Louise and Nancy Lyons secure five HOYS qualifications between them at Northern Ireland Festival
An Irish Olympian and her talented 11-year-old daughter have taken the Working Hunter world by storm, securing an impressive five Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) qualifications between them at May’s Northern Ireland Festival.
Louise Lyons and daughter Nancy, based in Kilkenny, demonstrated the depth of their equestrian talent with their diverse string of ponies and horses, proving that success truly runs in the family.
From Olympics to HOYS
Louise’s equestrian journey began in lead rein classes in her native Cheshire before representing Ireland at the highest level – competing at the 2007 European Championships and 2008 Beijing Olympic Games in eventing. Now a mother of three, she has successfully transitioned to Working Hunter competition, where consistent success has become her trademark.
This marks Louise’s sixth HOYS qualification, having previously claimed runner-up honours on three occasions. Her 2025 campaign centers around Clandeboye, a 7-year-old full Irish Draught she has produced from a youngster. The pair already boast impressive credentials, having won the Working Hunter Championship at the 2024 Dublin Horse Show.
“He’s a real gentleman—so kind you could put a child on him and he’d canter around quite happily,” Louise explained. “I’m excited to qualify for HOYS with him. He’s an exciting prospect and I hope he can handle the atmosphere.”
Rising Star Nancy
Eleven-year-old Nancy proved she’s inherited her mother’s competitive spirit, securing four HOYS tickets across three different ponies in what can only be described as a record-setting weekend.
Leading her charge was Newydd Lady Marmalade, a 12-year-old Welsh Section D pony who delivered double success, qualifying in both the Jacksons of Yorkshire M&M 143cm Working Hunter Pony and NPS/Mole Valley Farmers 143cm Working Hunter Pony classes.
Tynffrwd Carys, a 6-year-old Section B mare who was part of Nancy’s 2023 HOYS campaign, returned to winning form in the Jacksons of Yorkshire M&M 122cm Working Hunter Pony category. This reliable “all-rounder” is beloved by all three Lyons children for her trustworthy nature and toughness.
Completing the success story was Dartans Seoda Ban, a promising 4-year-old mare purchased earlier this year. In just a few months, she has qualified for both the RIHS and now HOYS in the NPS/Mole Valley Farmers 133cm Working Hunter Pony class. Her foundation training through the North Kilkenny Pony Club has clearly paid dividends in her rapid development.
Family Affair
This remarkable haul of qualifications showcases the Lyons family’s dedication to equestrian sport and their ability to produce horses and ponies across multiple categories. With HOYS 2025 taking place from 8th-12th October, all eyes will be on this talented duo as they aim to convert their qualifications into championship success.
The story perfectly embodies the spirit of British and Irish equestrian sport – where Olympic experience meets grassroots development, and where the next generation learns from the very best.
