helps!

BEF Appeals for Support

The British Equestrian Federation has uncovered an unexpected twist in its London Olympic Legacy ‘HOOF-Ride London’ projects.

While some have been inspired to help their London equestrian facilities, on thanking an equestrian donor to one of its major projects, the Ebony Horse Club, as featured in the ‘Horses Help Children’ article (Horse & Hound, 21 January), the BEF discovered that the donation was, in fact, reduced.

David Gadsby, London representative for the BEF, explains, “The donor felt that, with the BEF pledging £200,000 towards the Club’s proposed £1.7million facility in the centre of Brixton, the support of a few hundred pounds was no longer needed but this could not be further from the truth.”

Costing upwards of £100,000 a year to run, the Ebony Horse Club uses horsemastership to improve the life skills, education and attainment of some of the most disadvantaged children growing up in Brixton, South East London.

Director, Ros Spearing says, “While we are working hard to try to attract large scale sums for the building of our own stable, we do still need support in terms of product and finance to run”, continuing, “It is exhausting constantly having a hand to mouth existence and we currently only have enough money to keep the children riding till July.”

The Club’s success has led to many of the children at risk of dropping out of education reaching University, taking up careers in horses including joining the British Racing School or even gaining work at the Club as youth workers or administrators.

And David adds, “It is the intention of the HOOF to improve access to and the quality of equestrianism throughout London and while we are proud to have contributed a fraction towards the Club’s proposed stables, we wish to encourage other equestrian groups and individuals to follow our lead as per their own financial constraints.”

In terms of financing the Ebony Horse Club, the following is given as a guide;

£20 – a beginners riding lesson for a child
£40 – a riding lesson for a teenager in the top group
£50 – a return minibus journey to take the children to ride
£60 – two private lessons for a child at risk and who needs extra support
£75 – cost for a youth worker for 4 hours
£120 – one group lesson for 7 children
£300- cost to take a group to ride – hire of minibus, youth worker and riding lesson
£500 – a day at the stables including riding and practical lessons for 15 children
£1000 – cost to send a group of EHC children to ride in the Brecon Beacons for a day

Donate online at www.ebonyhorseclub.org.uk – or send cheque to Ebony Horse Club, The Loughborough Community Centre, 105 Angell Rd, London, SW9 7PD.

Show jumper Sam puts faith in new horse

Show jumper Sam Hutton from Southampton is looking forward to the start of the new season after the arrival of his new horse, Astral.

Sam (20), a successful show jumper, is on the British Equestrian Federation’s UK Sport funded World Class Development Programme - which works with talented riders to maximize their potential and deliver success.

Astral was chosen to help strengthen Sam’s chances of success in the future and brings Sam’s number of horses to three.  The eight-year-old bay gelding, by Argentus was acquired by former Olympic show jumper, Tony Newbery on behalf of a new owner, and is stabled at his international training centre in Hampshire where Sam is based. He joins Sam’s existing top rides Olympia III and Valentino VII, both owned by Sharifa Al-Homaizi.

“I’ve only had Astral for four months and I’m really looking forward to producing him this year through to Grand Prix level,” said Sam. “He is a very brave, scopey and careful horse and I am really pleased with his progress in the short time I have been riding him. He was placed in both the World Class Development Under 23 and PCA (Premier Centre Association) Rising Stars qualifiers for this year’s British Open where I am hoping to compete him. My main focus, however, will be the European Championships and I will be taking him to the under 21 trials later this year. I have high hopes for him.”

The World Class Programme incorporates the three Olympic sports of dressage, eventing, show jumping and the Paralympic sport of para-equestrian dressage. It comprises the Performance and Development programmes plus the Equine Pathway.

The aim of the Programme is to have in place a sustainable system that can deliver more medals on the international stage now and in the future. The Programme has been funded by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, through Exchequer and National Lottery funds, via UK Sport since 1998.

