The equestrian world is unique in both its practice as well as its values. It always requires two athletes, horse and rider, and both men and women participate or compete against each other on equal terms. The FEI, the world governing body of equestrian sports, states: "...with over 750 million equestrian fans worldwide, horse-related events provide a unique platform to engage with a predominantly female (75%), affluent, trendsetting and global fan base that consider equestrianism to be an integral part of their lifestyle. These demographics are consist across all key markets, with families in particular often flocking the gates to witness the sport in action."

• EQUESTRIAN EVENTS & SPONSORSHIPS
Although show jumping is the most popular worldwide, there are several other high-level equestrian disciplines. The best known are those included at the World Equestrian Games held every four years: in addition to show jumping, there is combined driving, dressage, endurance, eventing, paraequestrian events, reining and vaulting. Officially introduced into the Olympics in 1912, this sport has been growing ever since. It is an exciting sport, and competitions are held year-round all over the world. North America is no different as numerous horse shows are hosted every week, with key competitions and circuits being followed by the elite riders to earn money and to qualify for national and international events. Many horse shows feature thousands of riders, horses, and spectators. The value of horses there ranges from thousands of dollars all the way to several millions. Sponsorships are common, and are actually the primary financial means for many riders to perform at the highest level. Sponsorship packages are customized to match specific needs—from startup companies to international entities, to promote a brand or advertise products, etc. Horse shows are great places to network, create new business relationships, and be introduced to an affluent market.

• BENEFITS TO SPONSORS

Sponsors receive major exposure and benefits through association with successful riders, industry professionals, and presence at prestigious sports events:

• Fully tax deductible expense (based on your tax situation)

• Leverage sponsorship to include several events, riders, objectives.

• Exposure at all events where FEA is involved at any level (with riders, trainers, as a sponsor, etc.)

• Sponsors will be acknowledged on: show carts, horse names, show rugs & saddle pads, show cups/trophies, jackets, training rugs & saddle pads, shirts, hats, FEA’s official vehicles, etc.

• Press and media coverage at major events

• Hospitality opportunities at major events

• Increased profile, especially amongst the affluent equine community

• Regular visibility through FEA communications

• Acknowledgment on FEA-related websites & brochures

• Banners & logo at strategic locations at events

• Sponsor names announced throughout the day of FEA sponsored event(s)

• Sponsor’s product(s) displayed when feasible

• Logo in programs, on FEA mailings and on polo shirts worn by FEA members

• FEA may help staff sponsor’s booth at events
  Availability of FEA member(s) to attend/support sponsor’s events/functions

• Show rings, tents, exhibit area can be named for a sponsor for the duration of an event

• Long term effects (see Why Sponsoring FEA on the right)

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Request the FEA SPONSORSHIP KIT to find out more.