The courageous Dane Rawlins who has made so many bold and successful moves to date said "I am going to commit to running them but I do not know how I am going to do it. I know there are a lot of good people out there who will help." There are plenty of reasons for giving this support including a serious proposition on the table for a one hour television programme on the run-up to the European Championships as well as the competitions themselves. £75,000 is needed to run these championships which will make such an impact on British dressage, highlighting the place of youth in the sport and bringing to this country the very best. Such great champions as Nicole Uphoff, Isabell Werth, Sven Rothenberger started their careers as Gold medalists in the European Young Rider Championships.

It is a massive opportunity for England to show how well we can host such a fantastic international championship and for all of our young riders to become involved in an international championship, and not just those that are on the teams. "Our kids do not realise what the international scene is about. Parents and children need to see how good the riders have to be to get medals. They will see how the top trainers work, for the greats like Klimke and Hinnemann come to help their young."

Already the Marriott and Brindle families have committed £1,000 each and Dane is looking for more like them, for several small sponsors and/or a major sponsor. He has some tentative leads but none have yet come to fruition.

"I do not believe there is anywhere in the world that could run such a championship for as little as £75,000. The reason we can do it is because of our back-up from Hickstead, from Douglas Bunn and from our many volunteers. Take our computer system that would be expensive but it was created at minimal cost by John Millis."

"The FEI have given Hickstead their vote of confidence to run such a championship and we are going to have to rely on self-help. We hope to hear from anyone out there who feels they can help - preferably financially."

There are plenty of benefits for it will be part of the Jumping Derby meeting when there are huge crowds and a great atmosphere and ambience. Sponsors will find it a great place to bring clients as they will have full access to both the dressage and the show jumping. A box can be arranged from which to watch the Derby and the medal presentation which will be in the famous Hickstead show jumping arena in the mid afternoon. This is all going to be televised.

With the British young riders having done so well at their first international show this year, there is real hope that they could do exceptionally well when on home ground. This is an opportunity which cannot be lost. We need the finance to make these championships happen and which will be a springboard for our young riders to become the best in the world.

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