Applications will soon close for the British Equestrian Federation’s England Excel Talent Programme. The Programme has been developed to extend the rider talent pathway below the UK Sport funded World Class Programme, to identify and nurture up and coming riders who demonstrate the potential to go on and win medals in the future. Since its launch in 2011, the Excel Talent Programme has supported 17 riders to progress to the World Class Podium Potential Programme with many more riders also going on to represent Great Britain on Junior and Young Riders teams as well as competing at International level.
Young riders with ambitions to reach the top as a showjumping, dressage, para-equestrian dressage or event rider should complete and submit their applications before the closing date of August 31.
The Excel Talent Programme, which has been set up via funding from Sport England, offers a high level of support and guidance for up and coming riders on a tailored pathway to support them in their quest for future sporting success. The Programme provides riders with the opportunity to access top equestrian specialists including coaches, physiotherapists, vets and nutritionists via a series of high quality rider performance camps.
World Class Eventing Performance Manager, Yogi Breisner commented; “The Excel Programme is very important as a first step to introduce young, talented riders to be part of a system and get the advice from coaches and human and equine personnel, in order to lay down a foundation - not just in the riding but also in horse care and horsemanship that will enable them to, in the future produce horses that will make them able to compete at a senior level.”
Applications close on August 31 and riders should be between 16 and 24 years old on first application. Details can be found at www.bef.co.uk and on the British Dressage, British Eventing and British Showjumping websites. Applications are being accepted via post and electronically via email.