International showjumper Chris Smith has called for the creation of a riders committee to improve communication within British Showjumping.
Chris Smith, an international showjumper, producer of young horses and coach, made the suggestion in comments published this week. He pointed to recent tack rule changes that generated bad feeling among riders due to limited discussion and unclear explanations. Smith noted that questions at the annual general meeting must be submitted in advance, preventing open dialogue. He said a virtual committee would be straightforward to arrange and would allow riders to work with the federation rather than against it. He also highlighted the absence of stewards at the recent Wales and West show and raised concerns over the talent seekers class at Horse of the Year Show qualifiers, which saw only six clears from 96 entries. Smith warned of a potential divide between the federation and riders if engagement does not improve.