Latest from Horse & Hound in Highland-ponies

From the dinky supreme to the majestic Clydesdale: meet eight stunning showing champions at Scone Palace

Bethan Simons — Sun, 31 Aug 2025 07:30:10 +0000

Showing competitors flocked to Scone Palace International Horse Trials (21-24 August) to contend the inaugural Scone Palace native breed and hunter shows. Meet eight stunning showing champions at Scone Palace who battled it out to make history as the first of their types to take a title here…

Eight stunning showing champions at Scone Palace

1. Dukeshill Penny Pincher

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Aimee Lock’s Welsh section A Dukeshill Penny Pincher and 10-year-old Olivia Dickson took the overall supreme championship. The pair were open ridden champions en route. Nine-year-old “Spam” was bred by Jo Sheil out of Dukeshill Penny From Heaven by Oldenzijlster Action Man, a Dutch stallion known as Ham who was borrowed by Jo for a season in a stallion swap.

2. Bracklinn Beth

(Image credit: Nico Morgan)

Fell mare Bracklinn Beth lifted the NPS Scotland/Townhead Pet n Pony M&M in-hand final championship en route to the reserve supreme spot. She was exhibited by her breeders, the Smith Family, and handled by Alistair Smith. By Auckside Freddie out of Bracklinn Tess, Beth was supreme champion at the Fell Pony Society breed show just a week prior to her debut at Scone Palace.

3. Mullachbuie MacLaren

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Jane McNaught’s lightly-shown dun gelding Mullachbuie MacLaren (Eric) lifted the NPS Scotland/Kilmannan Stud M&M novice ridden championship title. The six-year-old is a son of Glenwestcastle Loch Rannoch and Megaidh of Mullachbuie, and he was bred by Catriona Lackie.

4. Edenagor Ned

(Image credit: Samantha Chapman)

Chloe Macdonald’s six-year-old middleweight hunter Edenagor Ned, ridden by James Munro, came out on top in the hunter championship ahead of his teammate, novice victor Jamie’s Future, steered by Russell Skelton, also photographed. Both horses have a Royal Highland hunter championship to their names, the former under saddle and the latter in-hand. They are also both HOYS-bound in October.

5. Mardoug’s Highland Park

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Yvonne Pringle riding her own Mardoug’s Highland Park, an eight-year-old gelding by Tillside Topsman out of Pacemuir Marion Morrison, trumped 18 others to claim the Scone Castle ridden Clydesdale final.

6. Rookery Bertie

(Image credit: Nico Morgan)

Aberdeen-based rider Lucy Whiteford, 11, aboard her scopey Welsh Section A Rookery Bertie claimed the 122cm NPS Scotland/Kingfisher Building Products M&M working hunter pony class – and the section championship. Bertie, a son of Uphill James Fox son is home-produced and he provided Lucy with her first-ever HOYS ticket at the Royal Highland Show.

7. Dewley Essence

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Chris Grant’s home-bred three-year-old filly Dewley Essence – kept on a conservation grazing site – ran through her card to claim the competitive in-hand Highland pony championship. The daughter of Dewley Esmerelda is a third generation home-bred and is by Chris’ multi-Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) finalist and dual Royal Highland Show champion Dunedin Iolare.

8. Bosley Minns George

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Kati Rhodes and Paula Roskell’s impressive 18.1hh nine-year-old Shire stallion Bosley Minns George impressed to take the ridden HOYS heavy horse qualifier. This will be the Acle Charmer son’s first visit to HOYS.

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Want to buy a Highland pony? A breeder explains how to begin your search for your dream partner

Alex Robinson — Sun, 13 Jul 2025 07:30:49 +0000

Looking to buy a Highland pony to be your next best friend? If you’re wanting a ride for the show ring, or you are simply looking for a larger pony that’s hardy, versatile and fun, this native breed is definitely worthy of your consideration.

What is a Highland pony?

The Highland Pony is one of the three native pony breeds of the Scottish Highlands and Islands (alongside the Shetland and Eriskay), but there are now studs located throughout Scotland, England, Wales, Europe and across the rest of the word. The Highland pony was originally bred to work on small farms in Scotland, and while some ponies are still worked in parts of the countryside, they are now used for a variety of riding activities.

The Highland Pony Society (HPS) is the guardian of the breed and offers the following description on what to look for in a good example:

“The Highland pony is a strong, well-balanced, compact pony with all its features being in proportion to its height. It is one of the largest of the British native breeds and should show substance and strength. The strength and sound temperament of Highland ponies make them good work horses and they are still used in areas inaccessible to machines, such as in logging or to extract deer carcasses from the hill.”

Height: Not to exceed 14.2hh (148cm).

Head: Well carried and alert with kindly eye. Broad muzzled with a deep jowl.

Neck and Shoulders: Reasonable length of neck from wither with a good sloping shoulder and well placed forearm.

Body: Well balanced and compact with plenty of room for heart and lungs. Ribs well sprung.

Quarters and Hindlegs: Powerful quarters with well developed thigh, strong second thigh and clean flat hocks.

Legs: Flat hard bone, broad knees, short cannon bones, oblique pasterns and well shaped broad dark hoofs. Feather soft and silky. Ponies of Western Isles type may have striped hoofs which grow out at maturity.

Mane and Tail: Hair should be natural, flowing and untrimmed with a full tail.

Colours: A range of duns, mouse, yellow, grey, cream. Also grey, brown, black, bay and occasionally liver chestnut with silver mane and tail. Many ponies have a dorsal stripe and some show zebra markings on legs and shoulder. Foal coat colour often changes and many ponies change colour gradually as they grow older, especially those with grey hairs interspersed with the original colour. Others show a slight seasonal change in colour between winter and summer coats. Broken colours are not allowed. A small star is acceptable but other white markings are discouraged. Stallions with white markings other than a small star are not eligible for licensing.

Action: Straight and free moving without undue knee action.

Capabilities: A ride, drive and pack animal which can adapt to many equestrian disciplines.

The late Queen Elizabeth II was known for her love of the breed. She was a patron of the society and she bred Highland ponies under the Balmoral prefix. Her ponies won many titles, including the in-hand supreme at Royal Windsor.

The Highland Pony Enthusiasts Club says the fact that Highlands perform well in comparatively slow work such as trekking, forestry and deer-carrying suggests that they have a calm, steady temperament: “This makes them outstandingly suitable for the nervous or elderly, and they have also been used successfully as mounts for disabled riders, all of whom appreciate their confidence-giving attributes.

“However, it must not be thought that, because they are kind and reliable, they are also dull. For many a Highland has shown itself to be a keen, active ride in the hunting field and, correctly schooled, to be able to compete with great success in Pony Club and riding club activities – making up by sure-footedness and handiness what it may lack in outright speed. With the present revival in harness work both for showing and for pleasure, the ponies are once more proving their worth in this field also.

“Safe, reliable, friendly, a good, comfortable ride, constitutionally strong and hardy, attractive to look at, and with considerably more versatility than is generally appreciated, the Highland pony has so much to offer.”

Highland ponies are popular in the show ring and they have form at major shows. An example is stallion Benbreac Of Crolia who was the 2018 Royal International supreme pony, becoming the first native to land the title, while stallion Stirlingdene was supreme at HOYS in 2012.

What should I look for in a Highland?

Gillian McMurray is a leading judge and she also breeds Highlands under the Trailtrow Prefix. Ponies from the Trailtrow Stud have featured at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and London International several times, winning best of breed titles on many occasions. Gillian was supreme at Olympia in 1987 riding her foundation mare, Dunrowan Dolphin.

“I would recommend that most prospective buyers attend some big shows – such as Blair, the Royal Highland or the HPS breed show – to look at classes of ponies and see how much variation in type there is within the breed,” says Gillian.

“The type you would want for a top ridden pony would differ compared to the pony you’d need for hacking or deer work. If looking for a pony for the ridden job, I would want something with a good length of rein and a good shoulder, nothing too straight. Then, we want a lovely round hind-end with a short second thigh; this is the engine of the pony that pushes it forwards. There are a few ponies out there that are too straight in the hind-leg and it does show during their ridden work.

“Like with any pony, we want nice straight limbs that don’t deviate from the knee down, as well as good strong feet.

“Movement wise, the walk is a really important pace. Traditionally, the Highland would spend the majority of its time walking. Canter isn’t their natural pace; many can find it hard to come up off their forehand in the canter. However, if you find something with a good hind leg they will find it easier.”

Where should I buy a Highland from?

There are online sale sites that have Highland ponies advertised throughout the year.

“Attending shows to see what type of pony you are looking for is the best place to start,” says Gillian. “Then, it would be a case of approaching breeders. Some breeders produce for riding more than others, so it completely depends on what job you want your pony to do. Most breeders will have youngstock for sale, so if you’re looking for a pony that is up and running, you should check out breed enthusiast groups, or the HPS has a sales list on their website.

“Make sure you ask around to see if anyone has seen the pony out and about, especially if it’s done some showing,” Gillian adds. “This could help you gage if the pony is suitable for you and your set-up.”

How much should I expect to pay?

Prices vary greatly depending on the age and experience of the pony.

“I would be wary of something that is very cheap due to the general price of Highlands these days,” Gillian says. “There are only approximately 250 foals born each year, so prices have gone up. At minimum, you can expect to pay anything from £2,000 for a foal at weaning, and you can expect a reasonable amount to be added on each year. A pony ready for breaking could reach anything from £5,000 upwards. Winning ponies with experience have been advertised for around the £15,000 mark.”

I’ve found a pony, now what?

It is time to organise a pre-purchase vetting, something that is strongly recommended. If the pony is for a junior rider, asking for a trial period would be sensible, but not all sellers will agree to this.

It’s important to let the vet know prior to the vetting what you intend to use the pony for so they can assess it accordingly. If you tell the vet that you want the pony for the show ring, they should hopefully inform you of any blemishes or conformational faults which could impact its future career, even if they don’t impact its soundness or performance.

“A vetting is sensible, though a five-stage would not be appropriate for a youngster,” Gillian says. “If you’re going to view young ponies, do take someone experienced with you. If you are buying something up and running, then a vetting would be advised.”

