Latest from Horse & Hound in The-king

‘An absolute privilege’: equestrians recognised for ‘extraordinary contributions’ by The King

Becky Murray — Wed, 24 Jun 2026 15:59:14 +0000

Members of the equestrian community who have gone above and beyond in their sectors have been recognised in the The King’s Birthday Honours list.

A riding school yard manager, Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) volunteers and a top jockey are among those named in the honours, which “mark the extraordinary contributions and service of people across the UK”.

Tower Farm Riding School yard manager Debbie Henderson was appointed MBE for services to equestrianism and the community of Edinburgh and the south of Scotland.

Debbie grew up riding at Tower Farm, Edinburgh, then went to work at the Royal Mews in London as a groom. She returned to work at Tower Farm in 1987 and has been there since, teaching generations to ride.

Debbie and Tower Farm are involved in a variety of parades, including the People’s Procession, the Edinburgh Riding of the Marches and the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, providing horses for the Army and members of the royal family to ride.

Debbie, who was nominated by the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, told H&H the MBE “is something you never expect”.

“I had no idea I’d been put forward,” she said. “Horses are such nice characters and I just enjoy helping people to enjoy them. From the little four-year-olds coming for their weekly fix to teaching the Lord Provost, to see them all enjoying it, it’s been amazing.”

RDA volunteer Doug Smith and South Bucks RDA group chair Di Redfern were appointed MBEs for services to disabled riders.

Doug is a former mounted police officer but his career was cut short by a double spinal fracture in 1995. He has since dedicated more than 35 years to the RDA; playing “a key role in shaping” the charity’s national championships, contributing to national steering groups and championing equine welfare.

“To receive this award for doing something I love, and that is also so worthwhile, is an absolute privilege,” said Doug, who is also a big supporter of para equestrian sport.

“RDA was my salvation after my accident, and I have found great purpose in giving back, sharing what is possible and helping others discover what they can achieve.”

Di has volunteered with the RDA since the 1960s. She has made a “lasting contribution” to the South Bucks group and wider RDA movement alongside significant contribution to the development of para equestrian sport. Her work has focused on ensuring disabled people can access the “highest quality coaching and support, carefully tailored to their individual needs”.

“I am honoured to receive an MBE and would like to thank everyone associated with South Bucks RDA and RDA UK. The work we do is a true team effort,” she said.

RDA UK chief executive Michael Bishop said the charity is delighted to see the “outstanding” recognitions and that Doug and Di’s commitment to the RDA has made a “lasting difference to disabled people”.

“We offer our warmest congratulations,” he said.

Ryan Moore appointed MBE in The King’s Birthday Honours list

Three-time British champion Flat jockey Ryan Moore was appointed MBE for services to racing and British sport. Trainer Aidan O’Brien told At The Races “nobody deserves it more”.

“It’s very special. I’m delighted for him and all his family,” said Aidan.

Lanwades Stud owner Kirsten Rausing, founder of the Alborada Trust that funds medical and veterinary causes, was appointed CBE for services to charity, animal welfare, horseracing and bloodstock. Former Downpatrick racecourse manager Richard Lyttle was appointed MBE for services to the racing industry and Angela Tattersall of St John Ambulance, who has worked at York racecourse for almost 50 years, was appointed MBE for her services to the charity.

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(Image credit: Tower Farm)

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‘The brightest spark I’ve ever trained’: Hickstead championship for horse bred by The late Queen, owned by The King

Bethan Simons — Mon, 22 Jun 2026 16:47:52 +0000

Katie Jerram Hunnable and The King’s “phenomenal” First Receiver added another title to their incredible tally: the 2026 Hickstead Derby Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) champion sash.

“He was absolutely on song,” said Katie. “He didn’t put a foot out of place the whole time he was in the ring – there wasn’t a moment that he wasn’t on form.”

This is the second time that Katie has lifted this title.

“I won for the first time on Barbers Shop for Her late Majesty The Queen, bred by the late Queen Mother, which was very, very special,” Katie said, “And then today I won on First Receiver, bred by The late Queen and this time owned by The King.

“He was reserve champion last year and he went that one bit better this year, which was my dream.”

Now nine years old, “Firsty” and Katie have amassed an enviable tally, topped off by the 2026 Hickstead Derby RoR champion title.

“He’s amazing. He’s done the grand slam. He’s won at Horse of the Year Show, won the novices and opens and stood champion at Aintree and now he’s won here. He’s also been Royal Windsor champion twice under saddle, and three times in hand.

“I’m looking forward to seeing what he can achieve as a riding horse, but would love for him to go supreme at Aintree as a former racehorse. It’s one more box I’d love to tick with him.”

Katie went on to explain that Firsty needs careful production on account of his intelligence.

“He’s the most intelligent horse I have ever had. All thoroughbreds are intelligent, but he’s super-intelligent and comes from a very intelligent family. You have to make sure you don’t do anything wrong as he won’t forgive you. He’s the brightest spark I’ve ever trained.”

Giving his owner-rider a special early birthday present was Tori Thomas’ Wonga Swinger, Tattersalls RoR amateur ridden show series champion here for the third time.

The multi-garlanded duo are also former HOYS winners and reigning RoR ridden champions at Royal Windsor. They have also stepped successfully into the riding horse ranks, having won the amateur riding horses at the Royal International Horse Show last term, and recently booked a return pass to HOYS in the large riding horse division at Royal Three Counties show.

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‘Proud moment’ as The King and Queen confirm plans to attend The Derby at Epsom

Lucy Elder — Sat, 30 May 2026 08:02:01 +0000

The King and Queen will attend the Betfred Derby at Epsom Downs next weekend (6 June) to watch the 247th running of the British Classic.

Epsom’s general manager Jim Allen said the racecourse is “honoured and thrilled” that the King and Queen will be there on Derby day.

