This and more up for debate at landmark gathering of international experts.
All those everyday questions horsey shoppers ask retailers about staying safe will be answered at the BETA Safety Conference.
From weighing up comfort versus safety when buying gear, to quick-release stirrups and protection from concussion and rotational falls, expert speakers will cover every aspect.
Tickets are still available for the first-of-its-kind conference at Loughborough University on 21 April.
“It really is a must-attend event for anyone involved with rider safety – from coaches and trainers to equipment fitters, the trade and beyond,” says Claire Williams, executive director of the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA).
Highlights of the BETA Safety Conference include:
Jade Faulkner and Dave Derby from gold sponsors Charles Owen on fitting a diverse rider population. They will be joined by a representative of Cool Ridings [a group supporting diversity in equestrianism] and Kathryn Jaquet from retailer RB Equestrian.
Physiotherapist and PhD student Daloni Lucas will share an overview of her PhD research on the analysis and prevention of spinal injuries in horse racing. She’ll explore jockeys’ use of safety equipment, and present a biomechanics study of injury and the implications for equipment design.
Laura Collett MBE gives a rider’s perspective on safety, courtesy of gold sponsor Zebra Products and uvex. The current European eventing champion and an Olympic medallist, Laura sustained multiple injuries and lost the sight in one eye in a cross-country fall in 2013.
Dr. Stephanie Bonin PhD, MEA Forensic will discuss the biomechanics of brain injuries and helmet protection including how anti-rotational systems work, and certification testing.
Dr Mark Hart, Chair, USEF (United States Equestrian Federation) Human and Equine Safety & Welfare Committee, Chair FEI Medical Committee and of the FEI Equestrian Safety Vest WG [working group] will discuss rider attitudes to safety as well as the FEI’s position and approach to rider safety now and in the future.
Sponsors and tickets
The BETA Safety Conference is sponsored by Charles Owen and Zebra Products (which distributes the uvex brand) at gold level. Racesafe is a silver sponsor.
“This sponsorship shows a dedication to supporting the trade as the support allows ticket costs to be lower for attendees,” says BETA.
Tickets cost £99+VAT for BETA members, £107+VAT for affiliate members (BHS, ABRS, SMS, RDA), and £130+VAT for non-members. An online only option is also available at £75+VAT per device/person.
CPD points for coaches and trainers
BHS Accredited Professionals can earn 6 CPD points, with the Pony Club and British Dressage also accrediting the conference. Points are also available for other organisations.
For more details and to book, visit: beta-uk.org/conferences/
