Hollie Gerken made history at the Horse of the Year Show in 2024, securing a record-breaking treble with victories in three major pony championships.
Hollie is gearing up for another unforgettable week at HOYS 2025 as she looks to defend all three of her titles. Catch her in action on Thursday in the Blue Chip Pony Newcomers Championship and the Demolition Services Ltd Leading Pony Showjumper of the Year, before returning on Friday for the STX-UK Pony Foxhunter Championship.
Reflecting on her journey, Hollie said: “Last year at HOYS was just amazing, it was such a ‘pinch me moment’ that a year later I still can’t actually believe it happened.”
Hollie is no stranger to HOYS success, having already claimed multiple pony championship titles. One of her stand-out partnerships has been with Galaxy V: “Galaxy V is the most lovely pony, she has the biggest heart and just wants to do her job! I won on her last year and I am going back to jump the Demolition Services Ltd Pony Showjumper again this year. She doesn’t have any quirks, she is just the perfect pony.”
Her preparation includes training with her coach Paul Kelly and ensuring her ponies are show-ring ready: “We will have a training session with my trainer Paul Kelly on the lead up to HOYS, in between all the ponies will be clipped so they are looking smart in the ring.”
Despite her achievements, Hollie remains grounded: “To be completely honest, everyone who has qualified is capable of winning the classes. So on the day I genuinely think that everyone has an equal chance.”
For Hollie, HOYS will always be the pinnacle: “It’s definitely a nerve-wracking feeling riding into that arena, the atmosphere is amazing and it’s everyone’s dream to be able to ride through those curtains. The atmosphere at Horse of the Year Show is like no other, you are always so well supported! There is no other show like this.”
ENDS
For more information on Horse of the Year Show 2025, please contact Horse of the Year Show Press Office, Grandstand Media Ltd. Tel: 02476 858205. Email: press@hoys.co.uk
Image: Hollie Gerken and Galaxy V credit 1st Class Images
