THERE was plenty of anticipation ahead of the 2024 Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), mainly around how the judging format adopted for the 75th-anniversary edition of the show would play out.
On this occasion, a list of respected judges from across the globe was revealed at the start of the year. However, exactly who would be officiating each final at HOYS wasn’t known until the night before each class.
There was definitely some apprehension about the change, mainly as it was the unknown, something different to what we were used to. Usually, at the beginning of the season, many decide if HOYS is a show they want to aim an animal for given who will be judging them in October.
Throughout the year, there has been very little speculation about who was set to take to the centre line, and a few surprise, yet thoroughly deserving, wins and placings were sprung in real-time during our week at the NEC.
It made for an interesting and engaging watch, and the general consensus among spectators was that the change was refreshing and it revitalised viewing.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Better judges' cover a must to protect the sport's future
A group insurance option has been found to protect the officials showing needs but only if enough sign up
IVF with frozen sperm is a 'milestone' in equine breeding
The first successful use of frozen semen in the technique has been recorded in an American study
Challenging ourselves to be and do better for our horses
The 2024 FEI general assembly heard how we should all challenge ourselves to give horses the best lives possible
Scottish jockeys to benefit from fund's top services
A new centre in Galashiels has been built thanks to a legacy donation
How horse simulators could help encourage people into riding
It is hoped the new model will help break down barriers to the sector for a wide range of people
Many horses' needs aren't met: study finds chance to improve
Researchers say all must ensure horses have space, friends, forage and good experiences
Humble pie
How many ladies does it take to cook a shepherd's pie? It’s a complicated one, says Tessa Waugh, on a quest to find appropriate ovens for the impending hunt auction dinner
I love an underdog
The arrival of the winter mud brings with it a Venetia Williams hat-trick, but the day belongs to a warrior gelding, who never stops trying”
Jumping Jack cracks it
A scopey grey is learning to be quick” anda broodmare makes up for lost time
A star is born
A nine-year-old mare helps put Luxembourg on the map and we celebrate a remarkable grey’s comeback