“Their Majesties show great enthusiasm, interest and support for horseracing in the UK and their attendance next week will be a proud moment for all of the team here and everyone connected with the racecourse,” he said.

“Derby day provides joy and entertainment to millions of people around the world as one of Britain’s most famous and iconic events, and royal attendance has been synonymous with the meeting for generations. We are delighted that Their Majesties will be continuing this tradition next week.”

The King and Queen are both honorary members of The Jockey Club, which owns Epsom Downs racecourse, and became the organisation’s joint patrons in May 2024.

Their visit continues a tradition of royal attendance. The late Queen only missed two editions of the famous race from the start of her reign until the Covid pandemic, in 1956 when on a state visit to Sweden, and in 1984 when attending the 40th anniversary of the D-Day landings. Her late Majesty was also patron of The Jockey Club for 68 years, from 1954 until her death in September 2022.

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‘It’s still an honour to ride for the royal family’: producer pilots The King’s horse to Royal Windsor ridden RoR championship

Millie Bowles — Fri, 15 May 2026 10:05:19 +0000

Princess Anne watched on as one of The King’s ex-racehorses won the Tattersalls Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) ridden class for former Flat horses before claiming the 2026 Royal Windsor ridden RoR championship under producer Katie Jerram-Hunnable.

First Receiver’s win capped an already stellar day for Team Jerram/Hunnable as Katie’s husband Chris Hunnable had already led The Queen’s Reach For The Moon to the in-hand RoR spoils earlier in the day.

It was an emotional day for the team, as both horses were bred by The late Queen Elizabeth II. The bay gelding made Her Majesty’s wish of a homebred win at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) come true shortly after her death in 2022.

He first came to Katie earlier that year, after royal groom Terry Pendry invited her to come and look at him at Sandringham. Terry, who was ringside with Princess Anne, said: “That was The Queen’s dream. She’d won everything else in the show world. Horse of the Year Show was the only thing that she never ever won. She’ll be looking down.”

Katie said: “First is absolutely fantastic. We’ve been really lucky to have kept on with him, now The King’s horse, and it’s just an honour still to ride for the royal family. It’s quite unbelievable and I never thought the journey would continue, but it has. They’re still keen.”

She added: “All of the horses I’ve ever ridden for The late Queen – and now The King – are home-breds, and I think that’s even more special.”

To be handed the trophy by Princess Anne, who attracted crowds at the Adelaide Arena, made the win even more memorable.

Katie said: “That, to me, was just the icing on the cake and I didn’t expect it at all. It brought back the old days when we had all the following with The late Queen here.”

2026 Royal Windsor ridden RoR championship reserve

Reserve in the 2026 Royal Windsor ridden RoR championship were the winners of the class for former National Hunt horses, Tori Thomas with her own Wonga Swinger, who is also a former HOYS winner, and the reigning RIHS amateur riding horse champion.

Also taking part in the championship were second placed in the class for Flat horses, Hannah Horton and Migration – 2025 winners here, and second place in the division for former National Hunt horses, Gentleman At Arms ridden by Harriet Hammond.

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Cheeky Shetland on perfect behaviour to welcome The King to Balmoral

Lucy Elder — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 16:24:18 +0000

Shetland Corporal Cruachan IV joined the guard of honour to officially welcome The King to Balmoral – marking the start of His Majesty’s summer holiday in Scotland.

The pony, who took a cheeky swipe at The late Queen’s bouquet at one of their many meetings some years ago, is the beloved mascot of The Royal Regiment of Scotland.

He joined Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion, to greet His Majesty on Monday (18 August), standing proudly with his handler, Pony Major Corporal Rory Stewart as The King inspected his Royal Guard.

“Balaklava Company has the unique privilege of supporting His Majesty The King and the royal household during their summer court in Scotland,” said Major Tommy Blair, the officer commanding Balaklava Company.

“It’s a huge honour to command this parade today marking His Majesty’s arrival at Balmoral, and we’re looking forward to spending the coming months in Royal Deeside.”

Cpl Cruachan IV, 16, who measures just 10.3hh, took up his role in October 2012 and is entitled to wear the operational medals awarded to the regiment during his tenure as mascot.

He lives with his uncle, Nightcap, who ensures his nephew is “put back in his box” if he is getting a little too big for his boots.

The two ponies spend most of their time in stables at Redford Barracks, where they are cared for by Cpl Stewart, and enjoy trips to the beach when the weather is kind.

The King is colonel in chief of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, and Balaklava Company will remain on royal guard in Balmoral for the rest of the summer.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

A legendary horse and rider with a combined age of 86 and a red ribbon for The King’s carriage horse – what you might have missed at Royal Windsor Horse Show

Jennifer Donald — Mon, 19 May 2025 17:45:34 +0000

The sun shone, ponies gleamed, five-star showjumpers soared and cobs looked magnificent during a vintage Royal Windsor Horse Show (15-18 May) last week. So before the dust settles on this year’s show, let’s reflect on just some of the magical moments during the four-day spectacle, held in the grounds of Windsor Castle.

From an emotional victory for a vet who swapped his scrubs for a tweed suit to Jack Whitaker pipping his uncle John to the post, and even The King earning a brace of red ribbons, here are some of the epic highlights we reported on from this year’s Royal Windsor Horse Show. You can read further coverage, including exclusive interviews and insight in our bumper report in this week’s Horse & Hound magazine, in the shops from Thursday 22 May.

Red ribbons for The King at Royal Windsor Horse Show as Cleveland Bay carriage horse triumphs

Competing in his own back garden, The King’s majestic Cleveland Bays triumphed in this year’s ridden pure- and part-bred classes.

Thirteen-year-old Wyevale Harry, a carriage horse at the Royal Mews who is a key part of state occasions, was ridden by Isabel Oakley – a liveried helper at the Royal Mews – to take top spot in the pure-bred ridden Cleveland Bay class. Meanwhile Isabel’s colleague Bethany Atwell partnered The King’s St Ives to win the part-bred ridden Cleveland Bay class.

