The World Class Performance Programme is based on a "no compromise approach" and has the sole aim of winning medals on the World stage. It exists to provide Britain's elite riders with the best preparation to represent Equestrian Team GBR at World, European, Olympic and Paralympic level in the four Olympic / Paralympic disciplines of Eventing, Dressage, Show Jumping and Para-Equestrian Dressage.
The Programme aims to make the best better through the provision of a range of services and support.
The Programme also seeks to work closely with owners to in order to ensure that they are fully involved with the process of trying to win medals. The programme delivers:
- Performance director/managers advice and support
- Programme administration
- Coaches and coach development
- Technical support (performance analysis)
- Sports science and medicine consultants, including physiotherapy & sports psychology
- Squad training
- Rider allowance for training and competition
- Key competition support (vets/coaches in attendance at key competitions)
- Research & development
- Veterinary support
- Farriery support
- Medical support for riders
- Performance enhancing equipment
- Team clothing
- Championship costs & logistics management
A Performance Manager manages the Programme for each discipline. It is based around the principle of providing a professional management team, veterinary support and education, coaching and competition management. Squad sessions are used to develop a team atmosphere and deliver coaching support. However, coaching and veterinary monitoring is also delivered at competitions and at the rider's home yard in partnership with the "home team".
Performance riders also receive a means tested allowance direct from UK Sport and they can claim, through the Programme, support for coaching, travel, entry fees and veterinary fees.
If it is felt that a certain aspect will provide a performance advantage at a competition the programme will ensure that it is in place. This includes a central logistical and management back-up that has the financial freedom to visit Championship venues before the competitions start and to ensure that a robust logistical plan is put in place for the British teams. The Championship teams are fully funded by the Programme.
Selection for the Performance programme is based on results combined with potential to contribute to team success at major championships. Performance is continuously assessed and riders are regularly reviewed. The squad is selected following discussions between the Discipline Selectors, Performance Managers and the Performance Director. Riders are reviewed on a six monthly basis, when targets, support provided and funding available are agreed.
Who's in the World Class Performance squad?
For information about the current squad, visit the Team GBR website here
