Competitors at the Royal Bath & West Show have the opportunity to qualify for the pinnacle of equine competition – the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS).

Across the shows three days, there will be 32 HOYS qualifying classes, including the double harness scurry, Mountain & Moorland and Show Hunter. And it's something that Lynn Russell, winner of last year's (2024) Harrod & Coles family Lightweight Family Cob of the year class knows a lot about, after her success at the show enabled her to compete at HOYS.

Lynn has been competing at the Bath and West Show for over 30 years. "I particularly enjoy it; it's one of my favourite shows." And she is hoping to qualify for HOYS again this year. "We had a successful time at HOYS last year, it would be great if we could qualify again."

Lynn has owned last year's Family Cob winner Canis Minor (stable name Crisp) since he was a youngster. "I bought him over from Ireland five years ago as an unbroken four-year-old, since then I've broken him myself.

"He has been reserve Irish Draft champion at the Bath and West Show previously and will be competing in the Lightweight Cob class at this year's Show, alongside my two other horses that I'm travelling down from Surrey with."

And Lynn is not just competing at this year's show; she will also be Judging. "This year I'm lucky enough to be judging the HOYS Ridden Hunters, (novice and weights) where I will be looking for horses with good movement and correct conformation.

"I have fond memories of judging this class in the past and I look forward to returning and seeing the quality of horses and riders this year has to offer."

So what should visitors expect at this year's show? "For the first time ever, we have qualifiers for the Welsh ridden classes," says Jess Chiplen, head of shows. "Adding another HOYS qualifier for these lovely Welsh ponies is really exciting and will undoubtedly showcase more exceptional talent.

"There is a special atmosphere in the equine area, where the dedication and partnership between horses and riders comes together," she adds.

"Anticipation for this year's show is growing; our equine area has something for everyone, and now with over 30 HOYS qualifiers, it continues be a big name in the equine competition circle."

·       The Royal Bath & West Show takes place on 29-31 May 2025 at The Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 6QN. Competition entries can be made by visiting www.bathandwest.com/royal-bath-and-west-show/competitions. Or to book tickets visit www.bathandwest.com/tickets