Find out how Isabel got the ride on “Harry” and the secrets to her success, along with the other Cleveland Bay winners

The world is not enough for mighty stallion Bond Jamesbond De Hay

Belgium’s Gregory Wathelet and his magnificent stallion Bond Jamesbond De Hay triumphed in Sunday’s coveted CSI5* Rolex grand prix, worth €125,000 (£105,000) to the winner. Harry Charles, who is getting married this summer, was the best of the British contingent, finishing third with top horse Sherlock.

Read the remarkable story of the class, including how the Olympic champion and other class favourites crashed out of contention

Vet swaps scrubs for a tweed suit – and wins

Equine vet Simon Constable led his daughter Zara aboard palomino Welsh section A Glyncoch Honey Pot for an emotional Royal Windsor Horse Show victory in both the open mini M&M plus the Pretty Polly (home-produced) championships at Royal Windsor.

“Every day we are amazed that we get to own her,” said Simon of the versatile pony

A historic Royal Windsor Horse Show double

Royal Windsor history was made when A-Level student Ruby Ward landed a winning double, producing champions in both the native and plaited working hunter pony classes with Lady Dublin of Corderry and Noble Banksy respectively.

Read about the “big, technical and cleverly built” course they faced

Winner of the Intermediate Working Hunter Ruby Ward and Noble Banksy at The Royal Windsor Horse Show, Windsor, Berkshire, United Kingdom. May 17th 2025 (Image credit: Elli Birch)

“He won’t give me tips!”

Royal Windsor isn’t Royal Windsor without a victory for the Whitaker family and there was nearly a Whitaker whitewash on day one when Jack Whitaker (Valmy De La Lande) pipped his uncle John Whitaker (Equine America Unick Du Francport) to victory in the CSI5* Defender Stakes, while Jack’s cousin Donald Whitaker picked up fifth.

“He has no respect for his old uncle!” joked John.

“John won’t give me tips!” quipped Jack in return.

With a combined age of 86 between 69-year-old John and his 17-year-old horse were the Royal Windsor crowd favourites

“Geezer” cob secures second championship and a bonus prize

Will Morton secured his second successive cob championship at Royal Windsor Horse Show, this time riding Valerie Hosegood’s skewbald heavyweight winner and “proper geezer” Bannview So Smart.

Read about the skewbald’s fitness regime and his prize for the healthy horse weight initiative “Weigh to Win”
To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

The King’s rare breed Cleveland Bays win ridden classes at Royal Windsor Horse Show

Celeste Gall — Mon, 19 May 2025 10:47:07 +0000

The King’s Cleveland Bays emerged victorious in the ridden pure- and part-bred classes at Royal Windsor Horse Show, while a three-year-old gelding won the prestigious Cholderton Cup for the best overall in-hand.

Isabel Oakley, a liveried helper at the Royal Mews, rode The King’s 13-year-old Wyevale Harry to win the pure-bred ridden Cleveland Bay class on her debut. Isabel, whose job involves the daily exercise and care of the state carriage horses, looks after Harry.

“When I was asked if I wanted to take Harry to Royal Windsor, I wanted to make this year a successful one for him,” said Isabel. “I have been working hard creating a bond with him during the last three months and have loved every minute of every schooling session and show preparation with him

“It’s taken a lot of preparation due to him being a carriage horse at the Royal Mews and having to be so versatile in his job as both a ridden and driven horse. Harry takes part in numerous state occasions throughout the year including state visits, credentials and also Royal Ascot.”

Harry will now have a short rest before being prepared for his duties at Royal Ascot in June.

“Winning at Royal Windsor has been a very proud moment in my equestrian career and a memory that I will treasure forever,” said Isabel, whose colleague Bethany Atwell partnered The King’s St Ives to win the part-bred ridden Cleveland Bay class.

Three-year-old wins the coveted Cholderton Cup at Royal Windsor

Emily Fisher made the long trip from Devon worthwhile with her three-year-old gelding Bahain Terminator (Arnie) to not only win the youngstock class from a exceptional class of six, but also take home the coveted Cholderton Cup for the overall best pure-bred Cleveland Bay in-hand, fending off competition from Daniel Cracknell’s Willowhall Jim, who won the four-years-and-over class.

“Arnie’s results left me speechless; he walked into that ring and strutted his stuff,” said Emily, who added: “The standard this year was incredible with nine incredible Cleveland Bays being presented [for the in-hand].”

To stay up to date with all the news from Royal Windsor, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website – and check out our live news service for updates across the showing rings

‘He loves being the showman’: former racehorse who refused to leave the starting stalls crowned champion over The King’s horse at Royal Windsor Horse Show

Celeste Gall — Thu, 15 May 2025 14:43:57 +0000

Show producer Hannah Horton has enjoyed a clean sweep in her classes on day one of Royal Windsor Horse Show, taking the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) ridden championship with the Flat winner Migration.

Owned by Anthony and Georgina Andrews, Migration was gifted to them by the Gail Brown Racing Syndicate and last raced just over a year ago.

“He refused to come out of the starting stalls so they decided to retire him from racing there and then,” said Hannah, who took up the reins on him shortly afterwards and swiftly qualified him for the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) just five months later.

Trained by David Menuisier, nine-year-old Migration won over £200,000 on the track.

“He coped really well with the atmosphere at HOYS and the bigger the show, the better he goes – he just loves being the showman,” said Hannah, who also clinched the working show horse class with Lady Madeleine Lloyd Webber’s home-bred mare Sixties Icon.

Reserve champion for The King’s horse at Royal Windsor

Taking the reserve spot was the Flat runner-up, The King’s First Receiver – dual champion here last year – with H&H columnist Katie Jerram-Hunnable. The eight-year-old gelding was bred by The late Queen, becoming her final show ring winner before she died – and took the ridden RoR championship at HOYS just a month after her death in 2022.

