Following the tremendous success of the inaugural London International Showing Series in 2023, London International Horse Show is set to once again host the Series finals from 18 – 22 December in the New Horizon Plastics London Arena. This year’s event will feature 21 classes offering a wide variety of competition, such as the Agria Rising Star Racehorse to Show Horse and the BSPS Junior Performance Pony. New for 2024 is the BSPS Heritage First Ridden Working Sports Pony Class.
The London International Showing Series has gained a reputation as an esteemed yet inclusive competition, encouraging participation from amateurs with home-produced horses and ponies. Qualifiers were held at 52 agricultural and county shows across the country over the spring and summer and the Series has led to a significant rise in entries, showcasing the passion and dedication within the Showing community. The finals will not only crown Champions but will also celebrate the hard work, perseverance, and commitment demonstrated by all competitors throughout the year.
Speaking about the finals of the London International Showing Series, Nigel Hollings, Chief Showing Steward at the Show commented: “The Showing finals at London International Horse Show are truly unique and exciting, as they are the only Showing finals held in the capital city. I’m absolutely thrilled to be Chief Showing Steward at London International this year, it is going to be a good one!”
Many riders are over the moon to have earned a spot at one of Britain’s most renowned equestrian events and the opportunity to compete at London International Horse Show marks the fulfilment of a lifelong dream. Among the finalists is Danielle Boot and her striking piebald horse, Lucky Llamedos (Paddy), who have qualified for the New Horizon Plastics Coloured Native/Cob/Traditional Horse/Pony final. Danielle and Paddy, who enjoy hacking, jumping, and even side saddle, have achieved one of Danielle’s childhood dreams by earning their place to compete at the distinguished Show.
Several competitors are returning to the finals for the second year running. Lisa Marshall and her six-year-old heavyweight cob, Cracker, who was gifted to her by her husband for her 40th birthday, will once again compete in the Rising Star Heavyweight Cob Class. Jo Rose and Castle Wizzard (Roy) are also returning after competing last year in the BSPS Performance Pony not exceeding 158cm category having secured qualification again this year on their first attempt.
Other inspiring qualifying stories include Lucy Richards-Lowe and her horse, Toptime Spargo, who was purchased as an unbroken five-year-old for just £400 and the combination are now, eight years on, set to compete in the New Horizon Plastics London Arena this December. Additionally, appearing this year is Grace Morgan and her pony, Treflan Robin Goch (Larry), who only began Showing last year. After watching the BSPS Performance Pony class at the Show last year, Grace was inspired to ‘give it a real go’ and has qualified for the very same class for ponies not exceeding 148cm.
The London International Showing Series was developed in partnership with the British Show Pony Society (BSPS), the British Show Horse Association (BSHA), and the Association of Show and Agricultural Organisations (ASAO). The Series’ ‘Rising Star’ classes, open exclusively to amateur members of the BSHA who have produced their own horses, provide a unique platform for competitors to showcase their skills in a supportive, peer-driven environment. The BSPS classes are open to all, with a key emphasis on pony performance. Both BSPS and BSHA are committed to supporting the finalists at every step, offering guidance and expertise as they prepare for the December finals.
Simon Brooks-Ward, Show Director of London International Horse Show, stated: “We are thrilled to be hosting the finals of the London International Showing Series for the second year in a row. It is great hearing the stories of those who have qualified, and we are excited to witness the action unfold in the New Horizon Plastics London Arena.”
The London International Showing Series starts on Wednesday 18 December, to purchase tickets, please click here.
