BEF launches new Hoof legacy website

The British Equestrian Federation [BEF] is delighted to announce the launch of its new Hoof online portal, designed to provide a ‘one-stop shop’ for visitors to find out how, where and why they should pick up the reins and become involved in riding – www.hoofride.co.uk

Whether it’s to seek out the best place to hop aboard for the first time, discover where to watch the country’s top riders in action, or learn more about the many equestrian disciplines and their member bodies – the Hoof portal will provide answers, advice and inspiration.

The interactive nature of the resource allows users to select their own horse riding path – be it a beginner finding out where to go or what to wear – or a seasoned competitor looking for advice on horse passports, funding opportunities and apprenticeship schemes. The Hoof portal houses a library of information that can assist riders of all abilities to locate – in just a few clicks – equestrian retailers, bridlepath information, volunteering opportunities and much more!

As well as signposting visitors to specific information, the Hoof portal also features a unique ‘where to ride’ element, which maps and lists riding centres and equestrian facilities throughout the UK. Users can search the database for centres which provide general riding instruction or more specific training in thirteen different equestrian sports/offerings from dressage or showjumping to driving and polocrosse. The aim is to ensure horse riding is made as accessible as possible to entice more people off the sofa and into the saddle.

Maggie Still, BEF Head of Regional Development said: “The depth and quality of information contained within the Hoof portal makes this a valuable resource not only for individuals but for the industry as a whole. I want to thank Sport England for its support with such an exciting project, which is set to become a lasting London 2012 Hoof Legacy.”

Andrew Finding, Chief Executive of the BEF added: “I am delighted to be able to announce the launch of the new online portal which provided a backbone for the BEF’s Hoof Legacy project. This year’s Olympic and Paralympic Games present us with an amazing opportunity to inspire more people to become involved in riding and it is important that these people can access the information they need as quickly and easily as possible. The new portal will allow them to do just this.”