Eve Nicholls won the National Hunt ridden class with her own Falloway Dubreau, whom she looked after when he raced under Fergal O’Brien. The 10-year-old gelding ran in point-to-points and over hurdles and retired from racing four years ago and is very special to Eve as she rode him out and led him up in all his races. The pair took the final HOYS qualifier of the year last season.

Finishing second was Katie Dashwood with the extremely successful dual RoR and riding horse Minella Rebellion.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from Royal Windsor, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘The freshest breath on parade!’ Army horse injured in London to star in King’s birthday celebration – after plenty of mints

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 10:45:13 +0000

One of the horses who was injured while running loose in London this spring will be taking part in The King’s birthday parade – with the freshest breath in the regiment.

Tennyson, who was one of the five Household Cavalry horses who were injured after they were spooked in the capital in April, has “returned to service without missing a step”, so much so that he will be among the 242 horses at the event tomorrow (15 June).

Straight after the incident, Tennyson and his colleagues Trojan and Vanquish had emergency veterinary treatment, then after a period at Hyde Park Barracks were sent to The Horse Trust for “expert respite care in rolling fields”.

“Their recovery was so swift and successful that they returned to service last month,” an Army spokesperson said. “Since then, they have been gradually reacclimatised to London life and have shown such aptitude and eagerness that they’re all now back on duty.”

Tennyson will be part of the sovereign’s escort at the rear of the second division in the birthday parade. Trojan and Vanquish will be part of The King’s Life Guard at Horse Guards.

Captain Charles Carr-Smith, 1 Troop Leader, the Life Guards Squadron, Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment said: “Military working horse Tennyson is the epitome of a cavalry black. Bold and brave as a war horse should be, yet a gentleman to ride and groom.

“Tennyson has returned to service without missing a step. His return has lifted the spirits of those in 1 Troop the Life Guards. Knowing that this brilliant horse will once again carry his rider carefully down the Mall or canter off, leaping over log piles in Melton Mowbray, is a comfort to our less experienced riders, who will undoubtedly scramble to put their names alongside his, for daily exercise. Due to so many well-wishers sending in mints, it goes without saying that Tennyson has the freshest breath of any horse on parade!”

Tennyson will be ridden by Corporal of Horse Harvey, the Life Guards Squadron equitation instructor and the most experienced rider in the division.

“The riders caught up in the incident are also doing well, with three of the five who sustained injuries, recovered and back on duty,” the spokesperson said. “The remaining two soldiers continue to make good progress in their recovery and are expected to return to duty in due course. The two more seriously injured horses, Vida and Quaker, are still enjoying their peaceful countryside respite care at The Horse Trust, and will do so for as long as they need.”

Horse Trust CEO Jeanette Allen said everyone at the charity is very happy to see Tennyson, Trojan and Vanquish back on parade.

“Anything we have done to help them complete their recovery, to the point of returning to full duties, means a great deal to us,” she said. “We also thank the public for their continued support of our charity in providing dignified retirements to all types of public service horses and perhaps one day, in the hopefully distant future, these boys may return to live out their days here at the end of their service.

“Their friends Vida and Quaker are still enjoying their peaceful countryside respite with us and will do so for as long as they need.”

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Two early Royal Windsor championships for The King’s top show horse

Alex Robinson — Thu, 02 May 2024 13:45:13 +0000

The ex-racehorse First Receiver provided The King with a double championship victory on day one of the 2024 Royal Windsor Horse Show as he was crowned 2024 Tattersalls RoR open in-hand champion, as well as Tattersalls thoroughbred ridden show horse series champion.

The seven-year-old gelding began his Windsor campaign when handled to perfection by Chris Hunnable, who produces the horse for the show ring alongside his wife, H&H columnist Katie Jerram-Hunnable, who took the reins less than two hours later to score the victory in ridden ranks.

Katie rode First Receiver to glory in the Racehorse to Riding Horse championship at the Horse of the Year Show in 2021, his first appearance at the prestigious final in his debut season. He was previously owned by his breeder, The Queen, and he qualified for HOYS in 2021 at Burghley Horse Trials, becoming her Majesty’s final show ring winner before she died.

First Receiver is by New Approach and during his time in racing he was trained by Sir Michael Stoute. He has only been very lightly shown and he was last seen at Royal Windsor under-saddle in 2022 when he was just a novice.

“I’ve never galloped him like that before, but I knew I had to go for it,” commented Katie, as she left the ridden championship. “He was just awesome today. I had a really bad ride on him here last year; he was very worried and nervous about everything, so we’ve given him a year out for both him and I to mentally process everything. I came here today with a lot of anticipation and I hope this proves to people that even if you have a wobble, never give up on your ambitions; it was my dream to win this on him, and he’s only gone and done a double-whammy.”

Reserve in the 2024 Tattersalls RoR open in-hand championship was Star Caliber, handled by his owner Barry Smith, who had finished second in the flat section behind First Receiver. This Golden Horn six-year-old ran 19 times during his career, winning once in 2020 at Goodwood.

Joining the flat horses in the 2024 Tattersalls RoR open in-hand championship were the top two exhibits from the national hunt division, Kelly Morgan’s Top Wood, a Kotky Bleu 17-year-old handled by Jasean Spraggett, and Sophie Staveley’s Burnieboozle, a nine-year-old by Frozen Power.

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Jilly Cooper among equestrians named in The King’s new year honours

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 11:13:43 +0000

Jilly Cooper said she was “incredibly bowled over” to be honoured with a damehood for services to literature and charity.

The author was one of the equestrians named in The King’s first New Year Honours List, which also recognises coaches and figures from the horseracing industry.

