British Eventing (BE) has revealed a new initiative designed to inspire the next generation of engineers and reduce the risk of rotational horse falls across-country.The British Eventing Engineering Innovation Prize is aimed at final year engineering and design students from selected UK universities. The students are tasked with developing cutting-edge safety systems for cross-country fences. It is hoped that these young minds will come up with fresh ideas and create innovative, practical solutionsto combat the challenges posed by rotational falls.Initial concept submissions for the project, which is led by British Eventing and funded by a grant from the British Eventing Support Trust, are due in June 2026. A mentored development phase will then follow before final presentations are required in June 2027.Fresh ideasI am excited about this innovation and grateful to the British Eventing Support Trust for their financial funding, said Rosie Williams, ceo of British Eventing.We are constantly looking at the safety of our sport with fresh eyes, and are looking forward to engaging with the best universities working in mechanical engineering, sports science, materials expertise and design. This work will take time, and we hope to see meaningful developments over the next 1218 months.While frangible technology has significantly improved safety at certain fence types, there remains limited adaptable technology for obstacles such as tables, oxers, corners and brush fences.Winning concepts may progressinto field trials and be implemented on the BE circuit. They will also receive part of the 10,000 prize fund. Funds raised during the British Eventing Support Trust Winter Ball, where supporters contributed 15,000 towards the project, will support the wider delivery of the scheme, including academic oversight, prototype testing and administration.An inspiring step forwardThe partnership between British Eventing and the BE Support Trust reflects our shared commitment to continually improving safety within our sport, said Ian Stark, chair of the board of trustees of the BE Support TrustThe new Innovation Prize is an inspiring step forward. It encourages the next generation of engineers and sports scientists to explore bold, creative solutions that could significantly reduce the risk of falls and improve safety for both horses and riders.Entrants will be challenged to create new or improved deformable or frangible fence systems that meet or exceed current BE and FEI safety standards. Designs should be compatible with standard timber fence construction, resilient in outdoor competition environments, and practical to reset efficiently between competitors. Affordability and the potential for broad adoption across the BE fixture network are also key considerations.More from Your HorseMounted police volunteers are helping to solve crimes and make the roads saferBored of round the block? Four ways to find new hacking routesCould not wearing high vis leave horse riders liable in a road accident? Solicitor answersGood for bonding and his health: grooming benefits plus 5 essential brushes for your kitThe post BE launches innovation prize to advance cross-country safety appeared first on Your Horse.