On Thursday 2 November the Horse and Hound Awards returned for the second year with a glittering ceremony to mark the occasion. The achievements of the dressage world were recognized with two personalities picking up awards and two others shortlisted.
Triple para gold medalist Julie Payne was deservedly presented with the H & H inspiration award for her phenomenal results at this year’s European Championships held in Gothenburg, Sweden.
Former advanced eventer, dressage rider and International endurance rider Julie was diagnosed with MSA and told five years ago that she wouldn’t be able to speak or walk within two years. Despite this she has gone on to achieve at the highest level and constantly maintained an amazing positive outlook. This year she surpassed all expectations aboard Athene Lindebjerg when the pair won every gold medal available to them at the Para European Championships. Outside of the white boards Julie has completed several incredible challenges for charity including climbing Snowdon, completing the world’s highest zip wire and abseiling down the ArcelorMittal Orbit building in London.
Carl Hester’s wonderful Olympic partner Nip Tuck, owned by Jane de la Mar, was awarded the Cavalor horse of the year accolade.
13-year-old Barney has had an outstanding year including finishing second to Rio silver medalists Isabel Werth and Weihegold at the World Cup finals in February and coming a close fourth place to just miss out on the medals in the Freestyle event at the European Championships in August.
Jo Lees represented our amazing volunteers and was only one of four announced in the prestigious shortlist.
Jo is the BYRDS South-West rep and performs a vital role in supporting and educating many of our young riders. She has tirelessly worked as Chef d’Equipe at inter-regional competitions and home internationals, alongside organising training camps and other activities.
Debbie Poynter was also nominated for Pikeur Amateur of the Year, a great achievement which reflected her success throughout the year in particular her Petplan Area Festival Championship win at Inter I level.
For full results of the awards click here
To view a photo gallery of the event click here