A former Cumbrian racehorse is heading back to Horse of the Year Show after continuing a remarkable start to his career in the show ring.
Scot’s Gold, who was previously trained by Lizzie Quinlan at Bolton Mill, Wigton, has qualified for this year’s prestigious championship at Birmingham’s NEC after winning a qualifier at the North of England Summer Show in Formby.
Owned by Diane Wilson and ridden by Jacqueline Williamson, the thoroughbred topped the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse class on June 28 to secure his place at what is widely regarded as one of the UK’s biggest equestrian events.
The result comes after a standout season for Scot’s Gold, who has already enjoyed success at several major shows and remains unbeaten this year.
For Diane and Jacqueline, qualification for HOYS has become something of a habit. The pair bought Scot’s Gold only last summer and quickly discovered they had a horse with plenty of potential.
In his first season out of racing, he qualified for the Horse of the Year Show and went on to finish reserve champion in the Racehorse to Riding Horse final.
Speaking after the latest qualification, Diane said: “We bought Scot’s Gold last June and he qualified straightaway for HOYS and did so well.
“We weren’t expecting it as we knew there was lots’ we needed to work on and improve.”
She added: “Scot’s Gold is maturing all the time and, touch wood, is unbeaten so far this season.”
The horse’s recent achievements include being crowned champion at the Dumfries and Galloway Show and taking the overall racehorse title at the Royal Highland Show.
He has also already secured qualification for the Royal International Horse Show in 2027.
Diane said the horse was purchased from former SEIB Search for a Star finalist Will Moreton.
Adding: “We saw Scot’s Gold advertised and got in touch with Will straightaway.
“I’ve had ex-racehorses before with Jacqueline, including the very successful Scarlett Dragon.”
Scot’s Gold is one of a growing number of former racehorses proving their versatility after leaving the track, with the Racehorse to Riding Horse classes showcasing how thoroughbreds can enjoy successful second careers.
The Wigton horse will now head to Birmingham in October, where he will be aiming to go one better than last year and challenge for the championship title under the bright lights of the Horse of the Year Show arena.
