New Years Honours List – Equestrians
The New Years Honours List has been released and amongst the inspirational people named are a number of heros within the equestrian world.
Former jockey, Bob Champion has been appointed a CBE for charitable services to prostate and testicular cancer research. Bob was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 1979 and given only weeks to live and racehorse Aldaniti had a serious leg injury. However both overcame these to famously win the 1981 Grand National.
Following the Grand National win Bob was appointed a MBE. He also set up of the Bob Champion Cancer Trust, as many of those who had backed him sent their winnings to the Royal Marsden Hospital. The trust has raised over £15 million.
Nick Rust, CEO of the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has been appointed an OBE for services to horseracing.
BHA board member and chairman of the Racecourse Association Maggie Carver has been appointed a CBE for services to sport and the media sector.
Former Professional Jockeys Association chairman Nigel Payne has been appointed an MBE for services to British horseracing and to charity, “particularly during the Covid-19 response”.
Samantha Orde, Chairman for Riding for the Disabled Association chairman and director of English Federation of Disability Sport has been appointed an OBE, for services to people with disabilities.
Co-founder of Milton Keynes children’s charity Ride High, which works with horses to transform the lives of severely disabled and troubled children, Alan Oddie has been appointed an MBE was appointed MBE for services to the community in Milton Keynes.
Mary Smart, who retired after 36 years as financial controller of the Hertfordshire Agricultural Society last June, has been awarded the British Empire Medal for services to agriculture
Congratulations to all who have been recognised in the New Years Honours List.