In the world of Irish eventing, we often talk about the “Broad Church”—the unique community that brings together everyone from the Olympic hopeful to the weekend amateur, the dedicated volunteer to the regional organizer. Today, that community has a new, tangible way to support its own growth: the Eventing Ireland 50/50 Draw.
This initiative is more than just a fundraiser; it is a vital engine for the sport’s sustainability. By participating, you aren’t just buying a ticket for a prize—you are investing in the very soil from which our future champions and cherished local events grow.
Why the 50/50 Draw Matters
The beauty of the 50/50 model is its simplicity and direct impact. Half of the proceeds go to a lucky winner, while the other half is funneled directly back into the sport. Here is how your contribution moves through the “Broad Church” of our community:
At the Grassroots: For many, eventing is a passion that requires careful budgeting. Funds raised help ensure that grassroots competitions remain accessible, providing the infrastructure and safety standards (like frangible technology and MIM clips) that allow amateur combinations to compete with confidence.
Across the Regions: Our regional committees are the lifeblood of the sport. These funds provide much-needed capital for regional training programs, allowing high-performance coaching to be delivered locally and affordably to members in every corner of the country.
Rider Development: Transitioning from youth programs to the professional sphere is a daunting financial hurdle. This draw supports the pathways—such as bursaries and subsidised training—that help our young riders bridge that gap and represent Ireland on the world stage.
The Power of the Collective
Eventing is a sport built on the tireless work of volunteers and the unwavering spirit of its participants. In recent times, the sport has faced challenges, from rising costs to logistical hurdles. The 50/50 draw represents a moment for the entire equestrian community to pull together.
Whether you are a five-star professional or an EI80 newcomer, supporting this draw says that you believe in the future of Irish eventing. It ensures that the “Broad Church” remains open to all, fostering a culture where every rider, regardless of level, has the opportunity to progress.
”We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future.” — A guiding principle for Eventing Ireland’s development initiatives.
