IN a move to improve pony and child welfare, British Showjumping has announced that children aged 12 and under will no longer be eligible to compete at shows with paying spectators from 2029.

As a result, the big 128cm finals at shows like the Royal International Horse Show, Horse of the Year Show and London International Horse Show will move to alternative venues.

A statement from British Showjumping (BS) last week said, following concerns about the increasing demands placed on children competing in the sport, BS commissioned an independent safeguarding review by Lime Culture, a leading UK safeguarding consultancy specialising in improving the safety and wellbeing of children and adults in sport and other organisations.

BS said members from across the sport, including parents, officials, coaches and riders, were consulted and shared their experiences as part of the review. The current competition structure and its impact on the wellbeing of children participating at every level of the sport were also considered.

Pressures

The review produced 39 recommendations to promote fair participation, protect child and pony welfare, and enhance enjoyment of the sport. Other recommendations include all affiliated shows should having Safeguarding Officers, while BS has promoted a register of qualified and accredited coaches, trainers and other professionals to help members and parents select a coach or trainer.

The biggest impact will be moving the 128cm finals away from the prestigious shows. BS said the change is “intended to provide an environment that better supports the welfare and wellbeing of younger competitors, while recognising the additional pressures associated with competing at major, high-profile spectator events.”