£300 pony is crowned HOYS Lead Rein Pony of Hunter Type of the Year Champion

The final Champion to be crowned in the TopSpec Arena on Saturday at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) was Alexandria Aungier’s Welsh section A, Uphill Toy Soldier, ridden by daughter Gracie. A delighted Gracie gave Colin, as he is known at home, a big cuddle of appreciation as she stepped forward to receive the prestigious prize.

Led in the ring by her sister Georgia, who also produces the 10-year-old pony, Gracie finished her last season of lead rein classes in true style. Georgia said: “He just knows his job and rises to the occasion.”

The family bought Colin as an unbroken three-year-old for just £300 and have home produced him into a HOYS Champion. He’s qualified for the class every year since 2015, finishing sixth in 2015 and third in 2017.

“He owes us nothing,” said Alexandria, who explained that Colin will now be retired from competition and become Lily – Gracie’s sister’s – ‘play’ pony.

Richard Hulbert’s 12-year-old Little Briars Bartholomew, shown by Lily Varley, stood Reserve Champion.

This class aims to find a pony suitable to take its rider on country and town activities on the leading rein. Each pony is required to perform an individual show and negotiate a few rural obstacles, including walking in between a line of trees and through a fenced pathway.

Ends

Image credit: 1^st Class Images

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