Equine Governing Bodies
The main governing body for the equine industry in the UK is the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) which is affiliated to the international governing body of equestrian sports, the Federation Equestre Internation (FEI). The aim of the organisation is to provide leadership, vision and direction of equestrianism.
The BEF acts as an umbrella organisation which represents 4.2million riders and horse riding enthusiasts. There are 18 independent member bodies. Each member works together to co-ordinate the same policy on a wide range of issues such as facilities in the industry, coaching and volunteering. Ranging from top professional riders to weekend leisure rider.
These bodies include:
- *The British Horse Society
- *Bridish Show Jumping
- *British Eventing
- *British Dressage
- *British Horse Driving Trials Association
- *British Equestrian Vaulting
- *The Pony Club
- *British Reining
- *Endurance GB
- *Association of British Riding Schools
- *Horsescotland
- *Riding for the Disabled Association
- *British Horseball Association
- *Mounted Games Association
- *UK Polocrosse Association
The following are associate Members
- *British Grooms Association
- *The Showing Council
- *British Equestrian Trade Association
All of the above members are committed to sustaining and improving performance, to develop quality coaching and opportunities for grass root talent. They also support and develop suitable horses and ponies to meet the requirements of those in equestrianism.
Without these bodies, there would be little regulation in the equine industry, which could lead to poor standards within the industry.