Jilly Cooper’s citation covers her career from a reporter on the Middlesex Independent in 1955 to a Sunday Times columnist and bestselling author of 47 books, including the hugely popular Rutshire chronicles and Animals in War, an account of the roles animals have played in human battles. She was one of the founding patrons of the animals in war memorial in Hyde Park and patron of many animal welfare charities.

Peter Jensen, lately chair of trustees of the Home of Horseracing Trust, and chair of the British Sporting Arts Trust, was appointed OBE for charitable service, and Julian Richmond-Watson, lately chair of the Thoroughbred Breeders Association, was appointed OBE for services to the British horseracing industry. Richard Linley, lately senior inspector of courses for the British Horseracing Authority, was appointed MBE for services to horseracing. King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery commanding officer John Baileff was also appointed MBE.

Pony Club trainer Jennifer Bryer was appointed MBE for services to horse riding, as was British Horse Society (BHS) regional access and bridleway officer for Wales Dorothy Hyett, for services to horse riders and horse welfare. Harriet Laurie, founder of TheHorseCourse, was appointed MBE for services to disadvantaged people in Dorset.

The British Empire Medal (BEM) went to Alison Buchanan, BHS Changing Lives Through Horses coach and yard manager at BHS-approved Bovington Equestrian, and a trustee of the #WillDoes charity, for services to young people. Malson Phillips, chair of the South Wales Shire Horse Society, was also given the BEM, for services to conservation.

Prime minister Rishi Sunak said: “The New Year Honours List recognises the exceptional achievements of people across the country and those who have shown the highest commitment to selflessness and compassion.

“To all honourees, you are the pride of this country and an inspiration to us all.”

The King to follow in his mother’s footsteps as Royal Windsor unveils new plans

Lucy Elder — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 17:37:04 +0000

Royal Windsor Horse Show is intending to offer financial assistance to competitors, as part of major new plans to enhance the show in 2024 and beyond.

Show director Simon Brooks-Ward shares the news at a media briefing at the London International Horse Show on Thursday (14 December).

The King has been named as patron of the show – continuing the tradition held by his mother, The late Queen, and grandfather, King George VI.

Watch Simon Brooks-Ward talk about new plans for Royal Windsor Horse Show

“We are a small jewel and we want to place emphasis on quality rather than quantity,” said Mr Brooks-Ward.

“We’re not going to go for just hundreds and thousands of trade stands or ponies; we’re going to be very select.

“We want world-class competitive facilities and we have to create educative and entertaining visitor experiences.”

In real terms, that means a focus on sustainability in both the sport and visitor sides of the show. It will be seen through investment in footing, a Hermès riders’ lounge, a push towards increased use of technology, and a new champions’ avenue to celebrate horses and riders. It will also involve increased crossover and collaboration with other Crown-connected areas, for example, enlisting the help of the head gardener at Windsor Castle on flowers, food from the farm shop, royal collection china in hospitality, plus live hubs showcasing the arts, heritage skills and more.

One or two showing classes will be cut for 2024, but Mr Brooks-Ward stressed that the cuts are not related to the new plans.

“We are also going to give athletes financial assistance because one of the big problems we’re going to face going forward are the Brexit rules. It’s not just about entering your horses and going into the UK. From next year, you will have to be vetted on the way out.”

He added that other than lobbying, crediting minister Richard Benyon and British Equestrian chief executive Jim Eyre as among those doing a “great job” on that front, “the only thing we can do is to provide financial assistance as much as we possibly can.”

“Otherwise we will not be the international event that we need to be,” he said.

“There are so many other things that are going on, we’ve looked at every single area of the horse show, every single area, and the team have been working really hard for it.

“We need to keep pushing our industry on and pushing the envelope to keep relevant.”

What do you think about the news? Send your thoughts hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and country, for a chance for your letter to appear in a forthcoming issue of the magazine

‘It’s bittersweet’: horse bred by The late Queen triumphs for King and Queen at Royal Ascot

Gemma Redrup — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 16:42:31 +0000

A hero was made at Royal Ascot today (22 June) in the form of the William Haggas-trained Desert Hero, who was bred by The late Queen, when he won the King George V Stakes under Tom Marquand for owners The King and Queen.

The three-year-old chestnut colt is bred in the purple by Sea The Stars, out of Dubai mare Desert Breeze, and he got his nose in front on the line under a great ride by Tom, having been sent off at odds of 18/1.

“This is genuinely one of the proudest moments of my life in the saddle so far,” said an emotional Tom. “I grew up watching horses win for Her late Majesty The Queen and to ride one for His Majesty the King is unbelievable. I’m in a dream world.

“Royal Ascot is the pinnacle and riding a royal winner at the royal meeting is so special.”

Desert Hero battled it out up the home straight in the latter stages of the 1m3f race alongside Valiant King, under Oisin Murphy for trainer Joseph O’Brien and owner Qatar Racing Limited, and eventually won by a head.

“I wasn’t always confident we were going to get there and win but this fella was supremely game and the Haggas team get it right time and time again,” said Tom.

Zara Tindall, The King’s niece, said: “It’s bittersweet – just think how proud and excited our grandmother The Queen would have been. But for Charles and Camilla to have a winner keeps the dream alive.

“What a race – it was incredible. Fulfilling the dream is amazing and the horses are at the centre of it – we love them.”

William Haggas said that to win for The King and Queen was “a great honour”.

“I thought Desert Hero and Tom were going to be more forward, but the other runners went a bit fast and ultimately he stayed on really well – it was the horse’s first time running over a mile and a half,” he said.

“The King and Queen have been looking forward to Royal Ascot for a long time and they are delighted. It’s important for horse racing and it’s important that they enjoy it.”

Don’t miss the full report from Royal Ascot 2023 in the 29 June issue of Horse & Hound magazine, plus we will be bringing you all the top stories from the meeting as and when they happen on horseandhound.co.uk

New Matchbox model of royal state coach and eight Windsor greys to mark coronation

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 01 May 2023 18:21:25 +0000

Matchbox is marking its 70th anniversary and The King’s coronation by releasing a new model of the gold state coach, complete with eight Windsor grey horses.

