Have you reached the point where unaffiliated competitions no longer hold the same challenge? 
Do you feel that your horse has the ability to go further, but you’re hesitant about taking on the professionals? 
Don’t be afraid – here’s how to take the plunge into the world of affiliated competitions.
Getting started  
There are many governing bodies which you can affiliate to. However, you need to make sure that you choose the right one. 
Most societies require you to also  register with a specified breed regulating body, so it is important that you study the rules and regulations carefully. 
 Advantages of affiliating 
 Provides competition classes for all abilities
 Helps improve horse and rider with national and regional training courses
 Encourages members of all standards and to enjoy fair competition
 Provides a competition structure where everyone can progress and  improve their own and their horses’ performance and ability
 Run according to rules set by governing body
 Held at centres which have been checked to make sure they meet required standards
 Classes run to a high specification following set guidelines
 Proof of winnings recorded
 Provides a comprehensive insurance cover for you and your horse
															
	Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2025 with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now