For more information, you can read H&H’s ultimate guide to buying a horse.

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‘I’m in shock’: Highland stallion provides rider with second HOYS win of the day

Alex Robinson — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 05:30:04 +0000

Clare Fitch scored a glorious second win on day one of the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), this time in the 2024 HOYS Highland pony of the year final.

Her ride was Ruth Robert’s 10-year-old dun stallion Valerock Monroe. He was bred by Stacey Walsh, by Dubhadh Rioghail of Glenbuckie out of Valerock Sweet Briar.

“I’m in shock,” said an elated Clare, who noted it was the first time she’d taken to the NEC centre line twice in a single day.

Munro is the nephew of the stallion Strathleven Drumochter who Clare won HOYS with in 2016.

“When Ruth said she’d like another hairy, I went to the lady who used to own Drumochter and she mentioned she had a stallion she’d been doing some in-hand with,” Clare explained. “He was unbroken and I was the first person to sit on him. He’s an angel; you could take your granny out on him.”

Munro has only been lightly shown and he’s also excelled in the dressage arena.

“The dressage judges seem to love him; they think he’s precise and a bit different,” Clare said.

Ruth is the owner of Clare’s first 2024 HOYS winner, Fell stallion Wildhoeve Okidoki.

Monroe qualified for this year’s HOYS final at New Forest and Hampshire County show with stand-in jockey Aimee Devane, as Clare explained: “I was in another ring on one of Ruth’s Arabs so Aimee jumped in to ride him, and Ruth groomed for her. We were so busy that day, but he’s so easy that anyone can sit on him.”

Second place in the 2024 HOYS Highland pony of the year final was Glenbanchor Benbecular, a stallion owned and ridden by Rachel Singleton. Third position was occupied by Katie Common aboard her own gelding Dunedin Mascot.

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‘A pony of a lifetime’: farewell to Highland stallion who broke records in glorious career

Alex Robinson — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 13:50:33 +0000

Melanie and Gemma Stanford’s prolific Highland stallion Benbreac Of Croila has died aged 17 after a short illness. He was one of the most consistent native ponies of modern times, becoming the first native to win the supreme at the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS), in 2018.

By Ulleam of Croila out of Shelagh of Croila, Benbreac of Croila — known as Breac at home — he was bred by the late Cameron Ormiston.

Melanie and her daughter Gemma bought Breac as an unhandled yearling.

“Mum bought two yearling colts; Breac was actually meant to be a companion as Mum preferred the other pony,” Gemma said. “Breac was the definition of an ugly duckling who blossomed into a swan. I put so much time into him as a youngster and sometimes I’d look at him and think ‘I wonder if I’ll ever lead you in a championship’. We had an incredible bond.”

Breac made his debut in the show ring at the back end of his three-year-old year, and as a four-year-old he achieved his first major win when he stood in-hand champion at the National Pony Society Spring Festival.

“I remember he got a picture in H&H after that win,” said Gemma. “During his career he was also an H&H horse hero and a cover star.”

For the majority of his career, Breac was shown under saddle by Matt Cooper, and Gemma took the lead in in-hand classes.

He became a two-time Royal Windsor M&M in-hand supreme winner and he was also M&M ridden champion there twice, qualifying for London International on both occasions.

His other results include lifting the overall supreme at the British Show Pony Society (BSPS) Heritage championships, winning the supreme Heritage championship at the BSPS summer championships and claiming the £1,000 supreme final at North of England. He qualified for Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) six times, winning once and standing second twice. He was best of breed at London International four times, also finishing third overall in 2015 and reserve overall in both 2016 and 2019. He won in-hand titles at the Great Yorkshire, the Royal Highland, Royal Cornwall and Royal Norfolk. He was also ridden champion at the Royal Highland.

Gemma added: “He won everything a Highland pony could possibly win. At Hickstead, he broke all records and made history.”

He retired from the ring in 2019 after London aged 12.

“In 2019 I had a baby and he only did four shows that year,” Gemma said. “He qualified for HOYS and London, and contested the two finals. Then, Covid hit, so his retirement was well timed.”

His stock has also excelled in the show ring; his daughter Finglands Flora enjoyed many wins on the novice circuit and his son Finglands Braveheart followed in his sire’s footsteps when he won the £1,000 supreme final at North of England, also appearing at HOYS.

Gemma added: “It was his showmanship and unrivalled presence that was so rare. If anybody saw him in the ring, they’d understand what I meant. He would go from being the quietest stallion that anyone could handle to being the ultimate showman. He lived for the show ring and thrived on outings. He came alive when he stepped into the ring and was the most incredible performer. He is irreplaceable and will leave the biggest hole in our hearts. He’s a pony of a lifetime.”

To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout Horse of the Year Show, London International and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

The late Queen’s ponies to move from Balmoral to England

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 15:31:37 +0000

The late Queen’s Highland pony breeding programme is to be moved from Balmoral Castle to England, it has been confirmed.

A spokesman for Balmoral said the stud would return to Hampton Court Palace near London rather than continuing at the Scottish castle in which Her Majesty spent her last days.

The ponies moved to Balmoral in 2007, to work on the 64,000-acre estate as well as for the breeding programme. The Queen was very much involved with the ponies; she would visit the stud every time she was at the castle, and was interested in their success in the show ring.

“Historically the royal Highland pony breeding programme has been based at Hampton Court Palace,” the Balmoral spokesman said.

“In 2007 a small programme was opened on the Balmoral Estate. Breeding will now be consolidated back to Hampton Court Palace; during this period of transition the Royal Household is in consultation with staff who will be affected by the change.”

It is not known how many jobs will be affected. The stud has been managed since 2007 by Sylvia Ormiston, whose husband is the farm manager.

It is thought there are about 40 ponies at the stud, and the castle is also home to Highland cattle and Cheviot sheep.

The Balmoral spokesman said: “We are in a process of consultation and cannot comment further at the present time.”

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

Pony display team gives impromptu M40 concert to relieve traffic boredom

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 12:06:48 +0000

What do you do if you’re en route to Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) for a special performance, you haven’t had a chance for a last practice, and you get stuck in standstill traffic on the M40? You give an impromptu concert by the side of the road.

Other drivers stuck in the tailback caused by a vehicle fire on Sunday (8 October) were treated to some pipes and drums, some even getting out of their cars to dance, courtesy of members of the Highland Pony Society centenary celebration display team.

Erik Mackechnie-Guire, who has been a judge for over 20 years and was approached by the society to put on the music and choreograph the display, also took three generations of home-bred Highlands for the display. Their 22-mile journey to the NEC from Moreton Morrell took three hours.

“We were due to be there for a practice and were worried it wouldn’t happen,” he told H&H.

“So they did an impromptu busk on the roadside to work out the start and finish. It broke up the sitting still for two and a half hours! People got out of their cars to video and join in, and some people were dancing.”

Erik said once the traffic started moving, there was “a rush to get the drums in and get going”.

“But it was really good,” he said, adding that they did reach the NEC in time for a run-through before the performance. The Highland Pony Society has held a year of events to mark its centenary, including a ride at Balmoral, believed to have been requested by The late Queen who bred Highlands, and a display at the Royal Highland Show.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

This culmination at HOYS featured ponies under saddle, driving and working, “highlighting the versatility that the Highland breed is well known for”.

“It was superb,” Eric said. “The crowd really got behind us, and it definitely made up for the journey.”

Erik’s niece Mia Goodge, who plays the tenor drum in the Fife Police Pipe Band which was placed at the World Pipe Band Championships this year, added: “[Pipers] Finn and Bertie and I had one practice a couple of weeks ago. I love stuff like that, playing anywhere I can; any sort of attention!

“The ponies were super, absolutely brilliant.”

‘He was absolutely foot-perfect for me’: Highland stallion reigns on his first HOYS visit

Alex Robinson — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 18:09:45 +0000

Amber Thorpe landed the National Pony Society/Baileys Horse Feeds M&M ridden Highland pony of the year title at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) with her own stallion Marksman Of Mendick.

The seven-year-old, who is by Strathmore Airlie out of Gissings Luscardene, was making his debut at HOYS, after qualifying at Derbyshire Festival on his first attempt.

“I honestly cannot believe it; I never dreamed this could happen when I bought him,” said Essex-based Amber, who bought Marksman with the intention of him filling the hoof-prints of her successful stallion Highland Chief Of Talisker (Junior), supreme M&M at the 2019 Royal International Horse Show.

Marksman, a former H&H one to watch, was bought directly from his breeders, Kate Dykes and her late husband John Dykes.

Marksman’s in-hand tally includes the Highland Pony Society breed show supreme title. On his ridden CV is this year’s NPS summer championships reserve supreme British Isles ridden title and he was also a RIHS finalist.

“Me and my mum, Claire Thorpe, flew to Scotland to view him, which was quite an ordeal as Mum hates flying,” said Amber, when recalling how the impressive steel grey came to join her team. “John and Kate picked us up from the airport and as soon as we saw him we loved him and bought him.”

Amber was understandably shocked to win her first-ever HOYS final: “I couldn’t stop crying. He was absolutely foot-perfect for me today.

“He is an absolute gentleman in every way possible. He stood like a rock and was falling asleep in the line-up, as happy as anything. This is an absolute dream.”

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Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.

‘We were lucky to have him’: farewell to top native stallion who covered The late Queen’s mares

Alex Robinson — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 17:26:11 +0000

The former National Pony Society (NPS) Olympia mountain and moorland (M&M) supreme champion Snowydene has died aged 30.

Olwen Briant’s Highland stallion Snowydene, who was known at home as Snowy, lifted the prestigious title on his debut at the London final with Lizzie Finlayson-Briant in 2000.

Snowy was bred by Scott McGregor and he was bought by the Briants as a four-year-old.

“We met Scott when we were at Olympia showing our Fell mare, Lunesdale Lucky Lady,” explained Lizzie. “We were admiring his stallion, Falcon Frost Of Sauchrie, and said if he were to ever have a son by him then we’d like to know about it. Luckily for us, when Snowy became available Scott got in touch with us.”