The toy car manufacturer has recreated the model made for The late Queen’s coronation that funded its launch in 1953, and to which it “owes its foundation”.

A spokesman for Matchbox said the 1:64 model is the most detailed Matchbox to date.

“Seventy years ago, London-based diecasting business Lesney sold over one million of its 11.8cm coronation coach produced to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the throne,” he said. “Its sales success enabled Lesney to fund the launch of the newly conceived Matchbox brand. Today the iconic diecast brand has produced over three billion cars and counting.

“Available to order from 26 April, the 2023 Matchbox diecast set measures 23cm long and perfectly captures the majestic presence of the 261-year-old, four-tonne gold state coach. This specific coach has been a prominent feature in every coronation since King George IV in 1821.”

(Image credit: Frankwalker.de - stock.adobe.com)

Roberto Stanichi, global head of vehicles at Mattel, through which the vehicle is available, said the aim is for this model to be “one of the most exclusive Matchbox has ever created”.

The spokesman said Matchbox’s aim was to produce its most detailed version of the coach.

“Its designers pored over hundreds of images taken by Julian Payne, senior manager of Matchbox Product Design during a visit to the Royal Mews, together with hours of footage of the most important royal celebrations in recent times to faithfully reproduce the giltwood coach, eight Windsor grey horses and four coachmen,” the spokesman said.

“The intensive four-month design process was a true blend of old design practices and some of the most innovative techniques used today. The team used the latest 3D scanners to capture the incredibly detailed sculpted form of the horses and riders from the original Lesney model. Prototype parts were then created in real time using 3D printing.”

The state coach was designed by William Chambers and made by coachmaker Samuel Butler in 1762. It is seven metres long, over three and half metres tall and weighs four tonnes and is pulled by eight horses.

The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery: the guns, the troopers and the musical ride

Liz Falkingham — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 17:32:13 +0000

Anyone who has seen the Musical Ride of the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery knows the skill, stamina and training required of both soldiers and horses to perform such an array of manoeuvres. Away from shows like Royal Windsor, The King’s Troop also takes the lead when parading with its guns at ceremonial events such as Trooping the Colour, despite the Household Cavalry being first in the Army’s order of precedence, and will be on display at the King’s coronation in May.

Founded in 1793, the Royal Horse Artillery fought in French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars right through to World War I, providing mobile fire support to the fast-moving cavalry. The cavalry was then mechanised during the interwar years, and 1946 saw the formation of the regiment as The Riding Troop, later renamed The King’s Troop after inspection by King George VI – The King’s Troop is now the only remaining mounted unit of the Royal Horse Artillery.

It was a gun carriage of the Royal Horse Artillery that bore the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, her father King George VI and Princess Diana from Buckingham Palace to Westminster. As the monarch’s Mounted Ceremonial Battery, the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery also fires Royal Salutes for grand occasions of State.

The regiment includes mounted gunners, gun team drivers, farriers, saddlers, tailors and logistics, and is based at Royal Artillery Barracks in Woolwich. There are 120 horses in the regiment, 13 of which are officers’ chargers and the rest “ride and drive”, usually sourced in Ireland before being brought over for training at the Defence Animal Training Regiment in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire.

While the Household Cavalry select only black horses (greys for the trumpeters and band), the horses of the King’s Troop are selected to be a certain type and range of colours. The six guns, each weighing 1.5t, are drawn by teams of six horses, each team called a sub-division, and range from light bays in A Sub-division, to blacks in F Sub-division.

The front horses are called leads and are the largest of the team at around 16hh, the centre horses are around 15.3hh and the wheelers at the back are shorter and stockier at 15.2hh. As with horses of the Household Cavalry, once the initial training is done, the horses (known at this stage as remounts) of the Royal Artillery then move to London to complete their training with the specialist equipment of the regiment.

While the Musical Ride is highly entertaining to watch, it is based on drills that had a real purpose on the battlefield. The 13-pounder guns used date back to between 1912 and 1918, and have seen active service in both World Wars; with the exception of the ‘George gun’, which is reserved exclusively for the funeral of the reigning monarch, all of the guns are used daily on parade, in training or at events.

At any one time, there are approximately 140 men and women in the King’s Troop. Having initially been allowed to apply in 1996, almost 50% per cent of the Troop are now women, making it one of the units with the highest balance by sex in the Army. When Major Erica Bridge became commanding officer of the King’s Troop in 2007, she was the first woman to do so in the history of the Household Division .

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Meet The King’s new ‘Noble’ steed with links to his mother’s wonderful Burmese

Lucy Elder — Mon, 13 Mar 2023 16:30:59 +0000

The King has been given a horse by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (“Mounties”) to continue a long tradition that includes The late Queen’s beloved Burmese.

Noble, a seven-year-old 16.2hh mare, is “settling into life” at the Royal Mews in Windsor, and His Majesty was “pleased” to meet her for the first time last week.

Noble toured with the Mounties’ musical ride in 2022, where it is said that she was “recognised for her superior physical and athletic ability, as well as her composed personality”.

“Having demonstrated her potential during the tour with the musical ride, participating in 90 public performances at 50 different locations in Canada, Noble was selected as the ideal horse for His Majesty because of her size and ability,” said a statement from the royal family.

“Her calm demeanour allows her to thrive in the sometimes raucous atmosphere of exciting public events.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

The mare was bred and trained in Canada as part of the mounted police’s breeding programme in Pakenham, Ontario, and received her name through its annual “name the foal” competition.

This year marks the Mounties’ 150th anniversary, and its association with the royal family dates back to 1904, when King Edward VII bestowed the title of royal on the then North-West Mounted Police.