Check out the exciting new items on the Team GBR fundraising auction site

Calling all dressage and eventing fans!  A once in a lifetime opportunity to spend five days at  Brookhouse Stud in Erbach, Germany with Emma Hindle is just one of the fantastic lots up for grabs on an online auction to help raise funds to send the British Team to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in 2010.

Emma Hindle is one of Britain’s top Dressage riders and was a member of the silver medal winning British Team at the 2009 European Dressage Championships. The fantastic lot, which is for two people, includes accommodation at the Stud, flights and transfers.  The winner and their guest will be able to gain an all round insight into the Stud from their foals to Grand Prix horses, observe training sessions and learn about the breeding programme.

Also on offer to dressage fans is the chance to train with one of Britain’s brightest dressage stars – Laura Bechtolsheimer. Team silver and Individual bronze medallist at the 2009 European Championships, Laura has been breaking records already in 2010 and is offering the opportunity to give the lucky winner of this lot a lesson on their own horse at her yard in Gloucestershire.

Eventing fans need not miss out, there is an opportunity to bid on a package to enjoy the complete Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials (30 April - 3 May) experience in style.   The lot, which has been kindly donated by the Horse Trials Support Group (HTSG) includes a seasonal (four day) car pass and seasonal entrance passes for two people, together with two guest badges to the HTSG Marquee for the Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday (inclusive of lunch).

Paralympic ace Lee Pearson is also offering a lesson. Nine times Paralympic gold medalist Lee is also successful at able-bodied dressage and is looking for a keen winner to put through their paces on their own horse at his Staffordshire base.

Visit The Auction Site for more information and full terms and conditions for all the lots.

The World Equestrian Games, held in Kentucky will include the Olympic disciplines of dressage, eventing, show jumping and para-equestrian dressage along with the non-olympic disciplines of driving, endurance, reining and vaulting – for the British team this means taking nearly 50 horses in total.

The Olympic and Paralympic teams are supported by lottery funding via UK Sport, but the non-Olympic sports do not receive funding of any kind. £500,000 is needed to support those teams and fund their trip to Kentucky next year.

“This is the first time the games have ever been held outside Europe,” comments Will Connell, Equestrian Performance Director.  “To send a full team and remain one of the top equestrian nations in the world, we need your help. All proceeds of this auction will go towards sending the team to the Games and supporting our talented riders in their quest to compete and win on the World stage. Without your help we will not be able to send a full team.”

The auction site has been launched with the support of the John Lewis Partnership who joined forces with the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) as part of the British Olympic Association FTSE 100 partnership scheme.

To follow all the news from across the British Equestrian Teams, including further fundraising activity and regular news updates, join Team GBR Ontrack today HERE - membership is completely free and includes a range of benefits.

*All prizes (excluding Badminton) are to be taken on mutually agreed dates, full terms and conditions for all lots are available on the website.

Great new lots on fundraising auction

Calling all dressage and eventing fans!  A once in a lifetime opportunity to spend five days at  Brookhouse Stud in Erbach, Germany with Emma Hindle is just one of the fantastic lots up for grabs on an online auction to help raise funds to send the British Team to the World Equestrian Games in 2010.

 

Emma Hindle is one of Britain’s top Dressage riders and was a member of the silver medal winning British Team at the 2009 European Dressage Championships. The fantastic lot, which is for two people, includes accommodation at the Stud, flights and transfers.  The winner and their guest will be able to gain an all round insight into the Stud from their foals to Grand Prix horses, observe training sessions and learn about the breeding programme. 

 

Also on offer to dressage fans is the chance to train with one of Britain’s brightest dressage stars – Laura Bechtolsheimer. Team silver and Individual bronze medallist at the 2009 European Championships, Laura has been breaking records already in 2010 and is offering the opportunity to give the lucky winner of this lot a lesson on their own horse at her yard in Gloucestershire.

