Remarkable Comeback Victory at Horse of the Year Show

In a stunning display of resilience and skill, Ireland’s Trevor Breen secured the prestigious Leading Showjumper of the Year title at the 2025 Horse of the Year Show on Sunday night. Riding his home-bred nine-year-old grey gelding Kannoon Blue, Breen delivered a flawless performance in the Grand Prix jump-off to claim the £16,000 top prize.

The victory holds special significance as it comes just 17 months after Breen suffered fractures to his lower neck and back following a fall at the Hamburg Grand Prix. His return to the top of the sport represents one of the most inspiring comeback stories in recent showjumping history.

Eight-Way Jump-Off Decides Championship

The competition reached its climax when eight combinations qualified for the decisive jump-off—six riders who posted clear rounds in the first phase, plus the two fastest four-faulters. The pressure-filled race against the clock tested both horse and rider partnerships at the highest level.

Breen and Kannoon Blue proved unbeatable, recording a second successive clear round that none of their rivals could match. The consistency and precision of the Irish pair ultimately separated them from a field of elite competitors.

British Riders Fill Podium Places

Sandy McLean partnered with Gino F to secure second place, whilst Robert Whitaker and Vermento claimed third. The competition showcased the depth of British showjumping talent, with Jodie Hall McAteer finishing fourth, John Whitaker fifth, and William Whitaker sixth.

Breen Praises ‘Phenomenal’ Kannoon Blue

Speaking after his victory, an emotional Breen paid tribute to his exceptional partner: “Kannoon Blue is a phenomenal horse. He is home-bred, and this guy is really coming of age this year. He is just getting better and better. I have always believed in him, and he ticks all the boxes—he has huge scope, is unbelievably careful and he is getting quicker.”

The rider expressed confidence in his mount’s future potential: “I really think that there is not much he won’t be able to do in the future.”

Journey from Hospital Bed to Championship Glory

Reflecting on his remarkable recovery, Breen revealed the extent of his rehabilitation: “I was out from Hamburg to just before Christmas last year. I got going again in Dubai, I won a Grand Prix out there, and just kicked on from there.”

“This year has been a phenomenal year. I couldn’t have dreamt of it when I was lying in the hospital bed in Hamburg. Huge thanks to my team—my family, my owners and staff at home. Without them I wouldn’t have been able to come back.”

Tribute to HOYS and Fellow Competitors

Breen also praised the prestigious venue and his fellow competitors: “This is a really cool show. All the riders love riding here. John Whitaker, a legend of the sport and last to go, I nearly wanted him to win myself!”

Six Bar Competition Ends in Five-Way Tie

Earlier in the day, the Thistledown Investments Six Bar competition produced an extraordinary five-way tie. Mark Edwards riding Tinkers Touch, Nathan Bull on Casaltonia – OS, John Whitaker with Sharid, Oliver Fletcher aboard Quintine Van D’Abdijhoeve, and Sebastian Hughes on Colorado Volo shared the honours after the final fence reached 1.95 metres.

The unique format sees six obstacles arranged in a row, with heights raised after each of a maximum five rounds. All five riders recorded four faults in the fifth and final jump-off round, proving inseparable and sharing the prize money equally.

HOYS 2025 Delivers Thrilling Finale

The 2025 Horse of the Year Show once again demonstrated why it remains one of the most prestigious events in the equestrian calendar. With world-class competition, dramatic jump-offs, and inspiring comeback stories, Sunday’s finale provided unforgettable moments for riders and spectators alike.

Trevor Breen’s victory with Kannoon Blue will be remembered not only for the quality of their performance but for the determination and courage required to return to championship-winning form after such serious injury.