Highland Pony Society Centenary Celebration

The Highland Pony Society will mark its 100^th year with a centenary celebration parade at Horse of the Year Show 2023.  Showcasing a representation of the Highland breed, the display will feature highland ponies under saddle, driving, showing and working animals – highlighting the versatility that the Highland breed are well known for.

We will welcome this special celebratory parade in the Andrews Bowen International Arena during the evening performance on Sunday 8^th October.

The Highland Pony Society was borne from the National Pony Society, the main organisation responsible for administering native and riding ponies across the country at that time. Though the first attempt to create an independent organisation was thwarted by the First World War, the second attempt was more successful when a group of the most influential landowners in Scotland met on the 25^th May 1923, the Highland Pony Society was created.

Today, the Highland Pony Society is one of the largest native breed organisations, which has in the region of 1,700 members from throughout the UK, Europe and extending even to New Zealand and Australia. 

Speaking to members of the Highland Pony Society, Viki and Jordan Headspeath commented, “What a fantastic year it has been to be involved with Highland Ponies and to be a member of the Highland Pony Society. To celebrate the Centenary of the Society, the council, members, and volunteers have organised a programme of fun and educational events for the membership and the wider public to enjoy. We look forward to showcasing the breed at Horse of the Year Show and showing you all the versatility of our highland breed.”

Horse of the Year Show takes place from 4^th – 8^th October 2023, we can’t wait to see you there!  To stay up-to-date with the latest HOYS news and to be the first to know what’s happening, sign up to our newsletter here: https://hoys.co.uk/newsletter-sign-up/