Exclusive: Participation is Our Priority says British Equestrian CEO

Andrew Finding, bronchi CEO of the British Equestrian Federation (BEF), has revealed that increasing participation numbers is a priority for the governing body.

Sport England have increased equestrian funding by 46% for the period 2013-2017 after The BEF delivered on all targets agreed between the two organisations, with the exception of participation numbers.

Speaking exclusively to iSportconnect, Finding said: “We are concentrating very hard indeed at the moment on seeking to drive and work with more people to bring them into equestrianism, from the ages of 14-25 in particular.”

The BEF chief also added that they were seeking to increase the number of disabled people able to ride. There are currently waiting lists and the BEF are working to provide greater access at clubs and riding centres to cater for these people.

The Hoof scheme aims to encourage Londoners to take up the sport and a new horse centre was opened in Brixton. The results there have delighted Finding. He said: “I’m thrilled to bits that that venue has increased the numbers of people who are able to ride in and around London from around 20 a week to 140-150 a week.”

To read the full interview click here>>

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