Helen Starkie is one of the judges who has the enviable task of judging at the 2026 Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).
This year, what each judge is assessing will be revealed just the night before the class. Trialled in 2024, this format is back by popular demand. So, while we won't know what Helen is judging for the time being, we can learn a little more about her, her background in showing, and what she will be looking for in the ring.
Helen Starkie’s background in horses
Lancashire-based Helen has been involved with horses since a child.
“Being a pony-mad child, my parents bought me my first pony when I was 12 years old,” says Helen. “He was a great all-rounder that I enjoyed competing at local shows. In the 80s we hacked to shows, did three or four classes and then hacked home. How things have changed!”
Both of Helen’s sons – Jack and Morgan – rode and showed ponies, predominantly natives. Both sons were successful, too, winning the mountain and moorland (M&M) first ridden class at HOYS; Jack won aboard the multigarlanded Waxwing Paintbox in 2006 before going on to take the mini M&M championship, and Morgan steered Wendon Choice to the title in 2013.
“The photos take pride of place on my living room wall,” says Helen. “Competing with their ponies gave them a strong work ethics and made them competitive. They are 24 and 30 now and are both doctors.”
Jack and Morgan also rode a pony that Helen considers has had a significant impact on her: Pumphill Bennet.
Horse & Hound Newsletter
Never miss out on the latest happenings in the equestrian world
“Both my sons rode him with great success and many wins at HOYS, Royal International, Olympia and county shows. He never stopped giving his all and the partnership that he had with the boys was a pleasure to watch. He’s 25 now and enjoying his well deserved retirement at home on our farm.”
Jack Starkie riding Pumphill Bennet
(Image credit: Future)
Helen says, reflecting on her time in showing: “Showing has also taught me good sportsmanship, accepting wins modestly and to act professionally when results were not always in my favour.”
Helen’s judging experience
“I started judging and stewarding when my sons got older and I had time to put something back into the system, and hopefully encourage and advise people coming into showing,” she says.
Since then, Helen has judged a host of shows up and down the country, including judging the M&M final at London International, an appointment she considers a highlight.
“I also judged in New Zealand this year, which was a fantastic experience and I would love to go back there.”
What will Helen be looking for when judging?
“At HOYS this year I am hoping to see forward moving ponies with good limb and where applicable, true to type movement and conformation.
“I am a big fan of tradition in showing regarding dress, performance, manners and sportsmanship,” she says.
“One of my pet hates is ponies going over-bent and ponies not being true to type and lacking good limb.
“My advice to HOYS first-timers is to plan your working in times, and enjoy every moment and enjoy all the show.”
Bethan joined Horse & Hound as showing editor in January 2025, after spending two years as Editor for Showing World. Having adored ponies since childhood, she started showing as a teenager and has enjoyed wins at major shows up and down the country, including Royal Highland, New Forest, and the Royal Welsh, as well as HOYS, RIHS and London. She is particularly passionate about Welsh breeds and is also a Welsh language commentator.
