Amongst the selected panel is Australian, Steph Barrington whose accolades in the show arena precede themselves. Steph has won the elusive Garryowen Championship not once but twice in 2012 and 2025.
“I’ve heard wonderful things about the Horse of the Year Show; it has been on my bucket list to go and be a spectator. I am very honoured to have been asked to judge at such a prestigious show, and am very much looking forward to it,” Steph shares with Equestrian Life.
Return to 2024 judging format
Following positive feedback from competitors and stakeholders in 2024, Horse of the Year Show will once again adopt this judging format for 2026. Judges for each section will not be announced until the evening before each final, reinforcing our commitment to fairness and transparency.
As the sport continues to evolve, the show remains committed to adapting and modernising. This approach builds on what the committee have implemented before and continues to bring a fresh perspective to HOYS, ensuring all competitors can perform on a level playing field.
Alongside these developments, the welfare of horses remains paramount. The committee encourages all competitors to familiarise themselves with their welfare guidelines and competition requirements, available in the official HOYS Rulebook.
Emma Williams, Event Director said:
“We received an abundance of positive feedback when we introduced this judging format previously, and it was clear that competitors valued this fresh approach. By confirming a world-class panel while withholding individual allocations until the finals, we are able to maintain transparency and ensure every competitor enters the arena with confidence in the process.”
The following judges will make up the core panel for Horse of the Year Show 2026, with further additions to be announced closer to the event:
- Mrs Deborah Alderson
- Ms Stephanie Barrington
- Mr Jonathon Carnduff
- Mrs Glenis Cockbain
- Miss Lucinda Elliott
- Mr Hayden Hankey
- Mr John James
- Miss Rachel Moore Rooney
- Ms Meg Nicholls
- Mrs Tina O’Brien
- Mr Jim O’Brien
- Ms Ann Rushton Green
- Mr Randy Robertson
- Miss Sacha Shaw
- Mrs Helen Starkie
- Ms Julie Templeton
- Mr Chris Yates
Horse of the Year Show takes place from 7th – 11th October 2026, and looks forward to welcoming competitors, owners and spectators to another unforgettable Championships.
