The native pony championship at the London International Horse Show (LIHS), organized by the British Show Pony Society, is a prestigious event judged uniquely by four judges—two for performance and two for conformation. Samantha Darlington, a seasoned producer and former competitor with deep roots in showing, serves as one of the performance judges. She brings a wealth of experience, having ridden and produced various native breeds herself, and understands the pressures competitors face at such a high-profile event. The scoring is transparent during the show, but final results remain a surprise until all judges’ marks are combined.

Samantha’s judging criteria focus on ponies that move freely and naturally, with a good rhythm and without stiffness, alongside a balanced and efficient performance. She values a natural, unforced way of going and appreciates a good gallop that is controlled and not overly extended. Her extensive background, including producing successful ponies and nurturing her daughter Georgia’s achievements in working hunter classes, informs her approach to judging, emphasizing fairness and the unique qualities each pony brings to the ring.