The Highland Pony Society commemorated their Centenary Year with a special display at Horse of the Year Show 2023. The organization expressed gratitude to the show for providing arena time on the final day.
Display Components
The exhibition featured multiple categories of Highland Ponies:
- Working pony: Led by Kate Hawes with Whitefield Prince Valiant
- Driving ponies: Two teams showcasing the breed’s versatility
- In-hand presentations: Three entries including a foal display
- Ridden ponies: Four mounted demonstrations
- Musical accompaniment: Pipers and drummers provided traditional entertainment
Notable Participants
Former President Sylvia Ormiston MVO received special recognition, invited to recite “Ode to the Horse” during the finale. Choreography by Erik Mackechnie-Guire coordinated the entire presentation, which featured approximately 15 handlers, riders, and support personnel.
The breed achieved significant visibility by being featured in HOYS’s 2023 finale. The society worked with ClipMyHorseTV to share footage of the performance, extending their Centenary celebration reach beyond attendees at the show.