Snowy debuted in the show ring as a six-year-old and he was successful on several occasions, winning multiple novice classes. He qualified for Olympia on his first attempt the following year. At the final in December he was crowned best of breed before scooping the supreme title.

“He was always a bouncy ride and I can remember the ride judge at Olympia [Jackie Beatham] saying that he looked so fresh and happy for how late it was in the season,” recalled Lizzie. “He was pretty gobsmacked by the atmosphere, but he went amazingly well and he did a great show.”

Snowy, a winner of the Glyn Greenwood in-hand supreme at the Ponies (UK) championships in 2004, was also a consistent breeding stallion. He is the sire of former Royal Highland breed supreme Heather of Conway.

“He also covered some of The late Queen’s mares,” Lizzie said. “For a Highland pony he was always forward and off the leg. In his later years he was a bit of a pet and while we once got offered a lot of money for him, we were never tempted to sell him.

“His temperament was second to none; you could cover a mare with him one day and take him to a show the next. He would wander around the yard with my young son, too and we could completely trust him. He also had a love of jam donuts and he had one every birthday right up until the end of his days.

“We are all devastated by his passing, but we feel lucky that he was fit and well right up until he was 30 years old. He never had a sick or sorry day in his life.”

‘It was perfect’: showground stops as terminally ill young rider makes winning competition debut

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 14:16:07 +0000

A young rider with a terminal illness brought a showground to a halt as she competed in – and won – her first ever showing class.

Lexi-May Pearce, 10, rode Beth Naylor’s Highland stallion Lagalgarve Brian at the Kirkby Riding Club show on Sunday (25 June).

Beth, who led Brian in the ring with Lexi on board, told H&H Lexi fell for the eight-year-old as soon as she saw him.

“She lives in Rainworth, the same village as us, and Mum invited her to our yard to see the Shetland, who’s been a therapy pony, but of course, she fell in love with Brian instead!” she said. “I gave her a couple of lessons on him and she loved him; he’s a Highland who only puts in minimal effort which is great.”

Lexi’s fundraising page

Lexi, who was first diagnosed with Wilms’ tumour aged six, then had lessons on riding school ponies with Sam Gorman, thanks to huge local support.

“We did some fundraising, for her hat and body protector and everything, and when I say everybody chipped in – I don’t know one person who didn’t,” Beth said. “All she’s known is pain and operations, and we wanted to do something nice. Then Mum rang the riding club, which we’ve been members of since I was Lexi’s age, and asked if they could do something.

“They put on her class and had a rosette made in her favourite colour, and they stood all the rings down for her.”

Lexi, on Brian, with her mother Danielle and brother Dylan (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Beth added that she had told Lexi she could take her oxygen into the ring with her.

“I said Brian wouldn’t mind but she was determined she was going in without it,” Beth said. “She seemed happy, and that’s what matters.

“It was heartbreaking. But it was amazing. He’s qualified for the Royal International, and he’s been to Horse of the Year Show – but this was genuinely more special.”

A professional equestrian photoshoot has also been arranged for Lexi, and a fundraising page has been set up to support her.

Lexi’s mother Danielle told H&H it was a “fantastic” day, with more memories made.

“It made me feel proud, and emotional,” she said. “We’ve put the rosettes up by her hospital bed at home and she’s so proud of them.”

Danielle added that Lexi was excited before the show, adding: “She couldn’t wait to see Brian! She absolutely loves him.

“The show was so special; all the kind, lovely people coming together, everyone clapping for her. It was perfect.”

‘I’m really motivated to win’: Highland stallion and sprinter retain their HOYS title

Stephanie Bateman — Wed, 05 Oct 2022 12:03:38 +0000

Highland pony stallion Lochlands Gypsy Baron pulled off yet another flawless performance to retain his Horse of the year Show (HOYS) Highland championship title under owner Tracey Milward.

The 12-year-old dun stallion by Whitefield Prince Platinum out of Lochlands Magic Flute, has now been to HOYS six times, but is still as keen and fresh as his first time.

“I’ve had him since he was a foal,” said Tracey who is also six-time British National Masters sprint champion. “He’s only done three shows this year and won at Great Yorkshire show. He’s a pony that’ll stay with me forever.”

A breeding stallion, Gypsy Baron has numerous foals on the ground.

“I’ve got a few of his foals at home with me because I’m breeding now, too,” said Tracey. “He’s a very special boy and his foals carry his beautiful temperament.”

With no arena at her disposal, Tracey uses her local countryside to school Gypsy Baron.

“I hack out over the moors because I don’t have a school at home, so that’s how I get him fit,” she said. “My little boy rides him and he’s so calm and really takes care of him.”

Being a professional athlete and producing top flight show ponies successfully is not an easy task, but it’s one that Tracey relishes.

“I manage it all by being very organised,” she said. “I’m really motivated to win and love competing even though I actually get really nervous. I put everything into it – I never wing it – and always do my absolute best. I manage my nerves by just taking lots of deep breaths. My best friend Chloe Taylor is always by my side and keeps me where I need to be.”

The reserve championship title went to Dunedin Mascot and Katie Common, while Dunedin McSporran and Christopher Grant landed third place.

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(Image credit: Stephanie Bateman)

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A lifetime in equestrianism: 25 pictures celebrating The Queen’s remarkable affinity with horses

Martha Terry — Fri, 09 Sep 2022 09:25:01 +0000

Queen Elizabeth II may have be the most famous, admired and garlanded person on the planet, but nothing brought out her widest smile quite like the simple pleasure she took in spending time with horses. Whether breeding elite thoroughbreds for the racetrack, visiting the ceremonial horses in the Royal Mews, or enjoying the range of breeds in which she was so invested, horses of all shapes and sizes was her passion.

During this time of quiet reflection, here is a selection of just some of the moments throughout The Queen’s special life with horses, in 25 pictures:

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Birthday girl: Princess Elizabeth photographed with a pony in Windsor Great Park to mark her 13th birthday, on 21 April 1939

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A family hack: The Queen (second from right) rides out with two of her children, Princess Anne (far left) and Prince Charles (foreground), in 1956

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The two sisters: Princess Margaret and Princess Elizabeth with a pony and cart at Windsor in 1944, when the future Queen was 18

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The future Queen, aged 20, cuts an elegant figure on one of her riding horses – she continued to ride for pleasure, and on ceremonial parade, throughout her lifetime

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The Queen on her grey horse Surprise, followed by Lt-Col Dawnay leading members of her house party to the entrance of Ascot racecourse in 1961

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Eight years later, in 1969, The Queen, Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones with a group of others on their way to the racecourse at Ascot. The Queen used to hold a house party at Windsor during the Royal meeting, and her guests would ride along the racecourse before racing began in the afternoon

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Support on the sidelines: The Queen and Prince Philip chat before a polo match at Windsor in 1956, accompanied by Prince Charles and Princess Anne

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The Queen leads in her filly Carrozza, ridden by Lester Piggott, after she won The Oaks in 1957, the year The Queen became champion owner

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And again on the racecourse before Royal Ascot, in 1956. One year, The Queen narrowly avoided a serious accident when she was galloping along the track. The starting tape was down, and she skilfully ducked just at the last minute to avert disaster

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May 1971: Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip on horseback in Windsor Great Park, stopping for a chat. Their son Prince Edward is on the right

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The Queen holds her husband’s polo pony during a break in a match for which he is acting as one of the mounted umpires. The Queen was a big supporter of Prince Philip’s polo career, breeding polo ponies – including one which ended up as Princess Anne’s premier event horse, Doublet

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The Queen aboard Burmese in the Trooping of the Colour parade. Burmese was a mare gifted to The Queen by the Canadian mounted police, and she went on to enjoy riding her in parades for 18 consecutive years until 1986. Many years later, The Queen was given a replica rocking horse of Burmese, whom she listed as one of her favourite horses

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The Queen, Prince Charles, Prince Philip and Princess Anne with the children’s ponies. Princess Anne would go on to become European champion in eventing, while Charles played polo at a high level as well as riding in races as an amateur jockey

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Princess Anne out for a hack with her mother The Queen on the Sandringham estate in Norfolk, in 1979

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The Queen enjoys a quiet moment out hacking out on the Balmoral estate in her signature headscarf, in 1982

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From private ponies to major public moments, horses play their part: Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip drive past Buckingham Palace in the state coach, during her Silver Jubilee, 1977

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The Queen behind the camera: she enjoyed watching and capturing her horses in action as well as riding and being around them herself

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A doting grandmother: The Queen with Prince William and Prince Harry watching a polo match in the Royal Box at Guards Polo Club, Smiths Lawn

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Queen Elizabeth and the Duke of Edinburgh set out from Buckingham Palace in the Gold State Coach for a ceremonial procession to St Paul’s Cathedral as part of the celebrations marking The Queen’s Golden Jubilee in June 2002

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A slice of history: the moment The Queen won the Ascot Gold Cup with Estimate in 2013, the first time a reigning monarch had landed this prestigious race

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The Queen showing her delight in watching her Highland pony Balmoral Gemini compete at Royal Windsor Horse Show in 2014

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The Queen patting her Highland pony Balmoral Melody at Royal Windsor in 2007 in Windsor. Balmoral Melody was the overall in-hand champion and went on to produce this year’s supreme in-hand champion Balmoral Leia

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The Queen paid a visit in 2011 to St John’s Wood Barracks (the final royal visit before the King’s Troop moved to Woolwich), to meet Harlequin, the horse she gave to the King’s Troop

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The Queen riding out in Windsor Great Park. Since her 80s she chose to ride ponies over horses – “closer to the ground”, according to stud groom Terry Pendry. However, she continued riding well into her 90s

LONDON, ENGLAND - UNDATED: NOTE TO EDITORS: MANDATORY CREDIT REQUIRED: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder. This photograph is solely for news editorial use only; no charge should be made for the supply, release or publication of the photograph; no commercial use whatsoever of the photograph (including any use in merchandising, advertising or any other non-editorial use); not for use after Tuesday 31st May 2022 without prior permission from Royal Windsor Horse Show. The photograph must not be digitally enhanced, manipulated or modified in any manner or form and must include all of the individuals in the photograph when published. Handout photo provided by The Royal Windsor Horse Show and released on April 20, 2022 This new portrait of Queen Elizabeth II released by The Royal Windsor Horse Show to mark the occasion of her 96th birthday. Queen Elizabeth II holds her Fell ponies, Bybeck Nightingale (right) and Bybeck Katie. (Photo by henrydallalphotography.com via Getty Images) (Image credit: The Royal Windsor Horse Show via)

The Queen pictured at Windsor in 2022 with two of her favourites – Fell ponies Bybeck Katie and Bybeck Nightingale. This photo was released to mark The Queen’s 96th birthday

Meet the home-bred Highland mare who became The Queen’s fourth Royal Windsor M&M supreme champion

Alex Robinson — Tue, 24 May 2022 15:32:05 +0000

At the 2022 Royal Windsor Horse Show, The Queen was present to watch her home-bred Highland mare, Balmoral Leia, lift the overall Horse & Hound mountain and moorland supreme in-hand championship in front of a packed Castle Arena grandstand crowd.

