A group of horse lovers at a Northamptonshire riding centre are benefiting from Young Equestrians; a social and training programme which aims to give the opportunity for young people aged 13-18 to connect and re-engage with equestrian sport through a fun and informal hub.

The eighteen teenagers at Red Piece Equestrian Stables kicked off their Young Equestrians group with fun Mounted Games and Show Jumping competitions.

The riders plan to give Polocrosse a try at their next fortnightly session, and have already made plans for the future which include a gymkhana, archery and a mud-filled obstacle course.

Lydia, who took part in the event, commented:

“Young Equestrians is a great new experience. It’s amazing to have the opportunity to try new activities; especially when you don’t own a horse so would never be able to try these things by yourself.”

The group are now devising a way to raise money through a ticketed fundraising evening where locals will be invited to have a go on a mechanical rodeo bull, listen to a band and buy food and drink.

Sophie McKinnon-Wood, Red Piece Equestrian Stables’ Chief Instructor commented:

“Young Equestrians is one of the best things to happen to equestrian leisure in years; a fun-filled, adrenaline-pumped way to keep teenagers in our sport – absolutely fantastic! It was a real pleasure to see the team work, skills and enthusiasm of our members all come together to make an absolutely awesome evening!”

Participants can log their sessions at www.youngequestrians.club, where they can record their activities and achievements as well as access training materials offered by The Pony Club.

Originally developed by Hoof, the British Equestrian Federation’s (BEF) participation programme, the Young Equestrians scheme is being delivered through The Pony Club and will target riding schools across England. Thanks to Sport England funding, Young Equestrians will provide participants with more choice and freedom in how they take part in equestrianism, as well as providing a focus on skill development.

Riding schools who deliver the Young Equestrians programme will be given access to virtual tools to help them establish their club that include example session plans, marketing materials and a host of different ideas on how to retain teenagers in equestrian sport.

If you are a riding school or young person and want more information on how to get involved in the programme please visit www.youngequestrians.club.