KBIS and Grass Roots Riders

KBIS set up its first scholarship scheme in 2005 following event rider Tracey Garside. The scheme was set up as a method for KBIS to put something back into equestrian sports, open to riders in all disciplines the past couple of years has seen young show jumper Daniel Moseley and young eventer Imogen Peck benefit from the scheme.

 

It is often difficult for young and amateur riders to gain important funding from sponsorship and so KBIS hopes that the financial backing for 12 months from the scholarship scheme will provide such riders with the confidence and means to fund further training and attend additional competitions to help them to rise up the competition ladder.  It is also hoped that it will act as a stepping stone to put the rider in a better position to gain sponsorship deals in the future. KBIS also provide the scholar with KBIS promotional wear in the form of saddle cloths, rugs and jackets.

 

At the end of 2009 KBIS launch a competition through Rider magazine for one lucky person to become the recipient of a £1000 training bursary. The winner was RC member Sarah Stevens from Buckinghamshire, you can read more about Sarah here.

 

KBIS have also become involved with local Pony Club South Berkshire and will be offering one lucky Pony Club member a £250 training bursary over the next four years. The first recepient of the bursary was Annaliese Turnbell, who progress can be followed here.

 

In addition to KBIS’ own scholar and training bursary schemes, whenever possible, KBIS support grass roots riders through financial backing. At present KBIS is helping Para Rider Alex McNamara achieve his goal of making it to the 2012 Paralympics. Alex is part of the World Class Development Programme, which is a great achievement in itself to get onto, especially since Alex has only been concentrating on Para Dressage for 6 years. We will be watching Alex’s progress and wish him all the best with his future ambition.