THE FUTURE OF EQUESTRIAN SPORT IS IN YOUR HANDS

This section is dedicated to the future generations of equestrians – not just for the athletes, but also for all those who have a passion for equestrianism and want to be a part of it in any shape or form. In 2009 the FEI embarked on its first ever Year of Youth - a yearlong celebration of youth equestrianism – which will run from August 2009 to August 2010 when the first ever Youth Olympic Games will take place in Singapore. Our goal for the Year of Youth is to ensure we hear the opinions of the competitors, grooms, fans, volunteers and support teams of all those aged 12 and 21 involved in equestrian sport in order to help us best shape and drive the sport in the future.

“Equestrian sport is fortunate to have a generation of ambitious and hard working young people emerging onto the international stage and we fully intend to find innovative ways to listen to them and celebrate their talent.”  FEI President HRH Princess Haya

Check out the FEI Year of Youth website (hyperlink to www.feiyearofyouth.org) for all the latest on the FEI Year of Youth and more!  We’ll bring you insight from the FEI blogging team, guest and celebrity bloggers, news and developments from the world of equestrianism and much more. If you love horse sports then the FEI Year of Youth Blog is an essential read for you!

We are always on the lookout for international correspondents from around the world to report on equestrian events, trends and celebrities worldwide. To get involved, simply send us your stories, blogs, photos and articles and you could become a guest blogger on our Year of Youth website, be featured in our new official magazine FEI FOCUS and be exposed to other exciting opportunities. To find out more, get in touch with Olivia.

Your ideas and opinions may influence policies and decisions, getting involved now will ensure that you have the chance to make your mark on the future!

You will also find in this section a brief introduction to some of the high profile FEI Series and Events available to young people, such as the Youth Olympic Games, FEI Children’s International Jumping Competition, SIEC FEI World Youth Series and Continental & Regional Championships with more information available in the Events section of the website. These are international events – but if you’re looking for opportunities closer to home, make sure you contact your National Federation or local riding club to find out what is happening in your area and how you can get involved.