2025 Regional Celebration Awards

British Dressage was proud to celebrate the incredible achievements and dedication of our members and volunteers across the regions at this year’s Regional Celebration Awards, taking place on Thursday 9 October alongside the BD AGM at the National Conference Centre. 

The Regional Celebration Awards recognise the passion, perseverance and community spirit that make our sport thrive — from riders and coaches to judges, stewards, and volunteers. After receiving outstanding nominations from each of our six regions, an independent panel chaired by BD Chair Jill Day selected the winners from an exceptionally strong field.

Jill Day commented, “Every nominee represents the very best of British Dressage — their enthusiasm, generosity, and commitment to our values are what make this community so special. Congratulations to all of our winners and nominees for their outstanding contributions.”

The celebrations began with the My Quest Award, which recognises riders who embody the spirit of partnership at the heart of the Quest competitions. This year’s award was shared between Carron Saunders from South & West and Joanne Williams from Wales. Carron was commended for her determination and courage in progressing from Quest to other affiliated competitions, developing a wonderful bond with her horse Selene and inspiring others through her journey. Joanne’s story is equally inspiring; just five years ago she was a happy hacker, and today she competes confidently at British Dressage competitions with her beloved 26-year-old horse, My Ballyman Manuel. Through My Quest and Team Quest, she has grown from Intro to Novice level, encouraging others to join her team, Team Jenks, along the way.

The Team Quest Award went to the WMDG Bluebirds from the North & West region. Formed in 2017, the Bluebirds have become a shining example of teamwork and dedication. Under the mentorship of Carrol and Geoff Simpson, the team has enjoyed consistent success, including multiple top-six finishes and an impressive third place at the Quest Championships in 2023. Their enthusiasm and camaraderie have made them a standout presence both within their region and on the national stage.

In the Para Rider category, two outstanding members of the BD community shared the award — Karen Hale from North & West and Lesley McNaughton-Wells from Scotland. Lesley’s achievements are remarkable; she has trained and produced her own horses to championship level, including a double win at the 2025 Para Winter Championships, while also volunteering and mentoring others with tireless dedication. Karen was praised for her talent and positivity, representing BD North & West at the 2025 Para Home Nations with her horse For Fun Two, and offering guidance and encouragement to fellow riders across her region.

The Youth Rider Award also had two deserving winners: North & East's Grace Smith and Sofia Sewell-Davies from Wales. Grace’s journey is one of courage and resilience. Having overcome Leukaemia, she has gone on to achieve remarkable success in dressage, competing at Youth Inter Regionals, Home Nations, and National Championships, whilst producing her pony to Medium level. Sofia, meanwhile, was recognised for her leadership and enthusiasm as a BD Youth Panel member and for representing Wales at the Youth Inter Regionals and Home Nations. Balancing her studies with riding and caring for two young horses, Sofia continues to inspire her peers with her positivity and professionalism.

In the Senior Rider category, the honours were shared between Kirstie Wright from North & West and Helen James from South & West. Kirstie is a cornerstone of her region's team activity, competing successfully for her area and achieving championship results at the Cavago Part Bred Native Championships, Area Festivals and Nationals. Helen, equally inspiring, has been described as the heartbeat of her region — a rider, volunteer, and supporter whose energy and kindness lift everyone around her. A familiar face at events, she contributes in every possible way, from stewarding to cheering others on, always embodying the community spirit of British Dressage.

The Steward Award was presented to Margaret Parker from Scotland, whose tireless commitment has had a profound impact on dressage north of the border. Recognising a shortage of qualified stewards, Margaret took it upon herself to train and progress through the levels, while mentoring others to do the same. Her leadership and generosity ensure that Scottish competitions run smoothly and to the highest standard.

For her exceptional dedication to rider development, Emma Jablonski from the North & East was presented with the Coach Award. An accredited coach and BD Youth Assessor, Emma plays a key role in training initiatives and mentoring new coaches, with her enthusiasm and commitment inspiring riders across her region.

The Judge Award went to Lotte Olsen from BD South & East, who was recognised for her professionalism, reliability and willingness to go above and beyond. Whether judging, stewarding, or lending a hand behind the scenes, Lotte’s commitment to the sport and her generosity of spirit make her an invaluable member of the BD community.

The Volunteer Award was awarded to Sheona McNeill from Scotland, whose service to dressage spans more than three decades. Always smiling and ready to help, Sheona has supported events across the country as a steward, writer, and organiser, becoming a cherished figure in her community. Now 80 years young, she continues to dedicate her time and energy to the sport she loves, inspiring everyone with her kindness and commitment.

The evening concluded with the Outstanding Contribution Award, which was presented to Linda Waller in recognition of her impact on British Dressage and its judging community. Linda played a pivotal role in developing the judges’ education programme and single-handedly reformatted and updated the Judges’ Handbook — a cornerstone of the current education system. A dedicated judge herself, she continues to officiate at every level of competition, always striving to enhance her skills and support others.

Congratulations to all nominees and award winners, British Dressage is immensely proud of the regional communities and those who give their time and expertise to ensure they remain at the heart of affiliated activity.