Starting Affiliated Equestrian Competitions: Essential 2025 Guide

Equestrian competitions can be either affiliated or unaffiliated, with affiliated events governed by official discipline-specific organisations ensuring fair, standardised competition. The three primary disciplines for affiliated competitions in the UK are:

1. British Dressage (BD)
2. British Showjumping (BS) – formerly British Showjumping Association (BSJA)
3. British Eventing (BE) – formerly British Horse Trials Association (BHTA)

While unaffiliated competitions often follow discipline-specific rules, they do not provide the same framework for official rankings or progression. Over recent years, the gap between unaffiliated and affiliated competition standards has narrowed, with many riders transitioning into affiliated events to actively pursue championships and formal recognition.

Becoming affiliated involves joining the relevant association and paying membership fees for both rider and horse. This can feel daunting initially but the governing bodies offer day tickets to try out competitions without full membership, allowing newcomers to get a feel for the format.

Each discipline offers support networks including area representatives who can guide competitors through membership, registration, and competition preparation. Experienced competitors will find familiar formats across both affiliated and unaffiliated levels, though eventing may require extra adaptation due to its multi-phase nature.

Understanding Affiliated vs. Unaffiliated Competitions in 2025

Affiliated competitions are regulated by official bodies offering standardised rules, official scoring, and the chance to qualify for championships. Membership and horse registration are mandatory. Conversely, unaffiliated competitions often follow similar rules but lack governance and opportunities for formal progression.

For riders aiming to compete seriously and build an official competitive record, affiliated competitions are the recommended path. These events also emphasise safety, consistent judging standards, and integrity.

How to Start in British Dressage Affiliated Events

1. Join British Dressage (BD): Register as a rider and your horse with BD. Membership offers voting rights, insurance, and entry to recognised competitions.
2. Understand the rules: Read BD's official rulebook carefully, which outlines allowed equipment, rider attire, and test requirements.
3. Entry process: Entries are usually online with clear deadlines. Familiarise yourself with entry fees and refund policies.
4. Try day tickets: If unsure, buy a day ticket to participate in an event without full membership. Points earned won’t count in official rankings.
5. Prepare your horse and yourself: Learn tests thoroughly as callers are not permitted during dressage tests, and ensure tack complies with BD rules.

Getting into British Showjumping Affiliated Competitions

1. Join British Showjumping (BS): Membership involves rider and horse registration. BS offers comprehensive competition rules and safety guidelines.
2. Understand membership options: BS provides various membership types, including full senior and junior memberships, plus day tickets for newcomers to experience competitions.
3. Register your horse: This validates your horse’s eligibility and allows official record keeping.
4. Competition preparation: Learn BS rules on tack, rider turnout, and course specifics. Check for required safety equipment.
5. Enter events online: Most entries are digital, with deadlines and possible ballot systems for oversubscribed events. Your area BS representative can assist.

British Eventing: Starting Affiliated Competition

• Entries are generally online, with some venues offering paper options.
• Events sometimes become oversubscribed; understand balloting and ticket types by liaising with your area representative or BE office.
• Start fees are payable on event days, preferably cash, when collecting numbers and declaring.
• At your first event in a season, your safety hat will be checked and tagged according to current standards. Body protectors are also compulsory for cross country phase.
• A medical armband is mandatory for all riders.
• Tack stewards check that your tack complies with discipline-specific rules during warm-ups.
• During the dressage phase, callers and schooling whips in the arena are prohibited.
• Competition times are published about one week before events, though some flexibility exists on jumping and cross country phases.
• BE coaches provide support and advice in warm-ups, particularly at training levels where guidance is encouraged.
• Results and scores are displayed publicly, often near the Secretary’s tent.

Tips for a Smooth Start in Affiliated Competitions

1. Visit events to observe: Attending competitions as a spectator or volunteer can provide valuable insight into the atmosphere, procedures, and requirements.
2. Read rulebooks: Thoroughly understand the rules specific to your discipline and stay updated on annual changes.
3. Build relationships: Engage with your area's representatives and coaching network for advice and support.
4. Combine social and competitive aspects: Membership offers social opportunities alongside training and competition, enhancing your equestrian experience.
5. Prepare for safety compliance: Ensure all equipment meets current safety standards to avoid last-minute complications.

Frequently Asked Question: What are the key differences between affiliated and unaffiliated equestrian competitions?

Quick Answer: Affiliated competitions are governed by official bodies with standardised rules, membership requirements, and offer progression to championships, while unaffiliated events are less formal, often follow similar rules but lack official governance and ranking.

Detailed Explanation: Affiliated competitions provide a structured environment where rules adhere to strict guidelines to ensure fairness and safety. Participation requires membership, horse registration, and adherence to standards in tack, turnout, and conduct. Points earned contribute to official records used to qualify for higher-level events like championships. Unaffiliated competitions, although sometimes run under affiliated rules, are generally more relaxed and allow easier access without the formal processes. They are ideal for riders gaining experience or competing socially but do not offer recognised progression pathways.

Frequently Asked Question: How can I enter my first affiliated equestrian competition?

Quick Answer: Join the relevant association for your discipline, register your horse, learn the rules, and enter events online or via day tickets if available.

Detailed Explanation: Start by selecting your discipline (dressage, showjumping, eventing). Register as a rider and register your horse with the governing body. Familiarise yourself with the specific rules and competition formats. Many organisations allow day tickets for first-timers to experience a competition without full membership. Entries are usually made online, with deadlines and possible ballot systems. Contact your area representative or event organisers for help if needed. Preparation with your horse and understanding of competition etiquette and safety is essential for a smooth debut.