An amateur horse rider from Westbury recently competed in this year’s Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).
Danielle McDowell and her horse, Ceide Finn, took part in the competition, having earned their spot when they won a qualifier at Hartpury University earlier in the year.
To prepare for the show, Danielle worked on general schooling at home, getting Ceide Finn used to the arena environment, and familiarising him with the music and clapping sounds he would hear during the competition.
They placed fifth in the SEIB Search for a Star Working Show Horse class at the show at the NEC in Birmingham.
“It was amazing, absolutely amazing, like nothing else I’ve ever experienced in my life,” said Danielle.
“We got fifth place, which was unfortunately last in our class, but still, I think the main thing with the Horse of the Year Show is just qualifying to get there. We’ve got some really lovely memories and got some very nice comments from the judge.
“For us amateurs, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
Danielle is hoping to try to qualify for HOYS next year with her daughter’s horse.
“I think I’d be a bit less nervous this time if I got another chance,” said Danielle.
She is also hoping to qualify, for the third year in a row, for the Royal International Horse Show in 2026.
Pictured: Danielle and Ceide Finn competing / Credit 1st Class Images