The delightful five-year-old mare recently featured on H&H’s Royal Windsor special report cover (19 May).

“She is a lovely native pony with every characteristic she should have,” enthused David Puttock, who was tasked with judging the 12 native breed victors in the overall championship held on the second day of Royal Windsor. “The mare was beautifully shown and presented, too.”

Leia, by the late stallion Balmoral Lord and out of former overall Royal Windsor in-hand champion Balmoral Melody, was shown in her class and section championship by her producer Lizzie Briant, but was passed to Henry Hird, champion here last year with Connemara Skargaardens Delicious Love, to take the lead in the Castle Arena final.

“Leia’s sire sadly died of grass sickness, which was a great shame as he was stunning and greatly adored,” explained Lizzie, who had a team of Balmoral ponies at Windsor.

This was the fourth time The Queen’s own breeding has triumphed in this championship; Balmoral Dee posted a victory in the early 1990s, Balmoral Jingle was the 2004 champion and Leia’s dam Balmoral Melody had her turn in 2007.

“Leia is aptly named as she was born on May 4; Star Wars day,” added Lizzie, who hopes Leia will eventually be campaigned as a ridden pony.

The Queen ‘delighted’ to be ringside to see her home-bred Highland stand champion at Royal Windsor

Alex Robinson — Fri, 13 May 2022 12:29:25 +0000

The Queen was present to witness her home-bred Highland mare Balmoral Leia win her class and secure the Royal Windsor Horse Show Highland pony title, before going one better and scoring the Horse & Hound mountain and moorland (M&M) in-hand championship.

Leia, a five-year-old by Balmoral Lord out of Balmoral Melody, was led by her producer Lizzie Briant during her class, but Henry Hird took the lead during the championship.

This was the second year in a row Henry has led the overall M&M champion at Windsor; in 2021 he was in charge of Vanessa Clark’s Connemara mare Skargaardens Delicious Love.

“Her sire sadly died of grass sickness, which was a great shame as he was stunning and greatly adored,” explained Lizzie, who has a team of Balmoral ponies here at Windsor. “We showed her dam, Melody, for several years and she was shown under saddle here at Windsor.”

The Queen sat ringside in her Range Rover during the class and championship, and saw her ponies after their performances, also enjoying a debrief with Lizzie, who has been a long-term producer for Her Majesty.

“Leia is very pretty and feminine,” Lizzie added. “Her Majesty said she is extremely delighted with the win, as we all are. The girls at Balmoral who bred Leia are equally delighted as they love her.”

David Puttock judged the overall championship:

“She is a lovely native pony with every characteristic she should have,” he enthused. “She was shown and presented beautifully, too.”

Reserve was the Kilbey family’s 11-year-old Welsh section A stallion Springbourne Capricorn. The Kilbey’s mare Idyllic Guinevere was also reserve here last year.

“I have judged the section A before and he is a super mover,” added David. “I also liked the Connemara and the Fell, but there were 12 super native ponies in front of me.”

Leia is broken to ride and the hope is she’ll make a ridden prospect.

The Queen’s yearling colt Balmoral Duke, by Balmoral Mandarin, was third in his youngstock class, handled by Henry Hird.

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Double gold medal-winning athlete lands Highland title at Horse of the Year Show

Stephanie Bateman — Wed, 06 Oct 2021 12:03:07 +0000

JUST six weeks after winning double gold in the 100m and 200m at the Masters British National Championships, elite athlete Tracey Milward landed the Highland title at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) 2021.

Riding her own 11-year-old dun stallion Lochlands Gypsy Baron, Tracey pulled off a streamlined show to wow the judges at the partnership’s fourth HOYS together.

“It feels amazing – to come here and win a title at HOYS in the same year as double gold in a different sport is amazing,” said an emotional Tracey. “I’ve bought him here four times and it felt like, if he doesn’t get it now, I don’t think he ever will, so it was a huge relief.”

Tracey has owned the stallion by Whitefield Prince Platinum and out of Lochlands Magic Flute since a six-month-old foal. They qualified at the NPS Summer Championship show.

“Every year, he has qualified in his first three outings no problem, but this year it took me nine qualifiers,” explained Tracey. “Being such a positive person, I didn’t look at it as that he was coming to HOYS having struggled to qualify, instead I looked at it as a good omen for HOYS. It’s what dreams are made of.”

Juggling being an athlete and having a pony on the showing circuit is tough, but Tracey says the pony’s temperament makes life easier.

“He’s amazing at home – my seven-year-old son plays with him and brushes him and he’ll stand quietly for him,” she said. “It is tough doing it on my own, but I make it work.”

The stallion has covered and Tracey has one of his foals from a mare she owns.

“He’s such an amazing pony – I backed him myself and I’m the only person who’s ridden him in the ring,” said Tracey. “Whether he won or not, he’s such a special boy to me.”

Katy Common rode her own Dunedin Mascot into second, while owner/rider Elizabeth Hamilton took third with Mozart of Millfield.

‘He knew he was spectacular’: Farewell to one of the most prolific Highland ponies of all time

Alex Robinson — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 20:31:31 +0000

The Highland pony Stirlingdene has been put down aged 19.

Owned by the Atherden family and ridden by Frazer Atherden during his career, the prolific dun stallion was best known for landing the supreme mountain and moorland (M&M) title followed by the overall pony of the year supreme at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in 2012.

“Stirling” was bred by Scott McGregor out of Dark Maiden Of Kildavie, by Fyfedene.

“He first caught my eye when I saw him as a three-year-old at the Royal Show,” said Frazer. “I ran over to Mum and my twin brother, Dain, and said they just had to come over and see this colt. He was so impressive.”

At the time, Stirling was based with Sean Reed, and Frazer was acquainted with him again later in the season at the National Pony Society (NPS) summer championships.

“I kept going over to his stable; I couldn’t help myself,” he said. “Sean kindly let me show him in a championship and I was hooked. He was a big, strapping stallion and he knew he was something spectacular. Later that year we managed to buy him.”

Frazer and Stirling racked up an incredible tally, which included reserve in the 2008 HOYS M&M championship, reserve in the 2010 Cuddy in-hand final and several Olympia appearances. After his victory at HOYS in 2012, Stirling was retired from the show ring.

“One of my fondest memories was qualifying for Olympia at the NPS summer championships on my 18th birthday,” Frazer said. “Everyone sang ‘happy birthday’ to Dain and I while me and Stirling were pulled forward as champions; there wasn’t a dry eye in sight.

“Stirling was the most amazing ride with light, uphill paces. He could be very cheeky and he knew how handsome he was. But he was always bright and wanted to please.

“HOYS 2012 was amazing for us as a family; it was a feeling like no other. He gave me his all that week. It was a truly amazing way to end a great journey together, at the very top.

“Stirling was always a joy to be around and was a true gent. There won’t be another Stirlingdene.”

Angus the psychic horse predicts England will win Euro 2020 football final

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 10 Jul 2021 06:06:17 +0000

Step aside, Paul the Octopus, there’s a new psychic football score-predicting animal in town, and he says England will win tomorrow’s (11 July) Euro 2020 final.

Highland gelding Angus, who has correctly forecast the result of all but one of England’s games in the tournament so far, has garnered a huge following on BBC Radio Kent, and has had his picture up in lights in London.

The 11-year-old belongs to broadcast journalist Annabel Dry, who has been helping Angus make his predictions, live on the radio, using carrots and country name cards.

“We had a meeting before the Euros and were wondering if there was something we could do locally that was creative and fun,” Annabel told H&H.

“There was a farmer somewhere up north with a pig who was doing predictions and we wondered if there would be someone local doing it, then someone said: ‘You’ve got a horse, why don’t you do it?’ and I thought ‘Why not?’! Angus is very lucky, especially after his operation, so I thought it’ll be a bit of fun, give it a go.”

H&H reported in February that Angus had had surgery to remove his sheath, part of his penis and two large growths, but he is now thriving, and enjoying his mystic duties.

Carnage at the stables as Angus the mystic horse makes his final prediction live on the radio. But did he pick England or Italy?Posted by BBC Radio Kent on Friday, July 9, 2021

“Before each game, I’ve been standing in his field with a microphone, voice recorder and carrots,” Annabel said. “The field’s next to a footpath so people must think I’m mad!”

Annabel said before the first game, against Croatia on 13 June, she had an apple for England and a carrot for Croatia, but she found out he is far more partial to carrots, so the same treat has been on offer in all his predictions since.

“The Germany game is the only one he’s got wrong,” she added. “He loves it, and it’s had such a huge response on the radio; it’s one of the most called and texted about topics, our listeners seem to love him. People keep asking ‘Where’s Angus?’!

“It started as a bit of fun but it’s really taken off, to the point that for the last match, he was chosen as a Euro 2020 hero, and his picture was on a huge screen next to Tower Bridge. He’s got a huge following; I think it’s gone to his head a bit!”

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Horse loses sheath and part of penis after major melanomas found during sheath clean

“He’s so much more than just a horse; he’s everything I work towards and my best friend”

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‘Donkey of Destiny’ predicts World Cup winners

The psychic equine correctly predicted England’s opening victory

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His most important prediction yet, on the outcome of tomorrow’s final against Italy at Wembley, was slightly chaotic, Annabel said, with Angus trying to take some unscheduled diversions en route to the carrot — but he picked the England one straight away.

