Emile Faurie Foundation, New Independent Partner for the BHS

Mon, 02/07/2011 - 10:39
British Dressage News

The Emile Faurie Foundation has become an “Independent Partner” of The British Horse Society. “I am delighted that the Emile Faurie Foundation has become an Independent Partner of the BHS," said British Grand Prix Rider Faurie.

"The Foundation’s aim of providing opportunities for disadvantaged young people to experience the joy of horses through riding and horse care aligns perfectly with the aims of the BHS. Working together we will be able to achieve more than either can alone," he added.

This form of affiliation was created to enable the Society and smaller independent equestrian organisations whose aims and objectives are complementary to affirm publicly the confidence and high regard each has for the other, whilst also enabling the independent partner to benefit from the strengths (commercial and otherwise) of the BHS. The arrangement does not affect the autonomy of the Independent Partner, over which the BHS gains no control or influence.

BHS Chairman Dr Phil Wadey said: “The Trustees are very pleased indeed that the highly respected Emile Faurie Foundation has become our latest Independent Partner. The Foundation’s aim — to show children how enjoyable and fulfilling equine sports and careers can be, and to help them follow their dreams whilst developing personal and social skills along the way — is one with which the BHS associates itself closely.”

Dr Wadey said “The BHS is fortunate in that we have resources which we can share with organisations whose aims are consistent with our own and whose capacity to make the most of their potential could be enhanced by co-operation.

“We want every equestrian organisation whose stance on equine welfare, training, safety and access is compatible with our own to succeed. If we can help them do so we will be helping to promote the wider good of all horses and equestrians.”

Turning to the general principles of the scheme, under which the absolute autonomy of the Society’s Independent Partners is not compromised, Dr Wadey acknowledged the prospect of occasional differences of view.  “Difference lends spice to life and we would never put pressure on Independent Partners to toe the BHS line. There will always be scope for debate, and even disagreement, when matters of judgement and perspective are concerned.

As always, the key questions will be: “Is the welfare of the horse protected?” “Is the method proposed safe for riders?” and “Are the end results acceptable, both ethically and in terms of the horse’s performance?”  So as the number of Independent Partners grows, so too will the likelihood of differences of view. That does not worry me in the slightest.”

Related Links
Eurodressage Photo Database: Emile Faurie
Emilie Faurie Named 2004 British Olympic Reserve Rider
Emile Faurie sponsored by Press Agency Reuters