The aim at The Howden Way is to unite people through healthy recreation while placing equine welfare at our core. We offer free and subsidised top-class training for riders of all levels, fostering safe, friendly, and informed environments so that riding, and responsible horse care, is as accessible as possible.
Through the Rider Talent Academy, Young Horse Academy, and the Thoroughbred Aftercare Programme (TAP), we nurture talent, support young horses, and help ex-racehorses find fulfilling second careers by supporting both them and their riders with access to top level training, guidance and knowledge. We also back the British Eventing Training Fund to strengthen grassroots training, development of coaches and officials alongside research into safety within the sport.
Whether you're a rider, coach, official or volunteer, The Howden Way is committed to opening doors, growing participation, and building brighter futures for the eventing and ex-racehorse communities.
The Thoroughbred Aftercare Programme’s mission is to support the successful transition of racehorses into fulfilling second careers as riding horses, whether for competition or leisure. We are committed to providing a knowledgeable, structured, and supportive environment where both horses and their new owners can grow and succeed at a comfortable, individualized pace. Through education, encouragement, and a strong network of guidance, we aim to ensure that ex-racehorses, along with their riders, thrive during retraining and throughout their lifelong partnership.
Our vision is to redefine the future for former racehorses by addressing common challenges and dispelling persistent myths surrounding life after racing. We aim to highlight the remarkable versatility, intelligence, and athleticism of thoroughbreds, showcasing their suitability for a wide range of equestrian disciplines and leisure pursuits.
By opening up opportunities and improving accessibility, we strive to make thoroughbreds a realistic and rewarding option for more riders. Our programme promotes a compassionate, structured approach to aftercare, reinforcing the belief that the entire racing industry shares a responsibility in securing a meaningful second chapter for these horses.
Through advocacy, education, and increased visibility, we are committed to raising the profile of thoroughbreds in life after racing—ensuring they are recognized not only for their achievements on the track but also for their potential across all spheres of horsemanship.
The Howden Way Talent Rider Academy is dedicated to identifying, nurturing and developing the next generation of eventing talent within the British Eventing framework. Supporting riders aged 14 to 25, the Academy provides access to world-class coaching, education, and performance support as riders transition through youth pathways into senior competition.
Our mission is to foster a high-performance culture that prioritizes both rider and equine welfare, offering young athletes the tools, knowledge, and expertise they need to reach their full potential — regardless of background.
Aims
The Howden Way Young Horse Academy exists to support and develop talented rider–horse combinations within the British Eventing framework who are not currently engaged in other performance pathways. By providing access to world-class training and education, the programme empowers riders to produce young horses through the age group levels with skill, confidence, and care.
Our mission is to identify and nurture future talent while promoting excellence in horsemanship. We aim to create opportunities for both riders and owners by giving recognition to those outside traditional programmes and encouraging the development of promising horses in the hands of equally promising riders.
Equine and rider welfare is the foundation of all activities, aligning with The Howden Way’s commitment to responsible, ethical, and long-term development in the sport of eventing.
Aims