“It’s been good fun and had such a huge response, we might do it again for the Six Nations,” Annabel said.

She added: “Ever since I was a kid, I wanted my own horse and to get into Horse & Hound; Angus’s two reasons for getting in have been having his penis removed and this — but that still counts, right?!”

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

‘Fantastic opportunity’ for most at-risk rare breeds in new championship classes

Becky Murray — Sat, 29 May 2021 15:27:03 +0000

Rare breeds of the “highest concern” will be recognised at a show with new championship classes aimed at promoting the breeds’ high standards.

For the first time the Norfolk Equestrian Show (28 July) will host Rare Breed Survival Trust watchlist classes, with the highest-placed horses and ponies going on to compete in the RBST championship for priority and at-risk breeds. The classes follow the release of the 2021/2022 RBST watchlist published last month with updated categories; priority, at risk, UK native breeds and Irish breeds in the UK. Previously the categories were critical, endangered, vulnerable, at risk and minority.

Cleveland Bays, Dales, Dartmoors, Eriskays, Exmoors, Hackneys and Suffolk horses appear in the priority category. Clydesdale horses, Fell and Highland ponies, New Forests, and Shires have been classed as at risk.

RBST chief executive Christopher Price told H&H the watchlist classes will give dedicated owners and breeders of rare native horses and ponies the chance to demonstrate their “amazingly high standards”, and show the great potential of the breeds.

“We hope this will also encourage more people to get involved in the work to ensure rare native equine breeds such as Eriskays and Suffolks can thrive long into the future,” he said.

RBST chairman Gale Sprake added that with competitions so severely limited over the last 18 months, the trust is delighted to provide this “fantastic opportunity” to celebrate rare breeds, as well as the people, organisations and communities that support their survival.

“Each of our native pony and horse breeds has its own characteristics, unique features and history and each has played an extraordinary role in our nation’s history,” she said.

“The new RBST priority and at-risk classes at the Norfolk Equestrian Show will really show why they are special.”

Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association chief executive Mark Nicholas said the organisation is “thrilled” to be welcoming competitors.

Continued below…

(Image credit: Linda Trotman)

Seven equine breeds classed as ‘highest concern’ in Rare Breeds Survival Trust watchlist

The 2021/22 watchlist, published this week (8 April), has been updated with new categories: priority, at risk, UK native breeds

(Image credit: Linda Trotman)

Your breed needs you: push to save our rare horses H&H Plus

(Image credit: Linda Trotman)

“We are particularly pleased to be working in partnership with RBST and helping them to promote the importance of breed diversity and survival,” he said.

The show’s organisers hope that holding the “streamlined” show behind closed doors in 2021 will support the planned return of a full Royal Norfolk Show in June 2022. The schedule includes in-hand and ridden classes and retains Horse of the Year Show qualifiers from the cancelled Royal Norfolk Show. Entries close on 30 June.

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

The Queen’s Highland ponies to help raise vital funds for grass sickness

Becky Murray — Mon, 06 Jul 2020 06:03:22 +0000

Highland ponies belonging to The Queen are among those due to star in a charity calendar raising vital funds for and awareness of grass sickness.

Heald Town Highland Pony Stud, owned by Carolyn and Melody Ashcroft, is creating its annual calendar in aid of the Moredun Foundation Equine Grass Sickness Fund (EGSF), for which they raised over £4,200 last year.

The 2021 calendar will feature Heald Town stallions seven-year-old Ghamjon Ernie and four-year-old Glenmuick of Coynach, and some of the stud’s foals. It will also again feature some of The Queen’s Highland ponies from Balmoral Stud, managed by Sylvia Ormiston.

“If lockdown allows, the plan is I will spend five days at Balmoral at the end of the month taking photographs of the ponies in their natural environment and doing the job they were bred to do on the hills,” Melody told H&H.

Heald Town Luna (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Highlands are an absolute pleasure to photograph. Their temperament really comes through, they are so strong and powerful, but such kind ponies with what I would describe as old souls.”

Melody said she was “over the moon” about the amount of money raised last year and was delighted to be supporting the charity again.

“People still don’t know enough about grass sickness, so doing the calendars isn’t just about the money, it’s about raising awareness of the disease and helping people to understand what it is,” she said.

“Last year when the calendars went on sale we had so many people get in touch asking us about the disease and asking for advice so it’s nice to be able to point them to the right people at EGSF for help.”

Melody said grass sickness has a huge impact on so many in the equestrian community. A gelding bred by Melody, Heald Town Drumlin owned by Samantha Kay, was lost to the disease in 2019 and two of Balmoral Stud’s stallions, Lord and Hercules, were put down in 2018.

“We still don’t know what causes it and there are still so many cases that go unreported or unconfirmed,” she said.

Balmoral Archer and Balmoral Sonny (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“After the loss of Drumlin, and the Balmoral ponies, we really wanted to pay tribute to them and give something back by contributing towards finding a cure one day.”

A public vote will decide which photographs will star in the calendar, opening on Heald Town’s Facebook page on 1 August.

“We really like engaging with the public on the calendar. This is the sixth year we’ve done it, the third for EGSF, and people get really excited about it,” said Melody.

“We hope to start selling the calendars on 1 October and they will remain at £12 including postage.”

Article continued below…

(Image credit: Melody Ashcroft)

Joy from sadness: grass sickness survivor welcomes second healthy foal

The Highland mare, who was diagnosed with grass sickness in 2016, overcame losing a filly in 2017

(Image credit: Melody Ashcroft)

Go behind the scenes at The Queen’s Highland pony stud at Balmoral

(Image credit: Melody Ashcroft)

Kate Thomson, of EGSF, said : “I am delighted to work with Melody again on the calendar, last year’s was an incredible success. The Highland pony breed has had some terrible losses to grass sickness, including very valuable breeding stock, and it is fitting that we can work together on this project.

“We hope to soon appoint an ‘equine grass sickness fellow’ to work here at Moredun. The fellow will take a systematic look at all the research done to date to establish exactly what is known to date, and will work with experts across all scientific disciplines to shed new light on the disease. The proceeds from the calendar will be absolutely critical in supporting this new project.

The calendars will be available to buy online from Heald Town Stud and the EGSF website or from Edinburgh’s Royal Dick Vet and the Balmoral Castle gift shop.

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Joy from sadness: grass sickness survivor welcomes second healthy foal

Becky Murray — Thu, 11 Jun 2020 16:27:12 +0000

A Highland pony mare “who chose to fight” grass sickness and overcame losing a filly, has given birth to her second healthy foal since surviving the disease.

Fife-based Jo Jack’s pony Annie (Nighean An Dalaich of Murrayshall) was diagnosed with grass sickness in June 2016 while at stud as a four-year–old.

Jo, who has lost four ponies to grass sickness in 25 years, told H&H her “heart sank” when stud owner Mary McCall Smith called with the news.

“Because I’d lost four to acute and sub-accute grass sickness in the past I assumed there was no chance Annie would survive,” she said.

“Mary’s vet gave her 24 hours, and there were many times you thought that was going to be it, but then she would rally.”

Annie remained at the stud with Mary, while Jo made the three-hour journey to visit when she could.

“We realised very quickly Annie didn’t want hard food and we didn’t want to force her, but we found she still wanted to eat grass. We believe it was Annie who made the decision to survive,” said Jo. “As I wasn’t seeing her every day, I could really see the differences when I did visit, initially this meant I saw her get worse as she lost weight but as I went back I could then see her getting better.

“Mary was fantastic and would let Annie move around fields so she was always getting the grass she wanted, and one day Mary found her pinching her sheep food and we knew she’d turned a corner.”

Jo said Annie lost around 150kg while she was unwell but around nine weeks after her diagnosis, was scanned in foal.

“Mary was having some mares scanned and decided to scan Annie but we never thought there would be an embryo in there after what she’d been through.” she said. “It was shock and I was terrified thinking how we were going to keep enough condition on her.

“I took her home in October and she eventually began enjoying food again. She’s such a fighter, I wondered if she knew she had to eat for her foal.”

Annie foaled on her due date, 29 April 2017, but within 20 minutes of the filly being born, Jo said she noticed something was not right owing to the noise of the filly’s breathing. She was found to have an issue with her soft palate, and after three weeks of treatment was put down.

“It was absolutely heartbreaking, she was so beautiful and Annie was the perfect mother,” said Jo.

“The vet said it could have simply been unlucky, or it could have been something to do with her development when Annie had grass sickness, but we won’t ever know.”

Jo put Annie to stud again that year, and in March 2018 she gave birth to a healthy filly, Saffron – known as Saffy.

“Annie is a very good mum, she isn’t a stressy mare which we think is what helped her during her fight,” she said.

“Saffy has proved to be a real diva, she struts around pretending she’s the boss.”

The following year, Jo agreed to produce a pony belonging to the Munro family of Loandhu Stud and in return she was offered the opportunity for Annie to go to stud. On 8 June 2020 Annie gave birth to a healthy colt, named Rory, by Strathmore Cameron.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“Alan and Carolyn Munro have been absolutely superb, lockdown happened and they’ve done all the hard work. They’ve already had four fillies of their own and have been patiently waiting on Rory arriving,” said Jo.

“Alan has been sending me lots of photos and videos and Rory is already so friendly. I’ve been very lucky to have the support of the whole Munro family, Annie wasn’t the easiest mare to put there, as a grass sickness survivor, but they’ve made sure she had the best grass and taken such good care of her.”

Article continued below…

(Image credit: Alan Munro)

‘He never gave up’: gelding survives grass sickness and returns to ridden work

(Image credit: Alan Munro)

The Queen’s ponies help raise grass sickness research funds after two lost

‘We lost Balmoral Lord and Balmoral Hercules within a fortnight of each other; they were our working breeding stallions –

(Image credit: Alan Munro)

Jo hopes to bring Annie and Rory home once lockdown restrictions allow.

