A magical HOYS moment for Gracie-May Whitaker and Thistledown Wood Owl!

Six-year-old Welsh Section A Thistledown Wood Owl, known at home as Birdie, proved himself the ultimate showman as he added the Supreme Pony crown to his impressive collection of titles under the lights at Horse of the Year Show. ✨ Ridden by Martin Wood’s granddaughter Gracie-May Whitaker, Birdie floated down that famous centre line to create another special chapter in the Whitaker family’s HOYS history. “I turned round and all the Whitakers were stood there… I can’t ever explain the feeling,” said proud mum Michaela. “That pony is absolutely amazing… he just floated and looked after her.” A dream come true and a moment this family will never forget. ❤️🏆 #HOYS2026 #HorseOfTheYearShow #SupremePony #ThistledownWoodOwl #WelshPony #Showing