Two-time HOYS Champion partners a young jockey to victory in The Price Family Mini Show Pony of the Year Championship

The 2018 Price Family First Ridden Pony of the Year class had the 2017, 2016, 2015 and 2007 overall Champions among the ponies contesting the prestigious title. It was the 2015 Champion – Woodview Ianthe – who reclaimed The Price Family Mini Show Pony of the Year Championship with a picture perfect performance on the penultimate day of Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).

Nine-year-old Maisie Binks started her first HOYS in true style, riding her Grandma Jane’s 12-year-old bay mare to victory. Ellie, as she is known at home, is produced by the Emmerson Show Team.

Jane Bennison bought the pony one year ago and Maisie has only ridden her at a handful of shows over the season including three on the lead rein. As dad Jimmy Binks said: “She was chucked in at the deep end a bit,” but did a fabulous job in the ring nonetheless!

Mum Amy said: “We didn’t think she [Ellie] would top going Supreme at the BSPS Summer Championships, so this is just fantastic! We just go out and enjoy it.”

There are five daughters in the Binks household and they all ride. Between them they’ve qualified and been placed on a number of ponies at HOYS over the last few years, and have three rides this year.

Reserve Champion went to the winner of the Lead Rein section, Megan Gilbert’s Chaseford Actor ridden by six-year-old Bella Gilbert.

The bay gelding is also just six years old and was bought from the breeder as an unbroken three-year-old. He is produced by Julie Templeton and, despite his young age, has already been to HOYS twice. Speaking after the class, Julie said he “really came into his own” this year.

The Price Family Lead Rein Pony of the Year gives children under the age of seven the opportunity to ride in a competitive environment, while The Price Family First Ridden Pony of the Year gives riders under the age of 10 their first chance at riding in the ring by themselves. First and second place from each go forward to the Championship.

ENDS

Image credit: 1^st Class Images

For more information on Horse of the Year Show 2018, or to request a selection of copyright free images, please contact:

Horse of the Year Show Press Office

Grandstand Media Ltd

Tel: 02476 858 205

Email: press@hoys.co.uk