News

The British Equestrian Federation urges all members of the equestrian community to strictly adhere to the Government’s directive to stay at home unless it’s absolutely necessary to travel. 

The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) would like to thank the equestrian community for their current support during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. These are unprecedented times for society in general and we all need to play a part in helping to manage and restrict the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). 

All British Dressage members have been emailed this evening with an update on the current coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic detailing our status, plans and news of an FAQ document to help stakeholders through these uncertain times. 

The team at Bolesworth has been closely monitoring the status of the COVID-19 pandemic as events have unfolded Nationally and Internationally.  Following the Government public health guidance regarding social distancing, and the termination of non-essential travel, together with the statement that emergency services have been withdrawn from supporting mass gatherings, it is clear that events of this scale pose far too great a risk to continue for the foreseeable future.

Organisers of the Royal Windsor Horse Show, which includes Royal Windsor Endurance and The Edwardian Pageant, have today announced the cancellation of the 2020 events following the Government’s announcements around COVID-19. Royal Windsor Horse Show was due to be held from 13–17 May, Royal Windsor Endurance on 15 May and The Edwardian Pageant on the evenings of 14-16 May.  

In light of yesterday’s UK Government advice on the risks to public health presented by the coronavirus, British Dressage (BD) and British Showjumping (BS) have taken a number of decisions around sporting and training activities for the next four week period, up to and including 16 April.

In light of today’s briefing by the Prime Minister and the advice provided by medical experts on the public health risks posed by the coronavirus pandemic, British Dressage will be reviewing the immediate impact on our activities, competitions and events as an urgent priority.

This year’s BD Winter Regional Championship series reached its conclusion at Prestige Equestrian LLP in Gloucestershire (5 – 7 March 2020) where riders from across the region, and further afield, vied for final qualifying spots for the NAF Five Star Winter Championships in April.  

British Dressage would like to reassure members that we are in close contact with our colleagues at UK Sport, Sport England, the Sport and Recreation Alliance and Sports Ground Safety Authority with regards to the ongoing risks and threats posed by the coronavirus outbreak. 

The British Equestrian Federation's latest statement on coronavirus, updated on 13 March 2020.