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4 minute read
January Spotlight Award winner is announced
The Howden Way and British Eventing are proud to jointly present the Spotlight Award, a monthly recognition that celebrates individuals who embody the shared values of both organisations.
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:
- Prioritising horse welfare and athlete wellness
- Embracing and supporting a collaborative, inclusive environment in training and or competition
- Emphasising personal growth and skill development
- Exhibiting sportsmanship and serving as a positive role model
We’re delighted to announce that Millie Plumb (18) has been chosen as January’s Spotlight Award winner. As part of her award, Millie wins a uvex exxential II riding helmet, courtesy of Zebra Products.
Coaches Emily Lochore and Kirsty Short nominated Millie for the January Spotlight Award on behalf of the East region. She said: “Millie is a hard-working girl and has shown resilience and strength in a hard time for any person, let alone a U18. Her season last year was completely turned upside down when her horse Casper had colic and some other complications. Thankfully, he is now fit and well but we were impressed with how Millie didn't give up on Casper and helped nurse him back to health. The pair are now back out starting to do low-level training again, and we wish them both the best of luck.”
Laura Collett, who has the pleasure of selecting the winning candidate, said: “Horses certainly know how to keep us grounded, and it’s how we cope with these challenges that show who we really are. It must have been tough for Millie to see her horse suffering in that way, and its testament to her character that she stood by him and put everything into getting him better again. To see them back out training is proof that dedication and care does pay off. I wish her and Casper a healthy and happy season.”
Millie commented: “My horse Curolea Mika (Casper) and I have been together since May 2022, and he has enabled me to achieve some amazing things. In 2023 I had my first BE win at Solihull BE100 u18, and we were double clear at every event all year! We were delighted to be on the Eastern team at Bishop Burton in the 100 u18 champs and we ended up winning, which was so surreal! We also finished second in the BE100 OBP League beating over 95% of BE100 competitors. He is just the most amazing horse - he gives me the most incredible feeling cross-country, and loves being out competing. He has made me the rider I am today and I am so grateful to his owner for letting me ride him.
“After the first event of the year in 2024, Casper had to undergo emergency colic surgery for a lipoma which had grown round his small intestine. It was such an incredibly tough year for us all, and it was touch and go for a very long time. He missed the whole 2024 season as his recovery wasn't straightforward, but he is so strong and determined to do what he loves best. He is now fighting fit and feeling better than ever! We have done lots of training over the winter and are ready for the 2025 season. We are aiming to step up to Novice this season, so it will be an exciting year for us, but whatever the season holds, I'm just so happy to be back on board my best friend.
“Being part of the U18 team at Bishop Burton was such a fantastic experience. All of the coaches and team mates were super supportive and helpful, especially on the final day when everyone is feeling the pressure! The Youth training is brilliant, from the day camps to the training sessions, they all are super useful, especially over the off season, where we can work on improving so much before the busy season ahead. We have some new coaches in our region this year and I'm really looking forward to training with them and getting to know them better!”
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 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. The winner is then selected by Olympic Gold Medallist, Laura Collett, from a shortlist of contenders.
For more information on the Spotlight Award, visit 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