The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
Gems Stud voted best breeder
Emotions run high at Equestrian Awards
Scotland’s leading equestrians converged in Aberdeen recently in celebration of the inaugural Scottish Equestrian Awards.
In excess of 6,200 votes were cast to determine the very first winners from 16 different categories that brought together the best equestrian stars from across all disciplines.
In total, 48 different combinations reached the glittering black tie awards ceremony, from an initial pool of more than 700 nominees.
“The 2016 awards proved a great success,” said organiser Sarah Tait.
“We’re certain the event will continue to grow and we’re excited to take it forwards to the future.”
Sarah, who ran the event alongside fellow Aberdeenshire equestrian John Karwl-Jackes, said the awards celebrated “everything equestrian”, but also provided an enjoyable and entertaining evening that allowed the equestrian fraternity to come together on an exciting new social basis.
In an emotional tribute to the late Richard Deptford, his Gems Stud, at Glenlatterach, Birnie, Elgin, was announced as the winner of Breeder of the Year.
Richard passed away in September last year, leaving a legacy of show-winning produce and top-class Welsh ponies.
Paying tribute to the “legend” Sherlene Murray, who works at Gems, collected the trophy.
“Dick would always act as though winning didn’t mean much to him,” Sherlene said. “He would say ‘they don’t need to win, for me to know they’re good’, but he would have been genuinely delighted to win the award.
“He was certainly not one to show his emotions, but deep down he would have been utterly humbled that people took the time to vote for him and his ponies. “They were what kept him going.” Celebrating a life influenced by horses, driving and dedicated to aiding those with disability, farmer’s wife Ruth Skinner, of Strathorn Farm, Pitcaple, gained the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Ruth has hosted Garioch Carriage Driving for the Disabled sessions at Strathorn for almost 30 years, in tandem to running a thriving livery and riding school and competing with Clydesdale horses alongside her husband George.
Since 1991 the farm has also provided a rural home for Strathbogie Riding for the Disabled group.
Meanwhile, Fife-based show organiser Fiona Reed was also among the winners, lifting the crown for Personality of the Year.
“I am truly flattered and honoured to have won Equestrian Personality of the Year,” said Fiona.
She said she felt the award reflected everyone that helped to bring her events to fruition: “The award really belongs to the amazing team of people who help to make them what they are, from judges to stewards, sponsors, helpers and competitors,” she said.
Fiona, who also runs a busy stud at Puddledub, Auchtertool, has been a stalwart of Scotland’s show scene for many years – personally organising around 10 events, from local to championship level, around the country each year, and assisting behind the scenes with many more.
Professional Fife rider Kirsty Aird lifted two awards, winning both the Rider of 2016 trophy and the best Working Hunter Horse Combination alongside her former Royal Highland Show champion and HOYS qualifier Toronto.