Entering your horse in KNHS competitions: here's how to do it

What do you need for your first entry?

Before you can enter your horse in a KNHS-recognised competition, a number of things need to be in order. Your horse must be registered in the KNHS database and have a valid UELN number. As a rider, you need an active KNHS membership — in 2025 the cost is around €65 per year for a standard membership. In addition, your horse must have a valid vaccination record showing a current influenza vaccination. Without these basic requirements, you simply cannot compete. Check well in advance that all documents are correct, as updating an expired vaccination or registering a new horse takes at least a few weeks.

Step-by-step entry via MijnKNHS

The entry itself is handled through the online portal MijnKNHS. Once you are logged in, navigate to the competition listings and filter by discipline, region and date. After selecting the competition, choose the class that suits you and your horse — think B, L or M dressage or a 90 cm show jumping class. You then link your horse to the entry and confirm payment. Entry fees vary by organising club but typically range from €12 to €25 per test or class. Also keep an eye on the closing date: this is usually 7 to 14 days before the competition day.

• Log in to MijnKNHS via the KNHS website
• Search for the desired competition by date, discipline or region
• Choose the correct class matching your competition licence level
• Link the correct horse and verify the horse's details
• Pay the entry fee before the closing date

Choosing the right class: levels explained

Within the KNHS, competitions are divided by level. For dressage, this runs from class Z (beginner) through B, L and M to Z and ZZ-licht towards top-level sport. In show jumping you start at 60 or 70 cm and work your way up to 80, 90, 100 cm and higher. You choose the class based on your valid competition licence. A competition licence is awarded automatically once you have earned enough points at a lower level — the exact points threshold is shown on your personal page in MijnKNHS. Not sure which level suits you? With EquiCoach in the EquiSight platform you can analyse your training data and assess whether you are ready to move up a level.

Common mistakes when entering

• Entering a class for which your competition licence is not yet valid
• Forgetting to check whether the vaccination falls within the valid period
• Entering too late after the closing date — late entries are rarely accepted
• Entering a horse without having the UELN number to hand
• Underestimating travel time: always check the exact location in advance

Tracking competition preparation with EquiSight

A competition requires more preparation than simply filling in an entry form. In your horse's profile in EquiSight you record all relevant information: vaccinations, training log, rider schedule and notes from your trainer. This means you have all the details immediately to hand when entering. Use the calendar feature to schedule the closing date, the competition day and your preparation training sessions. That way you will never miss a deadline and you can build up to the competition in a structured way.

What do you do if a competition is cancelled?

Competitions are sometimes cancelled due to weather conditions or organisational reasons. In that case you will generally receive a message via MijnKNHS and the email address linked to your account. The refund policy varies by organising club: some refund the entry fee in full, while others charge an administrative fee of around €2 to €5. Always check the competition information for the specific arrangements. Keep your payment confirmation so that in the event of a dispute you can quickly demonstrate that you registered and paid.