Highlights of this year’s Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) will be broadcast on free-to-view television on Channel 4 two weeks after the event.

The 90-minute highlights package will be hosted by Countryfile presenter Matt Baker, dressage rider Gemma Owen and para dressage rider Tegan Vincent-Cooke and will be produced by West Wales-based production company Carlam Ltd. 

“We are absolutely thrilled to be partnering with Channel 4 to bring the magic of Horse of the Year Show to a national audience,” said Emma Wardell, event director of Horse of the Year Show.

“HOYS is the pinnacle of the equestrian calendar – not just a competition, but a celebration of excellence, heritage, and passion. 

“This programme will give viewers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the dedication and joy that define HOYS, showcasing the stories of our riders, horses, and supporters in a way that truly captures the heart of the show.”

Five days of action

HOYS, which first ran in 1949, will take place at NEC Birmingham from Wednesday 8 – Sunday 12 October. The five days of competition features everything from showing to showjumping, mounted games to dressage. The show welcomes 1,600 horses and ponies, 1,500 competitors and 60,000 spectators each year.

“Hold your Horses. There is no more ardent and committed group than the equine community, so it’s brilliant to be broadcasting the Horse of the Year for everybody’s enjoyment,” said Joe Turner- Blake, commissioning editor for Sport at Channel 4.

“We’re chomping at the bit to saddle up with Matt, Gemma and Tegan, but the stars of the show, sorry – mane attraction, will of course be the horses themselves.” 

Broadcast details will be released in due course.

Images © 1st Class Images.

Further reading