The 2024/25 equestrian competition season marked another remarkable chapter for Hong Kong’s vibrant equestrian community. Throughout the year, both horses and riders demonstrated outstanding skill and sportsmanship, raising the bar for competitive excellence. To honour the exceptional accomplishments of the season’s leading partnerships, the Equestrian Federation of Hong Kong, China (EFHKC) presented the End of Season Awards in May 2025. The Club continued its valued sponsorship of the Hong Kong Jockey Club Best Retired Racehorse Award and the Best ‘Newcomer’ Retired Racehorse Awards, which recognise the impressive achievements of former racehorses who have excelled in their second careers.

Among this year’s many highlights, Come On Wongchoy stood out with a stellar season, clinching the top spot in the Horse of the Year rankings. This achievement made him a most deserving recipient of the prestigious Hong Kong Jockey Club Best Retired Racehorse Award for the third consecutive year. His versatility was on full display as he competed and shone across all three disciplines – Jumping, Dressage, and Eventing – showcasing the breadth of his talent.

The Hong Kong Jockey Club Best ‘Newcomer’ Retired Racehorse Award celebrates outstanding former racehorses making their debut in graded competition and excelling in their chosen disciplines. This season, Right Call from Beas River Equestrian Centre received the Best ‘Newcomer’ Award in Dressage, while Dionysus Collin earned the accolade in the Jumping category.

Among the season’s major highlights, the Jumping Horse of the Year Show stood out as a stage for Hong Kong riders to demonstrate their skills alongside international expertise. To take the event to the next level, the EFHKC once again invited world-renowned German course designer and Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) official Olaf Petersen to create the challenging jumping courses. Having served as course designer for the Olympic jumping competition on three occasions, Petersen is highly respected for his expertise. In addition to raising the level of competition for local riders, he also provided training sessions for local course designers, making a significant contribution to the professional development of equestrian sport in Hong Kong.

Caption: The Club’s Youth Squad rider Carrie Wang, partnering with Little Lady Van 'T Eigenlo

The season was also defined by the achievements of young riders, reflecting the strength of the Club’s Youth Equestrian Development Programme. Carrie Wang, a Youth Squad rider, partnered with Little Lady Van 'T Eigenlo to deliver consistant strong performances throughout the season. The rider-horse combination excelled in multiple rounds and clinched the overall championship titles in both the 110cm and 120cm divisions. Notably, Carrie also captured the highest honour in the annual show jumping competition – the Grimshaw Plate – showcasing her remarkable potential and bright future in the sport. These achievements are a testament to her dedication and the strong partnership she has developed with her horse.

Caption: Left to right – Olaf Petersen, Carrie Wang and Amanda Bond, Head of Equestrian Affairs

Equally noteworthy was fellow Youth Squad member Kaching Fu, who, riding the former racehorse Kingston Jumbo, displayed determination and perseverance throughout the season. Together, they accumulated the highest points in their class and ultimately earned the title of overall Champion in 100cm division. Their success, alongside that of their peers, highlights not only the talent and commitment of the young riders, but also the high standard of training and support provided by the Club’s Youth Equestrian Development Programme.

As the 2024/25 season draws to a successful close, looking back on the outstanding achievements of Hong Kong’s equestrian community over the past year is truly uplifting. Both seasoned riders and rising stars have worked together to steadily advance the sport locally. Looking ahead, the community is well-prepared and enthusiastic to embrace an even more exciting season to come.