After taking part in the coronation of The Queen in 1953, the Mounties went on to present Her Majesty with eight horses during her reign.

The first of these was Burmese in 1969, who Her Majesty rode at Trooping the Colour for 18 years. Burmese was one of The Queen’s favourite horses, as highlighted by groom and stud manager Terry Pendry to H&H in 2020. She retired in 1986 to Windsor, where she enjoyed four years before she died at the age of 28. She is buried in the grounds of Home Park private.

The other horses the Mounties gave The Queen were Centenial in 1973; James in 1998 – who The King as Prince of Wales regularly rode for Trooping the Colour; George in 2009, who The King has also ridden for Trooping the Colour; Elizabeth in 2012; Sir John in 2016; and Kluane and Darby in 2019.

Four members of the mounted police also took part in Her Majesty’s funeral procession last year, riding horses they had given The Queen.

Royal horses’ change of ownership reflects The Queen Consort’s love of racing

Lucy Elder — Sat, 11 Mar 2023 19:25:02 +0000

The royal racehorses will run in joint ownership of The King and The Queen Consort, Weatherbys has confirmed.

Following The late Queen’s death in 2022, ownership of her racehorses passed to The King.

His first runner as monarch was the William Haggas-trained Educator, who finished second at Salisbury on 29 September, and his first winner bearing the royal silks the then four-year-old Just Fine, trained by Sir Michael Stoute, at Leicester on 4 October.

It is now confirmed that the Queen Consort, who is known for her love of racing, will join The King in ownership of the royal racehorses.

They have horses with a number of trainers, including John and Thady Gosden, Sir Michael Stoute, Nicky Henderson, Ralph Beckett, William Haggas and Richard Hughes.

They have three horses – all bred by The Queen – among the 83 currently remaining in contention for a starting place in the 2023 Derby at Epsom.

These are Circle Of Fire, by Almanzor out of Galileo daughter Fiery Sunset, in training with Sir Michael Stoute. They also have Sea The Stars son Desert Hero, out of Desert Breeze (by Dubawi), who is trained by William Haggas. Completing the trio is the John and Thady Gosden-trained Slipofthepen, who is by Night Of Thunder and out of Danehill Dancer mare Free Verse.

While the Nicky Henderson-trained Steal A March was not among yesterday’s (10 March) confirmations for the Pertemps Network Final Handicap Hurdle, there will be a royal connection at Cheltenham next week.

The Queen’s retired racehorse Barbers Shop, now 21 years old, will be taking part in the Retraining of Racehorses parade on the opening day of the Festival (14 March), ridden by Katie Jerram Hunnable.

The Queen Consort is also expected to continue to have some horses in partnership with Sir Chips Keswick.

14 of The Queen’shorses tobe sold this week

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 16:30:49 +0000

The King is selling some of the horses he inherited from his late mother The Queen at Tattersalls this week.

His Majesty has 14 horses in training listed in this week’s Tattersalls Autumn Horses in Training Sale (24-27 October). It is the largest sale of its kind in the world, with some 1,500 horses for sale.

The royal family has about 50 horses in training, and selling some of these at the end of each season is normal, as is the fact the horses are being consigned by their trainers.

Six horses were due to go under the hammer today; two-year-olds Persian Gold, Constitution and Juryman, and three-year-olds Duty Bound, Spring Is Sprung and Tack.

Five more are to be sold tomorrow; Theme Park 2 and Just Fine, four, and three-year-olds Kiteflyer, Naval College General Idea. On Wednesday, two-year-olds Quiet Life, Love Affairs and four-year-old Tactical will be sold.

Tattersalls spokesman Jimmy George said the sales did not mean a change to the royal family’s connection with racing: “It’s nothing out of the ordinary. Every year they would sell horses,” he said.

“Every year owners sell stock. His Majesty is just doing what owners do.”

The details of the late Queen’s horse who are due to be sold this week can be seen on the Tattersalls website.

Badminton changes 2023 dates to avoid coronation cross-country clash

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 20 Oct 2022 10:15:38 +0000

The 2023 Badminton Horse Trials, presented by Mars Equestrian, will start a day later than planned to avoid the cross-country clashing with The King and The Queen Consort’s coronation.

It was announced last week that the ceremony is to take place on Saturday, 6 May. This would have been cross-country day of the CCI5*, which was due to run from 3-7 May.

At the time, Badminton director Jane Tuckwell said the event was working on its planning to “fit around the coronation”, and the team has confirmed the change today.

“The dressage phase will now take place on Friday and Saturday (5 and 6 May), cross-country on Sunday (7 May) and the showjumping finale on Monday (8 May),” a Badminton spokesman said.

“Dressage will start earlier on Saturday so that everyone – competitors, spectators and officials – can be part of this historic day; the coronation service will be shown on the big screens.”

Badminton final scores

It is not the first time Badminton has finished on a Monday; the event ran on to the early May bank holiday for a number of years. It has not yet been confirmed by the Government whether 8 May will be a bank holiday.

Mrs Tuckwell said: “Ever since the news came through that the coronation would be held on the Saturday of Badminton we have been working out how best to deliver the event around the celebrations.

“We very much hope that the wonderful and historic occasion of the coronation will make it a truly memorable Badminton and that everyone will be able to attend as usual.”

The dressage phase of the Voltaire Design Grassroots Championships will run on the Wednesday and Thursday, 3 and 4 May. The Dubarry Burghley Young Event Horse qualifier will also take place on 4 May, plus the first horse inspection for the CCI5*-L. Trade stands will be open from the Thursday.

The box office will open in early January.

The King’s coronation to clash with Badminton Horse Trials cross-country

Becky Murray — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 16:27:13 +0000

The King’s coronation will take place on the same day as Badminton Horse Trials’ cross-country next year.

This week Buckingham Palace announced that the coronation will take place on Saturday 6 May 2023, at Westminster Abbey, conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury.

