Picture Perfect pony who ‘always has a smile on his face’ reclaims championship
Picture perfect 148cm reclaims the overall show pony spoils and a first tricolour for his rider at the 2026 Royal International
Roseberry Picture Perfect was picture perfect to land the BSPS supreme show pony championship at the 2026 Agria Royal International Horse Show (RIHS).
Stoneleigh Showtime and Izzy Walker made a bid to defend their 2025 title and got as far as winning the 128cm division. But they were stopped there, as the championship headed up north to Yorkshire, as 148cm division winner Roseberry Picture Perfect (Haribo) reclaimed his 2023 crown, this time with Lilly Ahern in the saddle.
Haribo is now owned by Lilly’s grandfather Paddy Ahern and produced by Lilly’s mother Alex and her aunt – Alex’s sister – Kirsty Pickles.
The Aherns bought Haribo last May from Tammy Heathcote, but he remained with Tammy's daughter Chloe's ride until after Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) as she had earned an extra year in the 148cm owing to the change in rules.
“It worked out perfectly for us,” said Alex, “We wouldn’t have been ready for him last year.”
The quality Whiteleaze Democrat eight-year-old was bred by Tammy and her late mother Susie Hinchliffe. Haribo is the last Susie foaled, making his every victory more special.
This particular one was also special for the Aherns, as although they have earned many tricolours here with ponies they have produced, it’s the first one with a pony of their own, and a first for Lilly, 14.
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They hit the ground running together this term, bagging the first HOYS pass of the year in the show pony ranks at Royal Bath and West.”
They also finished runners-up in the show ponies at Royal Windsor and stood reserve part-bred there.
“He’s one of the biggest characters on the yard,” said Alex. “He’s always got a smile on his face – but it’s a cheeky smile. He never does anything, but he’s a real character.”
Reserve overall show pony went to the second-placed 148cm, the Team Jinks produced Shildons Regal Heir – a big-moving chestnut owned and bred by Vicky Rudd, and piloted by Livie Smith – who made the most of a final spin here in the class before having to hand over the reins for HOYS as under their rules, she is out of the class.
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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.