Meet the Veteran Horse of the Year Show Finalists

Qualified Northern Ireland Festival May 2026

Kjerstin and Littlebyrom Limited Edition, affectionately known as Kye, have already shared two trips to Horse of the Year Show, but this year was extra special as they secured the very first Veteran HOYS ticket for the VHS class.

Kye has been a pony of a lifetime for Kjerstin, following in the footsteps of her lead rein pony who took them to fourth at HOYS in 2021. A true character away from the ring, Kye is known as the “Turbo Slug” for his love of a gallop and is equally famous for his stable antics, food obsession and demand for bum scratches. Beneath his cheeky, diva-like personality is a kind and genuine pony who adores Kjerstin.

For their family, this milestone is about so much more than a rosette,  it’s another special memory to treasure together.

Image Courtesy of Equinational Photography

Qualified Royal Bath & West Show May 2026

Kelsey and her 26 year old mare, Snip, have been an inseparable team for 17 years. Originally bought to go jumping, Snip had other ideas, and together they discovered a love of showing despite starting with no experience.  

Last year, after recovering from a life threatening illness and a serious check ligament injury, Kelsey thought retirement was the kindest option. Instead, Snip made an incredible comeback, qualifying for Horse of the Year Show at their first attempt. A true diva with a mischievous streak and a love of rolling in the mud, Snip continues to prove that patience, perseverance and belief can make dreams come true. 

Qualified Royal Norfolk Show June 2026 

Lucy and 15 year old Inverin Paddy, affectionately known as Joey, have shared six years together and are now looking forward to the biggest stage of their partnership.  

Joey came into Lucy’s life at a poignant time, spotted by her dad at a show just before she lost her beloved pony of 20 years, making Joey feel like a true “fate pony”.  

Easy going both at home and at shows, Joey has a mischievous side too, from throwing his feed bin over the stable door to escaping when his bottom bolt isn’t shut! A pony who loves his treats, cuddles and countryside hacks, Joey has helped Lucy achieve more than she ever imagined. Now, competing at Horse of the Year Show is a dream come true for this very special partnership. 

Image courtesy of www.topshots.org.uk

Qualified Scottish Horse Show July 2026

Twenty-one-year-old Taffechan Flashman, better known as Berti Blaze, qualified for HOYS at the Scottish Horse Show in July. He’s owned by Susan Don, who has had him since he was nine, and for much of that time Berti’s main career has been driving trials, where the pair have enjoyed plenty of success.

Berti has always liked having different things to do, though. In recent years he’s taken up dressage with Shonagh, who doesn’t have a horse of her own and describes riding him as “a gift”. They’ve recently stepped up to BD Medium Freestyle, and Berti apparently knows exactly which tune goes with which pace. He still drives with Susan too, although these days in a slightly steadier traditional carriage and harness competition.

At home, Berti is very clear about what he likes. Pampering is high on the list, and if possible, he’d happily have someone scratching or massaging him all day. He’s also a man of routine, particularly when it comes to his after-breakfast nap. Even away from home, sleep time means Do Not Distrurb!

For Shonagh, getting to take Berti to HOYS feels incredibly special. He’s a best friend who keeps everyone laughing and smiling with his intelligence, character and wit.

Image courtesy of www.sinclairphotography.co.uk

 Qualified Denbigh & Flint Show, Wales August 2026

Twenty five year old Brynithon Guardsman, known as Bryn, has spent the last 18 years proving that he can turn his hoof to almost anything. Richard bought the rather scruffy, green 15.2hh Welsh Section D from a dealer when he was seven. He wasn’t exactly what Richard had gone looking for, but there was something about Bryn that felt honest and genuine.
Since then, Richard has done all the work with him himself, and together they have built a remarkable partnership. Bryn has competed in dressage and showing, including Working Hunter classes at the Cheshire Show, but he has also been a horse for other people to enjoy. He’s carried a para rider representing England at the Home Counties, helped a teenager with GCSE PE and Pony Club tests, and has even been hunting.
Richard says Bryn seems to look after people. Despite once being a nervous, green horse, he has grown into a confident character who knows exactly what he wants and how he likes to be ridden. He’s also a complete gentleman, even if he does have a few quirks.
One of Bryn’s favourite routines comes at the end of a ride. Once his saddle and bridle are off, he waits patiently for Richard to rub his face, cheeks, mouth and ears. If Richard stops too soon, Bryn simply stands and waits for more. Anyone else riding him has to be told about the routine too.
After 18 years together, Richard describes Bryn simply as “just ace”. With his gentle nature, quiet confidence and willingness to look after the people around him, it’s easy to see why. Qualifying for HOYS at 25 is another chapter in the story of a horse who has already given so much to so many people.

Image courtesy of www.equinepix.co.uk