Equestrians Awarded MBEs in Recognition of Outstanding Contribution
Two influential figures in the equestrian world have been awarded MBEs in The King’s Birthday Honours List, recognising their outstanding contributions to horse welfare and industry standards.
Grace Muir: Champion for Racehorse Welfare and SEN Education
Grace Muir (feature image), Founder and CEO of HEROS Charity, has been appointed MBE for her lifelong commitment to retraining former racehorses and supporting young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN). HEROS, which became a registered charity in 2006, is renowned for its dual mission—offering second careers to ex-racehorses while providing a nurturing educational environment for children and teenagers who struggle in mainstream education.
Born into a family steeped in the racing and breeding industry, Grace has been working with horses from an early age. Her passion and drive led to the development of HEROS Education in 2015, funded by The Racing Foundation, further extending the charity’s impact to young people across the UK.
Reflecting on the award, Grace said:
“This is the biggest honour of my life, I am passionate about what I do, because I truly and wholly love my work, it’s my life. To be recognised and awarded an MBE on The King’s Birthday Honour’s List is incredible and beyond my wildest dreams… We won’t be resting here, as there is still so much work to do and I can’t wait to see what the next chapter of HEROS has in store.”
HEROS, now nearing its 20th anniversary, has transformed the lives of hundreds of horses and young people, embodying Grace’s vision of a brighter future for both.
Lucy Katan: Voice for the Unsung Heroes Behind the Scenes
Also recognised is Lucy Katan, founder and Executive Director of the British Grooms Association (BGA), who receives an MBE for her unwavering advocacy on behalf of professional grooms across the UK.
Since its founding in 2007, the BGA has grown under Lucy’s leadership into a nationally recognised body, offering grooms essential employment support, mental health resources, and representation within the wider equestrian industry. Lucy also helped establish the Equestrian Employers Association (EEA), promoting best practices among yard owners and managers.
Her work has led to significant advancements in employment rights and welfare standards for grooms, a group often overlooked despite their vital role in equestrian sport.
In response to the honour, Lucy said:
“I’m deeply honoured to receive this award. But this MBE isn’t just about me, it belongs to every groom who gets up at dawn, works in all weathers, and gives everything to the horses and riders they care for… This honour is proof that grooms matter – and that their contribution is finally being seen, respected, and celebrated.”
Shared Vision, Lasting Impact
While their paths have differed, both Grace Muir and Lucy Katan exemplify tireless dedication to equine welfare and human wellbeing. Their MBEs not only mark personal milestones but stand as important recognition of the individuals and communities they serve—on the ground, behind the scenes, and at the heart of the equestrian world.