New Year honours, making history, plus other things the horse world is talking about

1. New Year Honours for top riders

Olympic gold medallists from Tokyo were among the equestrians recognised in the 2022 New Year Honours List. Paralympian Sophie Wells, who was awarded a OBE for services to equestrianism, described the recognition as “surreal and humbling”, acknowledging that “it’s not something you can aim for or win; it comes from outside the sport, from non-horsey and even non-sporting people.”

Find out who else made the 2022 list

2. Kicking on into 2022 with a new record

Eight-time point-to-point champion Gina Andrews rang in the New Year by becoming British point-to-pointing’s winning-most female rider of all-time. Her milestone 304th victory saw the talented horsewoman pass Polly Gundry’s record that had stood for more than 10 years – a truly historic moment. Congratulations Gina!

Enjoy more point-to-point highlights from over the festive period

3. Join our 12 days of fitness

To complete today’s New Year-themed daily debrief, it is that time of year when many of us look to improve our health and fitness, whether that’s for reasons of self-improvement or to help prepare ourselves for the next competition season. If you are feeling inspired then, of course, we are here to help with expert advice to help you establish new habits over the coming days, including these simple exercises to help you become a better, more balanced rider.

Three simple exercises to get you started

You might also be interested in:

How many calories do you burn riding and looking after horses? Find out…

How all equestrians can help make the world a greener place

Subscribe to Horse & Hound this spring for great savings

How to use your legs correctly when riding a horse: our ultimate guide

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.

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.