“The ceremony will see The King crowned alongside The Queen Consort,” said a Buckingham Palace spokesman.

“The coronation will reflect the monarch’s role today and look towards the future, while being rooted in long-standing traditions and pageantry.”

The spokesman added that further details will be announced in due course. It has not been confirmed whether there will be a bank holiday linked to the coronation.

Badminton final scores

Badminton Horse Trials runs 3 to 7 May next year and today (14 October) the event’s director Jane Tuckwell said the event is working on its planning to “fit around the coronation” – but until they know more details, they are not able to confirm Badminton’s arrangements for the weekend.

“As soon as our plans are in place, we will communicate the same to all,” she said.

In Jane’s director blog published on 9 October she gave an update on the 2023 event and said it had been a “busy summer, with plenty to reflect on and learn from the 2022 event” and the team was “planning for 2023 in earnest”.

“I have had assurance from Vodafone and O2 that their masts will be in situ next year. The wi-fi will return to the same standard of service – or better – than that provided in 2019,” she said.

“We will be unveiling various new ideas over the coming months, including changes to the cross-country course, which has received its autumn ground improvements, and we are working hard on plans to refine and enhance delivery of the livestream.”

She added that another “big project” has been the cleaning out of the Mount Pond, in the park.

“More than 700 bumper truckloads of debris was removed, which will ensure we have sufficient water for the 2023 course,” she said.

“The debris was transported across the park and ploughed back into an arable field, which will now be rich in nutrients, so we should see a bumper crop there next autumn.”

Sea The Stars son crowned as The King’s first winner in the royal silks

Lucy Elder — Tue, 04 Oct 2022 17:58:13 +0000

The King recorded his first winner as monarch with Just Fine producing a comfortable victory under jockey Ryan Moore at Leicester today (4 October).

The Sir Michael Stoute-trained four-year-old pulled clear of his rivals at the furlong pole, widening the gap in the closing stages. He crossed the finish line four and a half lengths ahead of 9/4 favourite Sea The Casper in the 3.10pm 1m2f Kube – Leicester’s Premier Event Hire Venue handicap, making history as the first winner for His Majesty since he became King.

This was the third win for Just Fine, who had a starting price of 100/30, and his first since July 2021.

The Sea The Stars son, out of Kingmambo mare Bint Almatar, was bred by Godolphin and is in his third season in training.

Weatherbys confirmed to H&H last week that the ownership of all The Queen’s racehorses had been transferred to The King.

“All horses in training previously owned by Her Majesty The Queen have been transferred to His Majesty King Charles III, and will race in the name of The King, wearing the colours previously registered to The Queen, specifically purple, gold braid, scarlet sleeves, black velvet cap and gold fringe,” said the Weatherbys spokesperson.

The King’s first runner as monarch was Educator, a three-year-old colt bred by The Queen and trained by William Haggas, who finished second at Salisbury piloted by Tom Marquand on 29 September.

The Queen’s racehorses transferred to The King with first to run tomorrow

Gemma Redrup — Wed, 28 Sep 2022 12:24:11 +0000

The King will have his first runner as Britain’s monarch tomorrow (29 September), following the death of his mother The Queen.

The William Haggas-trained Educator, a three-year-old colt bred by The Queen, will run in The Radcliffe and Co Handicap Stakes at Salisbury at 4.54pm.

Weatherbys confirmed the ownership of all of The Queen’s racehorses has been transferred to The King.

“All horses in training previously owned by Her Majesty The Queen have been transferred to His Majesty King Charles III, and will race in the name of The King, wearing the colours previously registered to The Queen, specifically purple, gold braid, scarlet sleeves, black velvet cap and gold fringe,” said the spokesperson.

This brings an end to speculation that The Queen’s racehorses might have been transferred to run under the ownership of Queen Consort Camilla, who is a fan of the sport.

British Horseracing Authority chairman Joe Saumarez Smith said: “The loss of Her late Majesty was keenly felt within the racing and breeding industries given her lifelong passion for the sport, and so we are naturally thrilled to see that the horses previously owned by her will race on in the ownership of His Majesty King Charles III.

“Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II left an indelible mark on our sport and her legacy will continue to be felt, not only through the horses that will continue to run in the name of King Charles III, but also those she bred who are yet to be seen on the racecourse in the years to come. We wish Educator and King Charles III the very best of luck on Thursday, and keenly look forward to further successes in those famous royal silks on British racecourses.”

The King has had runners in Britain this season with Pride Of The Pack and Cygneture racing for him and the Queen Consort under their previous titles of the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall.

The King also has several other horses entered into races over the next month, including King’s Lynn, Improvise, Mellow Yellow, Perfect Alibi and Tactical.

The Prince of Wales supports Hackney rare breed

Horse & Hound — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 16:59:14 +0000

The Prince of Wales has taken on the role of president of the Hackney Horse Society (HHS) as it bids to revive the breed, which is facing extinction.

Prince Charles, patron of the Rare Breed Survival Trust (RBST), has a keen interest in Britain’s rare breeds. HHS chairman Roger Bass said that it was “an honour that [the Prince] has recognised within that list the plight of the Hackney, both horse and pony, now critically endangered”.

The RBST considers a breed to be critical when the number of adult breeding females falls below 300. Figures from the RBST last year showed that there were fewer than 150 Hackney broodmares.

“His Royal Highness is a keen advocate for rare British breeds and well aware of their special qualities, diversity and history, all of which we are in danger of losing,” said Roger.

“The HHS feels privileged and extremely fortunate to have the support of His Royal Highness to promote the breeding of our wonderful Hackney horse and pony.

“Despite being now small in number, the pure-bred Hackney is still dominant in the show ring and the society is determined to reverse the decline in their fortunes and get the breed back on a firmer footing.”

The Prince has accepted the role for 2013-14.