Congratulations are in order for Isle of Wight horse rider, Pip Smith, who last weekend picked up the National Pony Society/Baileys Horse Feeds M&M ridden pony of the year championship at the 2023 Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).
Vynnes Magical Edition (aka Mr Ed), who is Laura House and Andrew Vine’s home-bred seven-year-old pony, emerged as the judges’ overall champion after two days of judging.
The championship marked a monumental first for both the breeders and the rider, Pip Smith, as they clinched their first HOYS championship victory.
Travelled from the Island
The Forest-bred stallion, whose lineage apparently traces back to Applewitch Pure Magic and Brookshill Blackberry, journeyed from the Isle of Wight to compete at the prestigious HOYS event.
Pip, who lives on the Isle of Wight, said he was elated but also surprised at the win telling Horse and Hound that Mr Ed has the ability to be “a bit of a joker”.
Under the radar success
Despite being known to engage in typical pony antics and staying “under the radar” as Pip describes, the pony’s journey from casual countryside rides on the Isle of Wight to the esteemed victory at HOYS is nothing short of remarkable.
The victory not only brings immense joy and pride to Pip and the breeders, but also casts a spotlight on the capable and talented riders hailing from the Isle of Wight.
Well done Pip, Andrew and Simone, and of course, Mr Ed!
Source: Horse and Hound