“Every year Annie has been looking better and better, she’s such an accepting mare and if she hadn’t chosen to fight I don’t think she’d still be here,” said Jo.

“I still take each day as it comes, and when people ask what will be next for Annie or for her foals I always say I’ll wait and see what happens next. Losing four to grass sickness and then going through it with Annie has been a great leveller; I don’t like to plan too far ahead and prefer to make small goals because you can be so easily disappointed.”

The Queen’s ponies help raise grass sickness research funds after two lost

Becky Murray — Sat, 10 Aug 2019 06:09:44 +0000

A charity calendar starring some of The Queen’s Highland ponies will go on sale to raise funds for grass sickness.

Heald Town Highland Pony Stud, owned by Carolyn and Melody Ashcroft, is creating its annual charity calendar to raise funds for the Moredun Foundation Equine Grass Sickness Fund, for which it raised £1,500 last year.

Melody, who took the photographs for the calendar, told H&H: “We started the calendar five years ago and have previously supported other animal charities. I work with the Highland Pony Enthusiasts Club and grass sickness is something we are very passionate about so we decided to support it last year.”

Heald Town Rafiki and Heald Town Duchess (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Two months of the calendar will feature photographs of the Queen’s Highland ponies from Balmoral Estate, managed by Sylvia Ormiston. The estate lost two stallions in May 2018 to grass sickness; four-year-old Balmoral Lord and five-year-old Balmoral Hercules.

“One of our former ponies, Heald Town Bonny owned by Mr and Mrs McMillan, went to Balmoral to be covered by Balmoral Lord but he came down with grass sickness before covering her. She was instead covered by Balmoral Hercules only for him to sadly come down with grass sickness days later,” said Melody.

“Sylvia is very passionate about the breed and to be able to photograph the ponies at Balmoral was really lovely. The temperaments of the Balmoral ponies were absolutely impeccable.”

Sylvia told H&H the Queen’s ponies featuring in the calendar was a “fitting tribute” to Lord and Hercules.

“The calendar is for a tremendous cause. We lost Lord and Hercules within a fortnight of each other; they were our working breeding stallions – in one swoop we lost our 10-year breeding plan. It doesn’t matter who you are, the disease can affect you,” she said.

“Lord and Hercules’ legacy will continue through their youngstock. They were in the process of breeding last year when we lost them so luckily we have a Lord filly and two Hercules colts born this year. We’re very lucky to have their children.”

Article continues below…

(Image credit: Melody Ashcroft)

The Highland pony: the tough working ponies who can shine in the show ring or in the hills

Find out more about this British native breed

(Image credit: Melody Ashcroft)

Go behind the scenes at The Queen’s Highland pony stud at Balmoral

(Image credit: Melody Ashcroft)

Melody added the disease is very close to her heart after the loss of one of Heald Town Highland Pony Stud’s homebred ponies, Heald Town Drumlin owned by Samantha Kay, this year.

“It is such a horrible disease, we need to do as much as we can to help raise awareness. We want to shout about it from the rooftops and encourage people to raise funds for the charity,” said Melody.

The calendars will cost £12 and will also feature ponies from the stud. Fans can vote on which pictures will be included by voting on the stud’s Facebook page. Voting runs from 1 August until mid-September and the calendars will be available to buy from 1 October.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

The Highland pony: the tough working ponies who can shine in the show ring or in the hills

Alex Robinson — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 12:25:36 +0000

The Highland pony was originally bred in parts of Scotland and on the Western Isles but there are now studs located throughout Scotland, England, Wales, Europe and across the rest of the word.

The Highland Pony is one of the two native breeds of the Scottish Highlands and Islands (as well as the Shetland). Over many centuries, the breed has become adaptable to the severe conditions and climates experienced in the areas. The Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) recognises the breed as in a vulnerable state at present.

The Highland should not exceed 14.2hh and is ideally no smaller than 13hh.

The Highland Pony Society (HPS) provides the following breed description:

The Highland Pony is a strong, well-balanced, compact pony with all its features being in proportion to its height. It is one of the largest of the British native breeds and should show substance and strength.

Head: Well carried and alert with kindly eye. Broad muzzled with a deep jowl.

Neck and shoulders: Reasonable length of neck from wither with a good sloping shoulder and well placed forearm.

Body: Well balanced and compact with plenty of room for heart and lungs. Ribs well sprung.

Quarters and hindlegs: Powerful quarters with well developed thigh, strong second thigh and clean flat hocks.

Legs: Flat hard bone, broad knees, short cannon bones, oblique pasterns and well shaped broad dark hoofs. Feather soft and silky.

Mane and tail: Hair should be natural, flowing and untrimmed with a full tail.

Stallions with white markings other than a small star are not eligible for licensing.

The Highland is to move with a straight action which is free moving without undue knee action.

In an article, breeder Gillian McMurray states that:

“There should not be high knee action, neither should the pony ‘daisy cut’. The pony is expected to move at a workmanlike pace and cover the ground at walk with the hind hoof at least tracking up with the front one.”

The breed is known for being a ride, drive and pack animal which can carry weight (in accordance to suitable limits) and adapt to many equestrian disciplines.

According to the International Museum of the Horse, few relevant early records exist for the Highlands of Scotland: “It is not certain if wild horses spread into Scotland after the retreat of the last glaciers around 10,000 years ago, or if the first ones were brought with prehistoric settlers. In any case, horses were present in Scotland by at least the 8th century BC. The horses/ponies used in Pictish times (about 550-800AD) in East and Northern Scotland, and shown on their carved stones, presumably passed on genetic input to today’s Highland pony.

“We find Highland ponies described in the first travel accounts and agricultural surveys in the 18th century. The ponies then were smaller due to the harsh conditions under which they lived. Most present-day Highland pony bloodlines are traceable back to the 1830s.”

“For the last 170 years Highland ponies have been the main means of transporting deer and other game off the hill, using special pack saddles, as well as many other jobs on the Scottish sporting estates.”

Today, the Highland is still used for its traditional job but is an equally popular family pony for riding and driving. Many are capable jumpers and can also perform well during long distance rides.

In the show ring, Highland ponies are increasingly popular and hold their own in mixed competition. In 2018, the stallion Melanie Stanford’s Benbreac Of Crolia became the first ever native pony to land the supreme accolade at the Royal International Horse Show.

Highland ponies have their own breed final at the Horse of the Year Show. In 2012, the dun stallion Stirlingdene and Frazer Atherden won the supreme pony of the year title and Highlands have also won the Olympia Mountain and Moorland ridden final on numerous occasions.

Benbreac Of Crolia was the 2018 RIHS supreme pony, becoming the first native to land the title (Image credit: Peter Nixon)

Her Majesty The Queen is known for her love of the breed. Her Majesty is a patron of the society and has a large working stud of Highland ponies, breeding under the Balmoral prefix.

The HPS states that: “During the season, sixteen ponies work over the various beats carrying stags and hinds and panniers for the grouse days. Working Highland ponies also take visitors to enjoy trekking on the estate. The Balmoral Stud goes from strength to strength and has recently been using Ulleam of Croila with their broad-based line of mares.”

The strength and sound temperament of Highland ponies make them good work horses and they are still used in areas inaccessible to machines, such as in logging or to extract deer carcases from the hill.

Balmoral Ulleam tacked up with a deer saddle. (Image credit: Picture by Jim Crichton)

The Highland Pony Enthusiasts Club says that the fact that Highlands perform well in comparatively slow work such as trekking, forestry and deer-carrying suggests that they have a calm, steady temperament: “This makes them outstandingly suitable for the nervous or elderly, and they have also been used successfully as mounts for disabled riders, all of whom appreciate their confidence-giving attributes. However, it must not be thought that, because they are kind and reliable, they are also dull. For many a Highland has shown itself to be a keen, active ride in the hunting field and, correctly schooled, to be able to compete with great success in Pony Club and Riding Club activities — making up by sure-footedness and handiness what it may lack in outright speed. With the present revival in harness work both for showing and for pleasure, the ponies are once more proving their worth in this field also. Safe, reliable, friendly, a good, comfortable ride, constitutionally strong and hardy, attractive to look at, and with considerably more versatility than is generally appreciated, the Highland pony has so much to offer.”

For all the latest equestrian news and reports, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday.

Highland pony clears 1.35m on fun ride

Becky Murray — Thu, 06 Sep 2018 17:30:01 +0000

A Highland pony has demonstrated that the native breed can be talented jumpers by clearing a 1.35m brush fence during a fun ride.

Emily Hillier, 14, and her 13.3hh 10-year-old Highland mare Brownbread Mary Mouse, took part in the Battlefield fun ride at Albrighton Estate, Shrewsbury on Sunday (2 September).

Emily told H&H: “At the ride she was quite excited – she loved it.

“There were four fences leading up to the final big brush fence, they went up from 85cm to 1.05m. I was following a friend’s pony and I just hoped for the best! She started neighing as we were coming up to it – I thought ‘oh my god she’s not going to jump it’, but bless her she did. She jumped really well.”

Mary Mouse was one of the smallest ponies tackling the big brush fence.

“Some of the big hunters were struggling to get over the jump – it was the biggest on the course,” said Emily.

Emily has been riding for five years and has owned Mary Mouse for four-and-a-half years.

“I started riding Mary Mouse at a riding school before we bought her and I needed a lot of leg to get her going – she hadn’t been in work for very long before we bought her,” she said. “I’ve spent a lot of time training her, but she is not a naturally forward ride.

(Image credit: marthalilyphotography.co.uk)

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“I’ve got a 14.2hh pony that I compete in British Showjumping but with Mary Mouse I only do unaffiliated up to 90cm – that’s about her limit showjumping. The fun ride was pretty incredible for her, she was just so good jumping those big fences and really enjoyed herself.

“We’ve got some more fun rides coming up so I hope we can keep it up.”

