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Rider development

There are a number of different routes to support talented equestrian athletes to progress their careers.  

Diploma in Sporting Excellence 

The Diploma in Sporting Excellence (DISE) is designed to give young people the opportunity to work towards nationally recognised qualifications, in addition to gaining invaluable coaching, mentoring and work experience in a relevant and inspiring environment. The scheme is delivered by British Dressage, British Eventing and British Showjumping, in partnership with Hartpury College.

For more information, click here.

SportsAid 

SportsAid is a charity that financially supports young, talented athletes to help them to achieve sporting success. Within equestrian sport, SportsAid has supported both able-bodied and para riders prior to Olympic and Paralympic Games.

SportsAid awards usually vary between £500 and £1,000, and athletes spend their grant on competition entries, travel costs, training and specialist sport science support, such as veterinary, farriery, physiotherapy, and strength and conditioning. The award is based on a national governing body's recommendation of an athlete’s potential to progress through the talent pathway, and nominees are submitted by British Equestrian through consultation with Member Bodies and their representatives. Nominated athletes are asked to complete an online application form, then the information provided is used to approach partners who provide funding for awards for SportsAid

If you'd like further information about SportsAid, please contact Georgie Allen– georgie.allen@bef.co.uk / 02476 698904. 

Young Professionals Programme

The 12-month programme, which launched in 2017, aims to help young riders build a wider skill-set to support their personal and career development, enabling them to transition out of the youth development pathway and earn a living in the equestrian industry.

Find out more about the Young Professionals programme here.

Para Equestrian Entry Programme

Funded by Sport England, British Equestrian runs a training initiative for young riders looking to make their first steps towards competing in British Dressage para dressage competitions and onto the talent pathway.

Find out more about the programme here.