The Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) has made some changes to its rulebook, including the removal of the mandatory Joint Measurement Board (JMB) certificate for certain native pony breeds, which has been well-received by competitors. Another positive change is the split of the M&M lead-rein class into separate Welsh and non-Welsh classes, reducing waiting times for participants. However, the introduction of mixed height children’s riding pony classes at the expense of traditional height splits has raised concerns about younger children competing against older riders.

In addition to rule changes, the equestrian sport industry is facing increased scrutiny from the public, leading to a focus on ethical practices, responsible horse care, and transparent competition conditions. Competitors are urged to be mindful of their actions both in and out of the ring, as social media exposure can have a significant impact on the perception of the sport. Setting a high standard of conduct is essential to maintaining the industry’s social license and attracting support from sponsors who value integrity.

As expectations in equestrian sport evolve, it is important for competitors to lead by example and prioritize ethical practices to ensure the industry’s growth and reputation. The rise of social license emphasizes the need for transparency, responsible horse care, and ethical training methods in order to meet the public’s expectations and maintain support from sponsors.