 

Eventing fans need not miss out, there is an opportunity to bid on a package to enjoy the complete Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials (30 April - 3 May) experience in style.   The lot, which has been kindly donated by the Horse Trials Support Group (HTSG) includes a seasonal (four day) car pass and seasonal entrance passes for two people, together with two guest badges to the HTSG Marquee for the Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday (inclusive of lunch).

 

Paralympic ace Lee Pearson is also offering a lesson. Nine times Paralympic gold medalist Lee is also successful at able-bodied dressage and is looking for a keen winner to put through their paces on their own horse at his Staffordshire base.

 

Visit http://auction.equestrianteamgbr.co.uk/ for more information and full terms and conditions for all the lots.

 

The World Equestrian Games, held in Kentucky will include the Olympic disciplines of dressage, eventing, show jumping and para-equestrian dressage along with the non-olympic disciplines of driving, endurance, reining and vaulting – for the British team this means taking nearly 50 horses in total.

 

The Olympic and Paralympic teams are supported by lottery funding via UK Sport, but the non-Olympic sports do not receive funding of any kind. £500,000 is needed to support those teams and fund their trip to Kentucky next year.

 

“This is the first time the games have ever been held outside Europe,” comments Will Connell, Equestrian Performance Director.  “To send a full team and remain one of the top equestrian nations in the world, we need your help. All proceeds of this auction will go towards sending the team to the Games and supporting our talented riders in their quest to compete and win on the World stage. Without your help we will not be able to send a full team.”

 

The auction site has been launched with the support of the John Lewis Partnership who joined forces with the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) as part of the British Olympic Association FTSE 100 partnership scheme.

 

To follow all the news from across the British Equestrian Teams, including further fundraising activity and regular news updates, join Team GBR Ontrack today at www.equestrianteamgbr.co.uk/ontrack.php - membership is completely free and includes a range of benefits.

 

*All prizes (excluding Badminton) are to be taken on mutually agreed dates, full terms and conditions for all lots are available on the website.

Team GBR Online Auction - February Update

The Team GBR Online auction has been set up to raise funds to send the British Equestrian Team to the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games 2010.  All funds will go directly to the teams to support their trip to Kentucky, USA where the Games will take place.

A World Equestrian Games includes the eight disciplines of dressage, eventing, show jumping, para-equestrian dressage, driving, endurance, reining and vaulting – the British team need your help  to get to Kentucky in October.

We’ve recently added some really exciting new lots - have you checked them out yet?

Once in a lifetime opportunity to spend five days in the Life of Brookhouse Stud with Emma Hindle

Emma Hindle is one of Britain’s top Dressage riders and was a member of the silver medal winning British Team at the 2009 European Dressage Championships. The fantastic lot, which is for two people, includes accommodation at the Stud, flights and transfers.  The winner and their guest will be able to gain an all round insight into the Stud from their foals to Grand Prix horses, observe training sessions and learn about the breeding programme. 

Seasonal (4 day) entrance, car parking and hospitality passes for two to the 2010 Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials

The Horse Trials Support Group has very generously donated this fabulous prize comprising of a seasonal (4 day) car pass and seasonal entrance passes for two people to the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials which takes place from Friday 30th April through to Monday 3rd May 2010.   In addition, this prize includes two guest badges to the Horse Trials Support Group Hospitality Marquee for the Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday inclusive of lunch for two each day. 

A dressage lesson with Laura Bechtolsheimer

A fantastic opportunity to have a Dressage lesson on your own horse with Laura Bechtolsheimer, the 2009 European Team Silver and Individual Bronze medallist.

A dressage lesson with Lee Pearson

Be fit and ready to cope with Lee's enthusiasm to get the best out of you and your horse.  A great opportunity to have a dressage lesson with Britain's most successful Para- Equestrian Dressage rider.

Rug washing and reproofing service - ENDING SOON

A week’s holiday for a family at Fakenham Racecouse

Two tickets to England v Australia at Lords - ENDING SOON

Please forward this email to anyone you think might be interested. Thank you for your ongoing support — keep bidding and good luck!

Best Wishes

The Team GBR Auction Team