“What a fantastic day!” was the enthusiastic response from one participant at the British Eventing Coaches Day, held today at the Unicorn Centre. With industry-leading speakers and coaches as well as first-class flatwork and jumping demonstrations, the day proved to be an engaging and interactive event enjoyed by all who attended.
The day began with vets Brad Hill and Janet Douglas’ session, ‘Educated Riders and Receptive Horses: The Art of Communication in Modern-Day Sport’. They tackled the challenges facing equestrian sports, focusing on effective horse-rider communication and the management decisions that influence performance and trainability.
Following this, Mandy Frost UKCC Level 4 Showjumping coach, MSc Professional Practice in Sports Coaching, led a thought-provoking presentation on the complexities of the coach-athlete relationship, particularly exploring whether “caring” qualities are innate or can be developed. This session encouraged coaches to reflect on the emotional and supportive aspects of their role.
In the afternoon, BHSI, BD List 1 Judge and Coach Educator Assessor Andrew Fletcher, took to the indoor arena for an interactive session that involved the audience in discussions about coaching structure, prioritisation, rider understanding, and technical knowledge. This hands-on approach allowed for practical insights into coach performance and effective relationship-building with riders.
The day concluded with an interactive session led by British Equestrian Technical Director and Eventing Performance Manager Dickie Waygood and Brad Hill, where Dickie focussed on developing the right canter for jumping while incorporating theory from earlier presentations, making it a truly comprehensive and educational event.
The Coaches Day offered a fantastic opportunity to enhance skills in communication, welfare prioritisation, and coaching strategies within the world of British Eventing.
Darrell Scaife, Head of Youth commented: “It was such an interesting day with thoughtful sessions, led by hugely experienced speakers, which offered real insight into what it is that a horse needs to thrive both at home and in the competition environment. We are committed to horse welfare and ensuring that are our sport is a happy and encouraging place for horses and riders to thrive.”
Wellington Riding’s General Manager and BE Performance coach David Sheerin FBHS said of the event: “The day was very insightful with a clear focus on how we educate riders and train receptive horses. This began in the classroom with excellent speakers and carried through to the practical sessions. A worthwhile day of interaction with leading specialists and an opportunity to network with fellow coaches in the industry. Thank you, British Eventing.”
BECC Level 4 coach Katie Williams said: “What a brilliant day! Lively, thought-provoking speakers discussing interesting and relevant topics in the morning, with world-class practical coaching sessions in the afternoon. The Home Coaches’ Day was Caroline Moore’s brainchild and I feel sure she would have been delighted with today, it certainly lived up to her very high standards. As coaches we are nearly always working alone, so it’s a great luxury to spend time together and share our experiences.”
We were delighted to have in attendance Ridely who will be sharing content from the afternoon. Don’t forget, British Eventing members can access Ridely PRO at a discounted rate via your Member area on the BE website.
Images: Hannah Cole Photography
