EF unveils London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games legacy plan

Hoof to encourage many more people to take up riding and get involved with horses in the Capital

The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) is one of the first sporting bodies to present its plans for a lasting legacy from the  London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games with the launch of Hoof in London today.

The BEF is one of the first Olympic Sports to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the  2012 Games.

Earlier this year the Federation's Legacy for London Advisory Group, led by Barbara Cassani, former Chair of London's bid to host the 2012 Games, and BEF consultant Tim Hadaway, set out key recommendations for how the 2012 Games might be used to increase facilities and opportunities for equestrian sports across London.

“Today’s launch of Hoof at Olympia brings together two important strands of the equestrian legacy: celebrating the best riders of the world in the middle of London and encouraging more Londoners to climb on board and ride,” commented Barbara Cassani, leader of the BEF’s Legacy for London Advisory Group.

Tim Hadaway, who is heading up the initiative added: “Hoof will enable us to create a lasting legacy from the 2012 Games, and is aimed at anyone interested in horses and riding in London. Although many people already ride in London, Hoof will encourage others to try riding, making it more accessible and affordable to a wide range of people and raising awareness of horse sports in general.”

Hoof will support and promote existing and new riding schools, aid the local riding community and disabled riding groups, and establish a schools programme for children in the capital.

Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone has offered his full support to the project and said: "Initiatives like Hoof are exactly why we wanted to bring the Olympic Games to London.”

He added: "Many Londoners are enthusiastic about riding - but getting in the saddle is a real challenge. Hoof is all about making it easier for Londoners to climb on board."

The BEF plans to create a nationwide legacy by promoting and rolling out the ideas and initiatives set out for London to other parts of the UK.

ENDS

Editor’s note:

Hoof

Hoof is led by the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) and supported by all the major equestrian bodies in the UK. It aims to increase participation in, and awareness of equestrian activities and horse sports across London, as a Legacy of the London 2012 Olympics.

Download further information on Hoof here

Media enquiries:

For more information contact: Tim Hadaway: 07712 133302 or

Denise Pritchard: 07802 582842.  Website address: www.hoof-in-town.com