Raphaela Dawson added her name to an illustrious roll of honour at Horse of the Year Show by being crowned Leading Pony Showjumper of the Year.
Berkshire-based Raphaela, who helped Great Britain win team gold at this year’s Pony European Championships, triumphed aboard MHS Glow in stylish fashion.
First to go of eight combinations in the jump-off, their time of 30.29 seconds delivered a clear victory from runner-up Amy Capper aboard Capability Brown and third-placed Tabby Morgan-Evans with Conella II.
Two of Raphaela’s GB team-mates, meanwhile, also featured at the class’ business end, with Lucia Caroline (Holly Blue) taking fourth and Henry Leggott (Blossoms Big Claim) fifth.
And it meant that Raphaela’s final year on ponies produced the most notable HOYS victory of all, four years after she won the 128cm Championship in the same Andrews Bowen International Arena.
The Leading Pony Showjumper class has featured in every HOYS edition since its inception 77 years ago, with previous winners including household British showjumping names like Harry Charles, Jessica Mendoza and Michael Whitaker.
“She was exceptional today,” Raphaela said, of her pony. “She’s got such a good stride, and really gives you that feeling. I was quite nervous when a couple got close to our time, but this really tops off an incredible year.
“It is very special because I won here in 2022 in my first year on ponies, so to come back and win again in my last year feels amazing.”
And looking to the future, she added: “I have currently got one horse, and we are hoping to get another one. And then, hopefully, my ambitions are juniors, young riders, all the way to five-star level.”
ENDS
For more information on Horse of the Year Show 2026, please contact:
Horse of the Year Show Press Office, Grandstand Media Ltd.
Tel: 02476 858205
Email: press@hoys.co.uk
Image: 1st Class Images