End of an era for HOYS

It’s goodbye Wembley as this year’s Horse of the Year Show moves to Birmingham’s NEC

This year’s Horse of the Year show is moving to the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham from its Wembley home after more than 40 years.

Mark Wein, director of Grandstand Media, which organises the event, said: “The venue management at Wembley could not guarantee that sufficient space would be available to accommodate the Horse of the Year Show. We were left with no alternative other than to find a new home for the show.”

This prestigious annual equestrian spectacular was established at Harringay Arena in 1949 and moved to Wembley Arena 10 years later due to lack of space. The show is generally considered to be the pinnacle of showing and show jumping in the UK.

Although some may dislike the show moving from what has become its traditional home, the organisers hope that the central location of the NEC will be popular with competitors and visitors alike.

“With the extended seating capacity, increased trade stand space and the NEC’s central location we feel that this move will be both popular and successful,” said Mark.

The British Show Jumping Association has supported the decision to change the show’s venue, which will take place on 9-13 October 2002. The 2003 show will also take place at the NEC.

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Carol Phillips

H&H website editor

Carol is an experienced journalist and editor, who is also a passionate amateur rider and dedicated horse owner, having ridden since childhood. She has a particular interest in the emotional well-being and ethical training of horses, alongside veterinary matters, having garnered extensive first-hand experience of numerous equine health conditions through more than 30 years of horse ownership.