British Eventing BE Lite launches at Howick trials

British Eventing (BE) has announced that Howick will host the first ever BE Lite competition on June 12, marking the debut of a more accessible approach to eventing designed to welcome riders of all backgrounds, including non-members.

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."

BE Lite is part of a wider effort by British Eventing, the sport’s national governing body, to make eventing more accessible, sustainable, and welcoming.

The scheme was developed by the British Eventing Sport Task Force to increase participation and create more opportunities across the UK.

The pilot event at Howick Horse Trials will offer both BE members and non-members the chance to compete, with the benefit of a simplified entry process and less stringent dress code.

Organisers will also have greater flexibility in delivering the event, with the aim of making competitions more enjoyable and confidence-building—particularly for grassroots riders, returners to the sport, and those seeking to build experience.

Despite the relaxed approach, core standards remain unchanged.

Qualified officials will still oversee the event, and medical and veterinary cover is mandatory.

British Eventing’s established rules on safety, welfare, and conduct will also continue to apply, with eliminations enforced for rider falls or repeated refusals on the cross-country course.

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."

Howick Horse Trials organiser Hannah Matthews said she is excited to help launch the new initiative.

Ms Matthews said: "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."

BE Lite complements British Eventing’s other programmes aimed at broadening participation, such as BE Prepared and Here to Help.

Further details about the BE Lite model and upcoming host venues are expected to be announced in the coming months.

The new format is described as "less intimidating" and "more supportive" for participants, with a focus on participation, enjoyment and confidence-building rather than rankings and qualifications.

Organisers interested in running a BE Lite event are encouraged to contact British Eventing directly for more information.