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3 minute read
September Spotlight Award winner is announced
We’re delighted to announce that Caroline Norton-Cox has been chosen as September’s Spotlight Award winner. As part of her award, Caroline 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 Will Murray nominated Caroline for the September Spotlight Award on behalf of the Northern region. He said: “Caroline fits riding her pony around a very busy career and has enjoyed a great season this year riding at BE events. She won the BE80 at Forgandenny and stepped up successfully to BE90 mid-season. She spent a long time looking for the pony but he has been a great find!”
Laura Collett, who has the pleasure of selecting the winning candidate, said: “Caroline’s story really stood out to me – it’s clear how much dedication, heart and hard work she puts into her eventing alongside a demanding career. Her journey with Shady is what grassroots eventing is all about: perseverance, partnership, and passion. It’s so inspiring to see how she’s progressed through the levels and is now aiming for championships with a pony she clearly adores. She’s a brilliant example of the spirit we celebrate through the Spotlight Award.”
Caroline commented: “I was lucky enough to find Shady after a two-year search in January 2023. He took me to my first BE at Warwick Hall that year and we haven’t looked back. We stepped up to 90 this season and gave regional championships a shot in the 80 class. I’m hoping to qualify next season for Lemieux Badminton Grassroots championship and the Aspen Cooling BE80 championship too. He’s a really wonderful family pony, Mr Reliable who has made my eventing dreams come true. I feel very lucky to have him and to be out eventing which has been a dream of mine for many years.
“Regional training in the area could not be headed up by a more experienced, inclusive and knowledgeable coach. It’s brilliant to have Will Murray offer such a broad range of events in the area. There really is no excuse for shying away from winter training.
“I’m just delighted to have won the award. Horses and the opportunity to event are my hobby around a very busy job and lifestyle. I put so much effort and time into improving our way of going. I cannot wait for the 2026 season. It’s wonderful to not only be part of this sport but to be recognised too. Thank you so much.”
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:
- 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
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