This is the second Highland pony in recent weeks to be seen showing off its jumping ability. Susan Chappelhow-Lacey secured a place in the BE90 Mitsubishi Motors Cup at Badminton next year by coming fifth on Sophie Beaumont’s 14hh Glenmore of Roisbheinn at the Skipton regional final on 4 August.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Go behind the scenes at The Queen’s Highland pony stud at Balmoral

Horse & Hound — Sat, 18 Nov 2017 17:18:09 +0000

In this week’s Royal special issue of Horse & Hound magazine (16 November 2017), Melanie Scott gets given an exclusive tour of The Queen's Highland pony stud at Balmoral Castle. Here’s a sneak peek...

This line up of ponies (from the left: Balmoral Pageant, Blamoral Beacon, Sunblush of Gaick, Blamoral Serene and Balmoral Brave) are oblivious to their paddock's backdrop — and the owner that might be enjoying watching them graze...

The team have prepared the haynets for when the ponies come off the hill, having dropped the deer off to the larder area

The office is a hub of activity for the admin that needs to be done for the Highlands, all of which are bred to work on the estate as a priority

There are only a few stables on the farm steading, which are rarely used — instead there is a covered tying-up area where the ponies are prepared for their work

The working ponies wear a specifically designed deer saddle while working out on the hill

The team is led by Sylvia Ormiston, the estate stud manager, who has had the job here for 10 years

Sylvia shares a moment with the foal Balmoral Bonnie

The stud may be the domain of The Queen, but it is kitted out with all the necessary modern facilities for a slick-running operation

On the day of H&H's visit the main stable block is a hive of activity with ponies and ghillies preparing for a day out on the hill

The working tack room for the hill ponies is packed with kit. The deer saddle is based on a pre-World War One pack saddle which is hinged at the wither and cantle to allow it to fit a variety of ponies

Balmoral Ulleam (William) is tacked up with the deer saddle

Jordan Headspeath with Balmoral Lossie and Balmoral Bonnie

Watch trainer cross Scotland with unbroken Highland ponies on BBC One

Rachael Turner — Tue, 10 Jan 2017 18:14:48 +0000

Footage from a daring equine adventure will be shown on BBC’s The One Show tomorrow evening (Wednesday, 11 January).

Trainer Emma Massingale travelled across the Scottish Highlands last September with two three-year-old Highland ponies, Hector and Hewie, who she purchased just before the trip.

Emma planned to develop a bond with Hector and Hewie across the 61-mile route from Alness to Ullapool with the ultimate goal of backing them for the first time.

The “Highland Adventure” followed Emma’s “Island Challenge” which involved her backing previously unhandled Connemaras on a remote island in 2015.

“I wanted to work with another native breed in their native area and it seemed only fitting to take Highland ponies to the Scottish Highlands,” Emma told H&H.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Planning the route

Prior to the trip, Emma monitored the behaviour of her Connemara herd at home using a electronic trackers.

She discovered the times when the ponies were more active and with this data she planned her route across the Highlands.

“It gave me an insight into what ponies naturally do so I could plan a route based on that,” Emma said.

“We would set off at about 3-4am each day to mimic what the Connemaras did.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Emma covered six miles a day and slept in a bivvy bag at night, a small, lightweight and waterproof shelter, with the ponies by her side.

“The environment was really hard and the midges were horrendous — my face looked like I had measles within a day,” Emma said.

“Ticks were really bad too.”

For the first three nights the ponies wore head collars and were tied up.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“I was amazed how stubborn they were,” Emma said.

“I was also quite surprised how nervous they were, much more frightened than the Connemaras who have that instant love for humans.

“At first every time I put my rucksack down they would run off and when a logging lorry came I had to disappear off the track as they were frightened — that was quite tricky.

“It was a bit like being a taxi driver and having two best mates in the back completely doing their own thing.”

Pairing up

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Emma realised she needed to change the ponies behaviour to progress with their training.

“I decided I would pick one and pair up with them. I would do things like stopping and offering him water first to try to split them up a bit,” she said.

“I chose Hector and after about one day he realised I was on his side. By the fifth day I was able to ride him.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“He went from feeling frightened to feeling like a horse that had been ridden all his life — on the first ride we were able to go through a big river.

“They were just fantastic. You can see exactly why they’re made for their area with their broad chests designed for getting them out of bogs and across the terrain.”

In time, both ponies could be left loose overnight and kept close to Emma’s side.

“They were in tens of thousands of acres and could have gone anywhere,” she said.

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“One night I couldn’t see them and went to try to find them only to find them back where I had left waiting for me.

“Another night I lit a fire and the ponies lay the other side opposite me.”

The Highland Challenge will be shown on The One Show from 7pm.

Native ponies: what were they bred for?

Aimi Clark — Thu, 11 Feb 2016 08:25:41 +0000

Knowing what your native pony was bred for will enable you to show them off correctly in the show ring. From a fast but smooth walk perfect for ploughing fields or carrying large loads over great distances, to ground-covering trots ideal for shepherding sheep and hunting wolves, this is what native breeds were used for in bygone years:

Shetlands

Small but hardy, Shetland ponies were commonly used to transport peat from the bogs and seaweed to fertilise fields. Some also became pit ponies, or were used as pack animals.

Highlands

Highlands were bred to work on farms in their native Scotland. From carrying deer and game off the hills, to transporting timber and ploughing fields — these sturdy ponies are capable of hard, heavy work.

Fell

Native to the North of England, Fell ponies were used by the Vikings to plough and pull sledges, as well as for riding and pack work. Their fast but comfortable walk made them ideal for carrying anything from material and food to local metal ores. Fells were also used for shepherding and hunting wolves to protect the flock.

Modern Fell ponies are renowned for their ground-covering trot, and have been used for trotting races in the past.

Dartmoor

Native to Devon and recorded as living on Dartmoor since the Middle Ages, this breed’s metabolism enables them to survive in tough conditions, ideal for working in the mines, carrying large loads as a pack animal and shepherding sheep. Their temperament made the ponies a popular ride, as they are today.

Exmoor

This breed dates back to when the Celts settled in Britain. The ponies were tamed and broken to pull chariots, as well as being ridden, used as pack animals and ploughing the land.

Welsh ponies

Section A: The smallest of the Welsh mountain ponies were useful for shepherding sheep, mining and riding, as well as being pack animals.

Section B: These ponies were also intended for pulling carts and carriages.

Sections C and D: All of the above, plus useful for farm work. Welsh mountain ponies could also be seen driving cattle.

Dales

Known for strength, hardiness, courage and stamina, the Dales pony has strong mining links. Evolved from the Scotch Galloway pack animal, the breed was used to transport lead, coal and ore from the mines of North Yorkshire, Teesside and Tyneside to the ports on the coast.

Dales ponies are capable of carrying heavy loads over long distances, and were also driven, ridden and used for farm work.

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Connemara

This compact, surefooted and intelligent breed stands on short legs but covers a lot of ground. Still popular for riding with adults and children alike, the attributes of a Connemara has made them ideal for farm work and driving for years.

New Forest

Having roamed the New Forest, Hampshire, since the end of the last Ice Age, these fast and sure-footed ponies have been a popular riding choice for centuries. History shows them being used to carry large weights over long distances, plus hunting and farm work.

First winner of new stalking pony title

Amy Mathieson — Sat, 20 Jul 2013 12:00:09 +0000

A six-year-old Highland pony has won the inaugural award for working stalking ponies at the Scottish Game Fair.

Victor Of Alltnacailleach, from the Garrogie Estate, Inverness-shire, with his ghillie (attendant) Christina Ellis, claimed the Fred Taylor Memorial Trophy at Scone Palace, Perthshire (7 July).

Highland ponies take stags off the hill and the dead weight can be up to 20st.

Ten ponies were judged on their turnout by Peter Fraser, former head stalker on Invercauld Estate, who said he was “very impressed” with the standard.

The ponies came from The Queen’s Balmoral Estate, Blair Castle, Garrogie, Invermark, Kinlochuichart, Tulchan of Glenisla and Reay Forest. But Victor came out on top.

Organisers hope the competition will become an annual event.

“This was a wonderful spectacle,” said Adam Smith of the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust Scotland.

“We have never had 10 ponies in our main ring before, all kitted out for the hill, all with stalkers and ghillies looking superb. Working ponies are still very much a part of game management in Scotland today.”

Fred Taylor was the head stalker on Invermark Estate, Angus, for over 20 years. He died from cancer last year.

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound magazine (18 July 2013)

Free-range Highland ponies penned

Horse & Hound — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 15:57:57 +0000

Three Highland ponies that carry deer carcasses on a remote Scottish peninsula are to have their wandering privileges curtailed.

The ponies have roamed free ever since the small enclosure they lived in during the stalking season fell in to disrepair.

But now a new £5,000 enclosure, in part paid for by a £2,292 grant from the John Muir Trust, will be built on the Knoydart Foundation, Inverness-shire, to house them.

Head stalker Jim Brown said: “The ponies are an integral part of our deer management operation, allowing us to extract deer carcasses from some of the most remote parts of the peninsula. To do this without them would require the use of all terrain vehicles [ATVs], which would detract from the wild quality of the area.”

The free-range ponies have been known to disappear into forests on the 7,000ha estate.

Mike Daniels of the John Muir Trust said: “We want to make sure that people living in remote communities are able to live sustainably and we support projects that benefit the local community and environment.

“The Knoydart Foundation sets a great example by using ponies for deer extraction, which are more environmentally sustainable than ATVs.”

This news story was first published in the current issue of Horse & Hound (8 September, 2011)

Abandoned calf being raised by Highland pony in Scotland

Horse & Hound — Fri, 01 Jul 2011 15:44:39 +0000

A calf is being fostered by a Highland pony after being separated from its mother.

Ella, who is a Charolais cross, is being hand-reared by crofter Donna Maclennan with the help of 22-year-old pony Katie.

“Ella follows Katie everywhere and thinks she is her mum,” said Inverness-based Donna. “They hate to be separated and when Ella is taken out of the field for feeding, the pair of them can’t wait to be reunited.”

Ella was separated from her birth mum as she was a twin and Donna was concerned that the cow wouldn’t be able to cope.

Highland stallion is crowned M&M champion at Olympia

Horse & Hound — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 10:57:12 +0000

JUDGES Alan Robertson (ride) and Sue Hide (conformation) awarded the 2008 NPS Baileys Mountain and Moorland Supreme Ridden Championship at Olympia to Melanie Stanford’s nine-year-old Highland stallion, Torrin Of Croila, ridden by Mathew Lawrence.

