John Harvey was overcome with emotion as he led the Supreme Products Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) 2025 supreme champion pony, Elmswood Spring Parade (Simba), bred by himself and Brogan West, with six-year-old Florence Rendall riding. This victory was especially meaningful as Simba had previously faced a life-threatening illness—guttural pouch mycosis—requiring two risky operations and a month-long hospital stay. Despite this, Simba made a remarkable recovery and went on to win multiple championships, including the lead-rein final and mini championship just a day before the supreme title.

Simba, owned and led by John but produced by Florence’s mother, Rachael Helliwell, has formed a strong bond with Florence, who rides him mainly off the lead at home. The pair, who were second at the Royal International Horse Show, remain lightly shown with plans to compete in first riddens next year. Florence’s spontaneous decision to perform part of their supreme show one-handed added a memorable touch to their winning performance, highlighting the pony’s exceptional training and partnership with his young rider.