Our objective is to unite people through healthy recreation while placing equine welfare firmly at our core. We are committed to making the sport as inclusive and accessible as possible by offering free and subsidised, top-class training for riders at every level. By fostering safe, supportive, and knowledgeable environments, we help ensure that both riding and responsible horse care are open to all.
Through our two Academies, and the Thoroughbred Aftercare Programme (TAP), we provide structured pathways for development at every stage. From nurturing emerging rider talent and supporting the correct education of young horses, to helping former racehorses transition into rewarding second careers, these programmes combine expert coaching with practical guidance to build confidence, skill, and long-term partnerships.
Beyond our direct training initiatives, we are committed to strengthening the wider sport. Our investment in the British Eventing Training Foundation supports grassroots training, education, and the development of coaches, officials, and volunteers. By helping create clear and accessible pathways into all areas of the sport, we aim to grow participation and build strong foundations for the future. Read more here.
In addition we play an active role in supporting the long-term sustainability and safety of the sport. Through our backing of the British Eventing Training Foundation, we contribute to initiatives that expand access to high-quality grassroots training and learning opportunities across the country. This includes support for educational platforms such as the British Eventing “BE Prepared” knowledge hub, which offers practical, accessible resources covering safety, horse welfare, and competition preparation. These tools are designed to support riders, coaches, officials, and volunteers alike, ensuring that everyone involved in the sport has access to reliable guidance and best practice.
We are equally committed to the development of the people behind the scenes. By investing in training and progression opportunities for coaches, officials, and volunteers, we help strengthen the infrastructure of the sport and create clear, supported routes for those looking to get involved or progress further. We also support ongoing research into safety and welfare, helping to advance evidence-based improvements that benefit both horse and rider at all levels of eventing.
Looking ahead, we remain devoted to expanding our charitable reach and deepening our impact. By continuing to invest in access, education, and opportunity, we aim to remove barriers, share knowledge, and create meaningful pathways for everyone involved. Whether you are a rider, coach, official, or volunteer, The Howden Way is dedicated to opening doors, growing participation, and building a stronger, more inclusive future for the sport.
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
