At the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS), a rare grey Shire gelding named Cardington Billy Bob, ridden by Emma Green, won the Barber Family British ridden heavy horse championship. Billy Bob, a six-year-old son of Burlington Park Loose Valley, was purchased unseen as a three-year-old and has exceeded expectations with his calm and genuine nature. Emma, who previously won the final in 2022 with a different horse, aims to continue showing Billy Bob, highlighting the rarity and importance of promoting grey Shire horses, which are considered at risk due to declining numbers.

The runner-up in the championship was another Shire, Acle Mojo, an eight-year-old stallion handled by David Drake and owned by Neil Wray. Mojo, bred by Bryan Banham, has steadily improved over three years of showing and was purchased as an unbroken five-year-old. Despite his success, Mojo’s future in showing is uncertain as his owners plan to focus on younger horses. Both horses underscore the challenges and dedication involved in preserving the rare Shire breed in modern times.