BETA backs Bramham International Horse Trials in Olympic year

The British Equestrian Trade Association is to mark the Olympic year in truly Yorkshire style by sponsoring the CIC 3* at its local show, the Equi-Trek Bramham International Horse Trial, which takes place from Thursday 9 to Sunday 12 June.

It will be the fourth year of sponsorship by BETA, which is based down the road in Wetherby, West Yorkshire, and another wonderful opportunity to promote rider safety and highlight the work of the trade association and its members on home turf.

“We are extremely excited to be back at Bramham, particularly in the run-up to Rio,” said BETA executive director Claire Williams. “The event always attracts a really clued-up crowd of riders – of all ages and abilities – who are keen to find out more about our latest initiatives and to seek advice. As horse owners ourselves, we have a lot in common and it is good to enjoy chatting to people about the things that really matter to them.”

The BETA team will be out in force throughout the event, offering free safety checks for riding hats and body protectors. Everyone who takes part will receive a discount voucher giving them 10 per cent off the price of a new garment bought from a participating BETA member retailer.

BETA will also be supporting the Pony Club Team Show Jumping for a second year, with rugs presented to the winners and prizes to third place. All riders competing in this and the British Equestrian Trade Association CIC 3* will receive a special BETA stable plaque.

A luxury prize draw with about £1,500 worth of equestrian goodies for horse and rider will take pride of place on the BETA stand and highly prized BETA goody bags and doggy bandanas will be handed out to visitors on each of the days.

Following hot on the heels of its inaugural social media competition last year, the BETA Snap or Selfie Competition will make a welcome return, with visitors invited to post their photos – which must include the BETA logo – on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using #betabramhamselfie.

As part of its commitment to the equestrian trade, BETA will host its Tradestand Holders Breakfast, where retailers and their staff can tuck into bacon rolls while hearing the winners of the BETA Best Stand Awards announced. Winning stands are selected by the trade association and a representative from the Bramham organising team.