Four famous names have become the latest stars of the horse world to become inducted into the prestigious British Horse Society (BHS) hall of fame.
Olympic gold medal winners Valegro and Big Star represented the equine heroes, while William Funnell and Jane Holderness-Roddam were selected as riders.
Jane joins her sister, Jennie Loriston-Clarke in the hall of fame, while William joins his wife Pippa — making them the first husband and wife team to be recognised.
“It’s a tremendous honour,” said Jane, who was the first British woman to compete in eventing at an Olympics, at Mexico in 1968.
“Really it’s not just for me, it’s for all the people and horses along the way that have helped me to get where I am today. It’s a great feeling to see my plaque up there on the wall with all those superstars.”
William added: “When you see all the great names that are on the wall, to be up there with them feels very special.”
Carl Hester said the equestrian world is “so lucky” to have a celebration of talent such as this.
“Valegro has been such a massive part of the success of British dressage that this recognition is not just for us, but for everyone that’s supported him and seen him go from strength to strength,” he added.
Valegro’s owner Roly Luard said she was “very, very proud of the horse, very proud of the rider and very proud of the trainer.
“We feel so lucky and privileged to be here on this fantastic day, I won’t forget this ever,” she said.
Big Star’s owners Beverley and Gary Widdowson added: “We are honoured to be here, Big Star has done us proud. We are very privileged to own a horse like him – his name certainly befits him!”
The BHS Hall of Fame celebrates the heroes and heroines — human and equine — of the equestrian world.
A ceremony was held last week (1 December) at the Household Cavalry’s Knightsbridge barracks.
> Members of the public may cast their vote to nominate equestrians and horses as laureates. Email: halloffame@bhs.org.uk
