We’re delighted to announce that Shannon Bonfield has been chosen as December’s Spotlight Award winner. As part of her award, Shannon wins a uvex exxential 3 riding helmet, courtesy of Zebra Products.
Presented jointly by The Howden Way and British Eventing, the Spotlight Award is a monthly recognition that celebrates individuals who embody the shared values of both organisations. Each month, British Eventing lead coaches are invited to nominate a recipient from their region who has been recognised for their contributions to the eventing community. The winner is then selected by Olympic Gold Medallist, Laura Collett, from a shortlist of contenders.
Coach Jo Rimmer nominated Shannon for the December Spotlight Award on behalf of the South West region. She said: “Shannon always puts her horse’s well-being first and is consistently thoughtful and considerate towards her peers. She remains incredibly modest despite her successes, and is an absolute delight to teach in every training session.”
Laura Collett, who has the pleasure of selecting the winning candidate, said: “Shannon embodies everything we look for in this award – dedication, humility and an unwavering commitment to her horse’s welfare, and it is for this reason that she has been selected. Her attitude and approach are exactly what our sport should celebrate, and she is a thoroughly deserving winner.”
Shannon commented: “Our partnership and journey really began in 2024. We started our British Eventing adventure with our first local BE at West Wilts in June, where we finished on a 27.3 dressage and a double clear. We went on to complete four more runs that season, which gave us a true taste of the eventing world and helped us understand our strengths and weaknesses – something we thoroughly enjoyed.
“Heading into the 2025 season, we focused on training and maintaining Ferodo’s fitness. At 17 years old, keeping him strong and feeling good is so important to his performance. We completed four BE80 runs, which qualified us for the BE80 Championships at Chillington Hall, where we finished 4th on a 26.6 dressage and another double clear.
“Ferodo and I were also selected for the U18s 80 team to represent the Southwest. So back up to Chillington we went – and we had a fantastic result, finishing 2nd on a 27.6 double clear.
“To finish the season, we stepped up to BE90. Our first run in the U18s at Bovington ended with a 2nd place, and then we headed to Tweseldown for the BE90, where we took the win on a 24 dressage and yet another double clear.
“Ferodo is an amazing event horse who truly loves his job. I’m so excited for our 2026 season with British Eventing. Together, we proudly represent the RAC Saddle Club at Bovington, RAC Pony Club, and the Southwest BE Under-18s.
“This award is a reminder of the partnership I have with Ferodo – and the journey we’re on. It’s a journey we love, together, enjoying every single stride. I’d also like to say huge thank you to trainers Stephanie Buchanan at RAC Saddle Club and south west trainers Jo Rimmer and Cameron Beer.”
The Howden Way and British Eventing are committed to fostering a culture of excellence, growth, and camaraderie, and the Spotlight Award is a testament to this shared commitment. Each month, a Grassroots (80-100) BE member is nominated by one of British Eventing's lead regional coaches based on their commitment to the following core values and attributes:
For more information on the Spotlight Award, visit here. To find out more about The Howden Way, click here.
For those wishing to join British Eventing, there is a 40% discount for new Pony Club and Riding Club members. For information on how to join, visit here