Bishop Burton College to stage new equine youth championship

By Rick Lyon, Co-Editor

Bishop Burton College is to host a new national youth equine championship, it has been announced.

British Eventing (BE) is launching the Festival of Youth, a major new event for riders under 21.

Held annually at the college from 2026 to 2031, the competition will bring the country’s most talented young eventers together for a week of top-level sport.

“We listened carefully to what our young members and their families told us they wanted,” said BE CEO Rosie Williams. 

“The Festival of Youth isn’t just a championship – it’s an experience. It’s about creating a place where young riders feel part of something bigger, where they can compete, learn, connect and celebrate everything they love about our sport.”

The Pony Club will play a key role within the sporting programme, strengthening the pathway between Pony Club eventing and BE.

BE head of youth Darrell Scaife said: “The festival will be a place where riders can compete at their best while also enjoying everything that makes eventing special – the friendships, the atmosphere, the learning and the sense of belonging.

“We’re proud to work with Bishop Burton College to create an environment that supports not just performance, but the whole young rider and their family.”

The classes for the competition will include:

• National Junior Championship CCIJ2*-S

• National Pony Championship CCIP2*-S

• Regional Team Championships CCIJ2*-S

• Regional Team Championships 100L

• U18 90L

• U21 CCI2*-S

• U21 100L

• British Eventing/Pony Club 100 National Friendly Team Competition

• Pony Club Open Championship

As one of the UK’s leading centres for equestrian education and performance, Bishop Burton is uniquely positioned to host an event of this scale and significance.

With a world-class arena, outstanding cross-country facilities and a thriving equine department, the venue provides a championship setting for competition alongside exceptional opportunities for learning and career inspiration.

Danny Metters, principal and chief executive, said: “Bishop Burton College is delighted to be hosting the British Eventing Festival of Youth – an event that aligns perfectly with our mission to develop and support the next generation of equestrian talent.

“Riders will not only compete at a national level, but also gain access to invaluable educational experiences that help shape their futures in the industry.”

Justine Baker, head of equine at the college, added: “This event is a true celebration of young talent in our sport.

“Our team is committed to delivering a world-class experience that showcases these exceptional young athletes while also highlighting the many future opportunities available to them within equine education and careers.”

Further details, including entry information and the full event schedule, will be released in due course.