Following the formation of the National Rules Review Group in August this year, the first meeting was held on Monday 14th October. The primary objective of the Rules Review Group is to review, discuss, and recommend to the Sport Committee and through to the BE Board updates and changes to the rules for 2025 and beyond adhering to the timelines set out by BE, the FEI and other governing bodies. These rules should align with the established principles of simplicity, clarity, safety improvement, engagement, equity, expense management, welfare, and consistency.
From the outset of the inaugural meeting, it was evident that the membership were eager to tackle the challenge of making our rules and regulations simpler, clearer and ensure they promote participation, all the while maintaining the traditions and ensuring safe, clean and fair sport.
Attending the meeting were stake holders Nuala Dunne, Lisa Phillip, Victoria Linfield, Eli Lovell, Fiona Saxby, Emma Thomas, Debbie Pritchard and Clare Boardman who each contributed valuable perspectives. The group brought together a wealth of experience from across the sport, including riders, coaches and officials. Others who fed in and will join the next meetings are Harry Meade, Kate Redfern, Anna Soroko and Clare Taylor.
Several important topics were discussed including saddlery, dress and behaviour standards, education, MERs, qualification vs preparation, implementation and discipline as well as the style and layout of the actual rulebook and typos.
It was agreed that over the coming months meetings will comprise of focused topics with the aspiration that any significant changes will be made for the 2026 season.
Rosie Williams CEO said: “It was a good meeting and great to see such a motivated group bring their strengths to help. Updating the rules will take time, especially as we need to have other experts look at any changes with their own expertise. Most importantly, we need to ensure that any changes improve safety and accessibility, are enforceable on the ground and promote participation. So, the aspiration for any significant change to come for the 2026 season is right, however, if there are early wins, we will take them.”
A separate group is being convened to look at the FEI rules over the coming weeks.
The next meeting of the National Rules Review Group will be held in November. If you wish to add a topic for discussion at the next meeting, please email to feedback@britisheventing.com before the date of the next meeting.
To read the full Terms of Reference: British Evening Rules Review Group, please click here Terms of Reference Rule Review Group
