A contingent of Britain’s top show jumpers boycott HOYS

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There's been somewhat of a revolt in the equestrian show jumping world with a contingent of British riders boycotting the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in favour of the five-star Onassis International in Athens.

Four of the top five British riders, Robert Smith, Nick Skelton and John and Michael Whitaker are opting for the international horse show for varying reasons, not least for the increased prize money.

Robert Smith commented: 'There is a E100,000 [�68,300] prize to the winner in one class alone in Athens; the grand prix top prize at HOYS is �7,500, so there's no contest.'

Other bones of contention lay with the treatment of competitors at HOYS.

Nick Skelton commented: 'There is no contest between the shows in terms of prize-money, but HOYS doesn't do a lot for the riders it's all one way. We don't get treated at HOYS like we do at foreign shows.'

Top show jumpers going abroad to richer horse shows is not a new issue in the equestrian world, and the director of HOYS sees this as a matter of course.

“Unfortunately, you're not always going to get all the top riders, because they're always going to be invited to richer shows in Europe. Prize-money is now topping �100,000 across the show. Riders would rather see increases across all classes than just one class.'

However, all is not lost for the organisers of HOYS as many top show jumping riders are still going to be in attendance, including Ellen and Robert Whitaker, Mark Armstrong, Guy Williams as well as crowd favourite Geoff Billington who last qualified for the event two years ago on a wild card.

Both Michael and John Whitaker stated that it was merely prize money that they chose to go to Athens.

Michael commented: 'I enjoy jumping at HOYS.'

For information about HOYS go to www.hoys.co.uk.

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