The Howden Way

The Howden Way runs three separate programmes, the Rider Talent Academy, the Young Horse Academy and the Thoroughbred Aftercare Programme, each providing benefits and subsidised training to recipients and beneficiaries.

Equine and rider welfare is at the forefront of the activities and everything The Howden Way represents. Its focus and objectives are to promote horse welfare through the provision of expert advice and training and to develop and advance the skills of young people with ambitions to build a career in equine sport.

The Howden Way is a not-for-profit organisation.

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Thoroughbred Aftercare Programme (TAP)

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.

Rider Talent Academy

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 28, 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

Develop Talent: Support riders across all age groups with tailored coaching and performance development to ensure long-term progression in the sport of eventing.
Improve Access to Expertise: Provide unparalleled access to leading professionals in key areas—discipline-specific coaches, strength and conditioning, nutrition, veterinary care, equine physiotherapy, and sports psychology.
Promote Welfare: Place equine and rider welfare at the heart of all activities, ensuring a sustainable, ethical approach to training and competition.
Encourage Retention: Create a supportive, inclusive environment that encourages continued participation and engagement in eventing through all stages of a rider's journey.
Foster Excellence: Cultivate an educational and performance-driven culture that empowers riders to become not only top-level athletes, but also responsible, knowledgeable ambassadors of the sport.

Young Horse Academy

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

Support Emerging Talent: Offer structured support to rider–horse combinations not currently on other national programmes, ensuring talent is not overlooked.
Advance Young Horse Production: Equip riders with the knowledge and tools to responsibly and successfully produce young horses through the age categories.
Expand Access to Expertise: Provide specialist input from leading coaches, vets, equine physiotherapists, nutritionists, sports psychologists, and strength and conditioning professionals—resources typically out of reach for many riders.
Encourage Ownership & Investment: Build visibility and credibility around riders outside established pathways, encouraging owners to place promising horses with them for development.
Promote Long-Term Welfare: Ensure that both equine and rider well-being are central to training and development practices.
Champion Inclusivity & Opportunity: Foster a supportive and aspirational environment that nurtures potential and celebrates achievement beyond traditional selection frameworks.