Howick Horse Trials is set to make British Eventing history on 12 June by becoming the first venue to host a BE Lite competition, launching a new initiative aimed at increasing participation and creating a more accessible pathway into the sport.

Developed by British Eventing’s Sport Task Force, BE Lite is a flexible affiliation model for unaffiliated events that allows both British Eventing members and non-members to compete within a framework overseen by the governing body. The initiative has been designed to encourage greater participation while maintaining the safety, welfare, safeguarding and organisational standards associated with British Eventing competitions.

The new eventing format introduces a more rider-friendly approach to competition, with simplified entry processes, greater flexibility for organisers and more relaxed dress and dressage requirements. The focus is on participation, confidence-building and enjoyment, particularly for grassroots competitors, returning riders and those looking to gain experience in eventing.

Pippa Funnell, Chair of the British Eventing Sports Task Force, said: “BE Lite is exactly the type of initiative our sport needs if we are serious about growing participation and ensuring eventing remains accessible for future generations. It removes some of the barriers that can prevent people from taking part, while retaining the standards of safety, horse welfare and good event organisation that are fundamental to our sport.

“It is about opening doors, encouraging confidence and helping more riders enjoy the unique experience that eventing offers.”

British Eventing says the initiative forms part of a wider strategy to make the sport more accessible, sustainable and welcoming while continuing to provide organisers and competitors with the support and expertise of the national governing body.

Rosie Williams, Chief Executive Officer of British Eventing, said: “BE Lite is about supporting organisers and riders, strengthening standards and creating more opportunities for people to enjoy our sport. We are delighted that Howick will be the first venue to host a BE Lite competition and are excited to see the concept in action.

“This initiative recognises that there is no single route into the sport and provides a welcoming, flexible framework that allows more people to experience eventing while benefiting from British Eventing’s expertise in safety, welfare and sport delivery.

“Importantly, while some competition rules are simplified to encourage participation, the core principles that matter most remain unchanged. Horse welfare, rider safety, safeguarding, veterinary and medical provision, and event oversight remain at the heart of every BE Lite competition.”

Howick Horse Trials organiser Hannah Matthews welcomed the opportunity to launch the new format.

“We’re thrilled to be the first venue to host a BE Lite competition and to support an initiative that helps make eventing more accessible while maintaining the high standards our sport is known for. We hope it will encourage new riders to get involved and provide a positive experience for everyone taking part.”

Although BE Lite introduces greater flexibility, key safety measures remain unchanged. Qualified officials will continue to oversee competitions, medical and veterinary cover remains mandatory, and British Eventing’s welfare, safeguarding and conduct standards will continue to apply. Riders who fall or repeatedly incur refusals on cross-country will still be eliminated in line with established eventing safety protocols.

British Eventing says further information on BE Lite and additional participating venues will be announced in the coming months.

What is BE Lite?

BE Lite is a flexible British Eventing affiliation model that:

• Is open to both members and non-members
• Makes competitions easier to enter and participate in
• Provides greater flexibility for organisers
• Offers a more supportive and less intimidating experience for riders
• Retains British Eventing’s core safety, welfare and safeguarding standards
• Focuses on participation, enjoyment and confidence-building rather than rankings and qualifications