A rider from Tadley has won the chance to compete at the prestigious Horse of the Year Show.
Hannah Horton and her thoroughbred ex-racehorse, Migration, won the competitive SEIB Insurance Brokers, Racehorse to Riding Horse qualifier held at the British Show Pony Society (BSPS) Area 7 Show at Aston-le-Walls in Northamptonshire.
There was just the one Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) ticket on offer in the class, which was judged by Jackie Beatham (conformation) and Sam DeCaprio (ride).
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Hannah and Migration, gifted to Anthony and Georgina Andrews and Hannah by the Gail Brown Racing Syndicate, were convincing winners on the day.
It is just over two years since 10-year-old Migration last ran on the racecourse.
He was in training with Sussex-based trainer, David Menuisier, for whom he won over £200,000 in win and place money, including winning the Lincoln Handicap in 2023.
This year will now mark Migration and Hannah’s third appearance in the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse final following a fourth place in the 2025 championship.
Hannah said: "Migration is stronger and more mature now.
"He’s spent the winter having a rest and then doing plenty of hacking, now he is more established he’s been doing less schooling.
"I’m delighted he’s qualified first time out as it takes the pressure off and we can enjoy the season."
SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse organiser, Nicolina Mackenzie of the Absolutely Genuine Company, said: "It was fabulous to get the 2026 running of SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse off to such a strong start.
"Our thanks go to Louise Gaunt and her team organising the BSPS Area 7 Show so well to give our competitors the chance to shine in the show ring."
The SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse Championship at Horse of the Year Show takes place on Wednesday, October 7 at Birmingham NEC.
Leading equine insurance brokers, SEIB Insurance Brokers, set up Racehorse to Riding Horse nearly 20 years ago to celebrate ex-racehorses and give them a chance of success in a second career.
SEIB has a long association with the showing world and is renowned for 'putting something back' by supporting many equestrian events and activities in addition to Search for a Star.