Bred in Scotland, by Cameron Ormiston, Torrin is the fifth Highland to win this most prestigious of M&M ridden titles since its inception in 1978. His sire, Cameron’s Colin Of Knick Tom Wittensee, was also a former Olympia qualifier.

Conformation judge Sue Hide, said “The champion was a very free-moving pony — something I like — and beautifully produced. He is a different type of Highland, but very good of his type. I liked him a lot.

“Generally, the standard was very high and a great thrill for anyone coming here, and a great thrill for me to judge it.”

Reserve to Torrin was Edwina Waller’s Welsh section A stallion, Delami Destiny, ridden by Katy Marriott-Payne. Destiny, who qualified at the NPS Spring Festival, is in his second season under saddle and was third at Olympia in 2007, taking the best small breed and best owner-bred titles. Also a big winner in-hand, the stallion is siring many winners.

In third was Gill Simpson’s Dales gelding, Kilmannan Black Wizard, bred by Bill Ireland, by Slaypits Black Magic out of Trimdon Black Velvet. In a great year, Black Wizard also qualified for the Royal International and Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).

Charlene Richardson’s owner-ridden Welsh cob mare, Drumacre Lloer Solo (Llanarth Solo-Botvyle April Moon) took fourth spot. Known as “Anthea” at home, the mare was making her third Olympia appearance and has been best of breed each time. She has also been placed at HOYS four times.

Standing fifth was Lickfolds Snowstorm (Shilstone Rocks Snowman-Shilstone Rocks Sweetheart), the first grey Dartmoor to qualify for the Olympia final. Another pony enjoying a hugely successful season, Snowstorm has been supreme at two breeds shows, champion at Devon Country and the Dartmoor, Exmoor, and Shetland pony of the year.

Bred on Dartmoor, Snowstorm is hunted regularly with the Silverton Foxhounds near Exeter. He is owned by the Newbery and Lampard families.

Sixth place went to the Dales, Castlehill Flash (Stoneriggs Alick-Castlehill Beauty), who qualified at the breed show for the third successive year, ridden by Dain Atherden. In 2007, “Hairy”, as he is known at home, was best of breed and reserve champion at the RIHS.

Don’t miss Horse & Hound’s full reports on all the action from Olympia

The Queen expands Highland Pony stud

Horse & Hound — Fri, 16 Mar 2007 12:12:19 +0000

The Queen is expanding her well-established Highland Pony stud at Balmoral this summer.

In early June, Her Majesty’s eight broodmares will be transferred to her Scottish residence from their present home at Hampton Court. Young stock will move to Balmoral at a later date, while The Queen’s two home-bred Highland stallions will remain at Clive and Penny Smith’s Nash End Stud in Gloucestershire.

Catriona McArdle, a former Highland Pony Society president and the co-founder of Denmill Highland Stud, has been appointed Balmoral’s stud management consultant. A vacancy currently exists for a yard manager. Click here for further details >>

Her Majesty also owns some Fell pony stock and it is hoped that in time they will be moved from England to Balmoral to form part of a native pony stud.

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound (15 March, ’07)

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The ponies moved to Balmoral in 2007, to work on the 64,000-acre estate as well as for the breeding programme. The Queen was very much involved with the ponies; she would visit the stud every time she was at the castle, and was interested in their success in the show ring.

“Historically the royal Highland pony breeding programme has been based at Hampton Court Palace,” the Balmoral spokesman said.

“In 2007 a small programme was opened on the Balmoral Estate. Breeding will now be consolidated back to Hampton Court Palace; during this period of transition the Royal Household is in consultation with staff who will be affected by the change.”

It is not known how many jobs will be affected. The stud has been managed since 2007 by Sylvia Ormiston, whose husband is the farm manager.

It is thought there are about 40 ponies at the stud, and the castle is also home to Highland cattle and Cheviot sheep.

The Balmoral spokesman said: “We are in a process of consultation and cannot comment further at the present time.”

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Pony display team gives impromptu M40 concert to relieve traffic boredom

Erik Mackechnie-Guire, who has been a judge for over 20 years and was approached by the society to put on the music and choreograph the display, also took three generations of home-bred Highlands for the display. Their 22-mile journey to the NEC from Moreton Morrell took three hours.

“We were due to be there for a practice and were worried it wouldn’t happen,” he told H&H.

“So they did an impromptu busk on the roadside to work out the start and finish. It broke up the sitting still for two and a half hours! People got out of their cars to video and join in, and some people were dancing.”

Erik said once the traffic started moving, there was “a rush to get the drums in and get going”.

This culmination at HOYS featured ponies under saddle, driving and working, “highlighting the versatility that the Highland breed is well known for”.

“It was superb,” Eric said. “The crowd really got behind us, and it definitely made up for the journey.”

Erik’s niece Mia Goodge, who plays the tenor drum in the Fife Police Pipe Band which was placed at the World Pipe Band Championships this year, added: “[Pipers] Finn and Bertie and I had one practice a couple of weeks ago. I love stuff like that, playing anywhere I can; any sort of attention!

“The ponies were super, absolutely brilliant.”

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‘He was absolutely foot-perfect for me’: Highland stallion reigns on his first HOYS visit

Marksman, a former H&H one to watch, was bought directly from his breeders, Kate Dykes and her late husband John Dykes.

Marksman’s in-hand tally includes the Highland Pony Society breed show supreme title. On his ridden CV is this year’s NPS summer championships reserve supreme British Isles ridden title and he was also a RIHS finalist.

“Me and my mum, Claire Thorpe, flew to Scotland to view him, which was quite an ordeal as Mum hates flying,” said Amber, when recalling how the impressive steel grey came to join her team. “John and Kate picked us up from the airport and as soon as we saw him we loved him and bought him.”

Amber was understandably shocked to win her first-ever HOYS final: “I couldn’t stop crying. He was absolutely foot-perfect for me today.

“He is an absolute gentleman in every way possible. He stood like a rock and was falling asleep in the line-up, as happy as anything. This is an absolute dream.”

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Snowy was bred by Scott McGregor and he was bought by the Briants as a four-year-old.

Snowy debuted in the show ring as a six-year-old and he was successful on several occasions, winning multiple novice classes. He qualified for Olympia on his first attempt the following year. At the final in December he was crowned best of breed before scooping the supreme title.

“He was always a bouncy ride and I can remember the ride judge at Olympia [Jackie Beatham] saying that he looked so fresh and happy for how late it was in the season,” recalled Lizzie. “He was pretty gobsmacked by the atmosphere, but he went amazingly well and he did a great show.”

Snowy, a winner of the Glyn Greenwood in-hand supreme at the Ponies (UK) championships in 2004, was also a consistent breeding stallion. He is the sire of former Royal Highland breed supreme Heather of Conway.

“We are all devastated by his passing, but we feel lucky that he was fit and well right up until he was 30 years old. He never had a sick or sorry day in his life.”

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Beth added that she had told Lexi she could take her oxygen into the ring with her.

“I said Brian wouldn’t mind but she was determined she was going in without it,” Beth said. “She seemed happy, and that’s what matters.

Lexi’s mother Danielle told H&H it was a “fantastic” day, with more memories made.

“It made me feel proud, and emotional,” she said. “We’ve put the rosettes up by her hospital bed at home and she’s so proud of them.”

Danielle added that Lexi was excited before the show, adding: “She couldn’t wait to see Brian! She absolutely loves him.

“The show was so special; all the kind, lovely people coming together, everyone clapping for her. It was perfect.”

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“I’ve had him since he was a foal,” said Tracey who is also six-time British National Masters sprint champion. “He’s only done three shows this year and won at Great Yorkshire show. He’s a pony that’ll stay with me forever.”

A breeding stallion, Gypsy Baron has numerous foals on the ground.

“I’ve got a few of his foals at home with me because I’m breeding now, too,” said Tracey. “He’s a very special boy and his foals carry his beautiful temperament.”

With no arena at her disposal, Tracey uses her local countryside to school Gypsy Baron.

“I hack out over the moors because I don’t have a school at home, so that’s how I get him fit,” she said. “My little boy rides him and he’s so calm and really takes care of him.”

Being a professional athlete and producing top flight show ponies successfully is not an easy task, but it’s one that Tracey relishes.

The reserve championship title went to Dunedin Mascot and Katie Common, while Dunedin McSporran and Christopher Grant landed third place.

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“She is a lovely native pony with every characteristic she should have,” enthused David Puttock, who was tasked with judging the 12 native breed victors in the overall championship held on the second day of Royal Windsor. “The mare was beautifully shown and presented, too.”

This was the fourth time The Queen’s own breeding has triumphed in this championship; Balmoral Dee posted a victory in the early 1990s, Balmoral Jingle was the 2004 champion and Leia’s dam Balmoral Melody had her turn in 2007.

“Leia is aptly named as she was born on May 4; Star Wars day,” added Lizzie, who hopes Leia will eventually be campaigned as a ridden pony.

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“It feels amazing – to come here and win a title at HOYS in the same year as double gold in a different sport is amazing,” said an emotional Tracey. “I’ve bought him here four times and it felt like, if he doesn’t get it now, I don’t think he ever will, so it was a huge relief.”

Tracey has owned the stallion by Whitefield Prince Platinum and out of Lochlands Magic Flute since a six-month-old foal. They qualified at the NPS Summer Championship show.

Juggling being an athlete and having a pony on the showing circuit is tough, but Tracey says the pony’s temperament makes life easier.

“He’s amazing at home – my seven-year-old son plays with him and brushes him and he’ll stand quietly for him,” she said. “It is tough doing it on my own, but I make it work.”

The stallion has covered and Tracey has one of his foals from a mare she owns.

“He’s such an amazing pony – I backed him myself and I’m the only person who’s ridden him in the ring,” said Tracey. “Whether he won or not, he’s such a special boy to me.”

Katy Common rode her own Dunedin Mascot into second, while owner/rider Elizabeth Hamilton took third with Mozart of Millfield.

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