From Great Britain to Hong Kong - The British Horse Society, with the help of Elise Pilkington Trust and riding schools, offers a taste of success to young riders

The BHS Equitation Competition 2003/2004 is off to a great start! Successful competitions have already been held in London, Yorkshire, Leicestershire, Buckinghamshire, West Sussex and Ireland, and future competitions are being held as far a field as Hong Kong!

The original aim of the competition was to give young riders, who do not own their own horse or pony, the opportunity to compete in a nationwide competition, but with a qualifier for this year in Hong Kong the success of the competition is rapidly growing.

Qualifiers are held at BHS Approved Riding Establishments, and there are two age groups for the competition - 13 years and under and 17 years and under. Competitors are required to complete a short dressage test, a jumping test and a short multiple choice, welfare orientated, question paper, in order to demonstrate not only their riding abilities, but also to ensure they have a basic understanding of horse care and welfare.

Rosettes and training vouchers, to be spent on riding lessons, are awarded up to sixth place, with a cup being presented to the winners. The riding instructors of the winners are also rewarded, and riders placed 1st and 2nd are invited to compete in the Final Competition, which is to take place at Warwickshire Agricultural College, Moreton Morrell, Warwickshire on 13th April 2004.

www.bhs.org.uk

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