“Riding a horse is not a gentle hobby…It is a grand passion. It seizes a person whole and once it has done so, he/she will have to accept that his life will be radically changed.”

Ralph Waldo Emerson, 1803-1882

I have not blogged before, but this year two great passions of mine have come together in an unexpected way – so here we are with my first blog.

I have been involved with Eventing for some years – actually, as an owner and sponsor of riders.

I have also been a Board member of Event Horse Owners Association (EHOA) for nearly 10 years now (presently in charge of managing partnerships)

As well as these commitments, I presently own a 7 year old horse called Nutcracker Monbeg with my wife Alex, and 5 star GBR event rider Fiona Kashel.

This year, my passion for eventing has come together with the passion for my profession –  I was also proud to become one of the three principal sponsors, through my independent financial advisory practice, Taylormade Financial Management – “TFM LLP”, alongside Weatherbys Bank, and Lycetts Insurance.

This is an exciting new opportunity for me, as I have got to know my fellow partners/sponsors well over a number of years now, and I can see how working together can promote positive outcomes for the association’s membership.

I am very much looking forward to September’s eventing calendar in particular the Defender Burghley Horse Trials.

This is a landmark event in the UK eventing season.

This 5* competition, set in the stunning grounds of Burghley House in Lincolnshire, is often regarded as the “jewel in the crown” of British eventing.

The event is famous for its challenging cross-country course and its high-profile, glamorous atmosphere, where spectators can enjoy not only the thrilling competition but also the social side of the sport.

In 2025, Burghley will be even more significant, with many riders aiming for top finishes to secure qualification for the next World Equestrian Games or the 2028 Olympics.

As well as the excitement and glamour of the events themselves, work continues behind the scenes.

In 2025, the EHOA will continue its mission to enhance the experience of horse owners, whether they are seasoned professionals or newcomers to the sport.

The role of the association has grown significantly over the years as eventing has evolved into a more competitive and commercially-driven sport. It provides owners with critical resources, networking opportunities, and a platform to express their concerns and priorities regarding the welfare of horses and the overall development of eventing in the UK.

Horse Welfare and Safety

Horse welfare remains a central concern for the EHOA.

In 2025, it is expected that the association will continue its advocacy efforts to ensure that horses are cared for in accordance with the highest standards of health, training, and safety. This includes the development of safer courses for cross-country events, the promotion of best practices in veterinary care, and educational campaigns for horse owners and riders about injury prevention and proper aftercare.

The EHOA serves as a strong voice for owners, representing their interests in matters such as prize money, competition entry fees, and changes in competition formats. In 2025, owners may expect the association to continue pushing for fairer prize distributions and to engage in discussions about the sustainability of eventing from an economic standpoint. Ensuring that owners feel valued and heard within the broader equestrian community is vital for the future of the sport.

Community and Networking

The social aspect of the EHOA is invaluable to its members. In 2025, the association will likely expand its networking events, training sessions, and social gatherings for owners. These events provide a forum for owners to connect with one another, share experiences, and access advice from experts within the field. Moreover, the EHOA often works closely with other organizations such as British Eventing (BE), offering a united front for the development of eventing in the UK.

Environmental sustainability is becoming increasingly important in all sectors, including equestrianism. The EHOA in 2025 may introduce initiatives aimed at reducing the ecological footprint of eventing. This could include promoting greener event practices, reducing waste at competitions, and encouraging sustainable farming and horse care practices.

Supporting the next generation of event horse owners is another key aspect of the EHOA’s role.

As young riders and owners rise through the ranks of eventing, the association is likely to provide more scholarships, mentoring programs, and educational resources to help them succeed in the sport. The investment in youth development ensures the longevity and success of the discipline, fostering new talent and fresh perspectives.

Sustainability and Welfare in Eventing

Horse welfare is also a top priority. With the use of technology, like advanced vet checks, monitoring systems for horses, and continuous improvements in eventing equipment, the sport is evolving to ensure the safety of both horses and riders. The 2025 season will likely witness further innovations in this area, with discussions on the welfare of horses being a key feature at events like The Horse & Hound Forum and The British Eventing Awards.

Whether you are attending as a spectator or following the action from home, the 2025 season will undoubtedly provide plenty of unforgettable moments.

So, if you are attending any of the fabulous events that are coming up, please don’t be shy if you want to talk to me about Association business, or how any of the three principal sponsors can help you.

Getting the right advice could, as the great man said, lead to radical change in your life!

Hope to see you in a field somewhere soon!

Adrian