I always look forward to early October and my annual visit to the Horse Of The Year Show and it was a special pleasure this year to be able to attend on the Saturday of the 75th anniversary. 

As usual, we were treated to a great variety of entertainment, including international and national showjumping, pony games, scurry racing and displays. Highlights included a victory for Amy Capper in the Equine Services 138cm championship, followed by another rising star, Jodie Hall McAteer, who swept to success in the Accumulator. The Pony Games for the Prince Philip Cup were as fast and exciting as ever, with wins for North Herefordshire and North Warwickshire.  At the other end of the age spectrum, the legendary Jeff Osbourne  (now 88 years young) received a huge ovation for his performance in the scurry racing. His wife, Alison, acted as groom for him and then went on to actually defeat him to win the event. Jeff's consolation was the special award that he received for his 40 years of support and sponsorship. 

The Musical Drives are always interesting to watch and we had the contrast between the heavy horses and some gentle, soothing music and the Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery with some upbeat rock 'n roll (first time I have ever seen horses grooving to "Johnny B Goode!").  The finale of the evening, was as always, the Puissance and the air was filled with tension as the height of the wall rose. Geoff Curran was attempting to win this for the third year in succession, but it wasn't to be, as Joe Trunkfeld gained his second victory at a height of 7ft. 1in.

The atmosphere on the Saturday of HOYS is always electric and this is assisted by the enthusiasm of the commentary team, who encourage audience participation with lighted phones being waved  to the strains of "Sweet Caroline" and "Rockin' All Over The World." Organisation is superb and the event runs like clockwork.  My wife and I had a thoroughly enjoyable time and thanks to Helena and the team at Grandstand Media for the opportunity to attend. Here's to the next one in 2025!