The event is set to become the flagship destination for every rider under 21
British Eventing (BE) has unveiled the Festival of Youth, a major new championship event launching in 2026, and it is to be held in the heart of East Yorkshire. Set to become the flagship destination for every rider under 21, the festival marks a bold evolution of British Eventing’s youth pathway—bringing competition, education, community and celebration together in one inspiring summer showcase.
To be hosted annually at Bishop Burton College, from 2026 to 2031, the Festival of Youth will bring the nation’s most talented young eventers together for a week of top-level sport and unforgettable experiences on and off the field. While the competition will always be the anchor, there is equal commitment to creating a genuine sense of community, friendship, education – both equine and human – and a team spirit that runs right through the championships.
Rosie Williams, CEO of BE, said: “We listened carefully to what our young members and their families told us they wanted. The Festival of Youth isn’t just a championship – it’s an experience.
“It’s about creating a place where young riders feel part of something bigger, where they can compete, learn, connect and celebrate everything they love about our sport.” The Pony Club will play a key role within the festival’s sporting programme, strengthening the pathway between Pony Club eventing and British Eventing and the festival will now host the Pony Club Open and a friendly BE v PC 100 friendly team competition, ensuring riders at every level feel supported as they progress.
Darrell Scaife, BE’s head of youth, said: “The Festival will be a place where riders can compete at their best while also enjoying everything that makes eventing special: the friendships, the atmosphere, the learning and the sense of belonging. We’re proud to work with Bishop Burton College to create an environment that supports not just performance, but the whole young rider and their family.”
As one of the UK’s leading centres for equestrian education and performance, Bishop Burton College is uniquely positioned to host an event of this scale and significance. With world-class arenas, outstanding cross-country facilities and a thriving equine department, the venue provides a championship setting for competition alongside exceptional opportunities for learning and career inspiration.
Danny Metters, principal and CEO of Bishop Burton College, said: “Bishop Burton College is delighted to be hosting the British Eventing Festival of Youth, an event that aligns perfectly with our mission to develop and support the next generation of equestrian talent. Riders will not only compete at a national level, but also gain access to invaluable educational experiences that help shape their futures in the industry.”
Justine Baker, head of equine at Bishop Burton College, said: “This event is a true celebration of young talent in our sport. Our team is committed to delivering a world-class experience that showcases these exceptional young athletes while also highlighting the many future opportunities available to them within equine education and careers.”
The Festival of Youth will create a memorable environment not just for young riders, but also for their families and supporters. Alongside championship classes, visitors will enjoy opportunities to learn from industry professionals, explore education and career pathways, and connect with like-minded young eventers from across the UK.
Further details, including entry information and the full event schedule, will be released in due course. You can register via email for BE’s Youth Webinar, on January 21, 2026, at 6pm, when there is chance to hear everything about youth training and competition activity for the coming season, register by emailing youth@britisheventing.com