Despite the usual mercurial weather in Lincolnshire, characterised by bright sunshine, sharp winds, biting cold and heavy rain, the 2026 Indoor Championships proved to be vibrant and well attended. The event showcased a notable improvement in the standard of driving, reflecting the hard work and dedication invested over recent years.

Event Organisation and Volunteers

The team behind the Indoor Championships is now solidly established, demonstrating strong skill sets across all areas. A large contingent of volunteers, smartly dressed in navy blue jackets, hats and bright blue tabards sponsored by Hugh and Karen Scott Barrett, contributed significantly to the event’s success.

Without these volunteers, the championships simply would not take place. Special thanks are owed to the core group who braved the elements for two or three days, ensuring the event ran smoothly. Their cheerful disposition and helpfulness were invaluable, particularly with the challenge of managing two indoor arenas, two warm-up arenas and a cones arena, all coordinated on an interlinking timetable. Excellent work by all involved!

Welfare and Stewarding

This year, a Welfare Officer was introduced to oversee a comprehensive array of tasks, including stable welfare, warm-up welfare, competitor welfare, tack and harness fit, and conduct during driving. Working alongside the POJ, Vet, TD, and main stewards, the Welfare Officer ensured there were no major concerns. All competitors were informed of the role and remained mindful of their animals and behaviour throughout the event.

Media Coverage and Responsibilities

In light of social licence to operate and the influence of social media, every participant has a responsibility to present the sport positively. With Horse and Country filming the main indoor arena activities over two of the three days, it was particularly important that driving and equine presentation were of the highest standard, as any lapses would not reflect well on the sport.

Competitive Classes and Standards

The classes were well filled and many competitors found themselves needing to elevate their performance to qualify for the championships. Qualification required achieving specific score percentages, a necessary standard that some found challenging, but ultimately, the best drivers rose to the occasion. Those who narrowly qualified now are motivated to improve before next year.

Veterans and Emerging Talent

It was heartening to see familiar faces returning. The veterans’ class was fiercely contested, where experience and age often triumphed over speed. While younger drivers brought energy and pace, there are still skills to be mastered before they become truly unstoppable.

Pony and Horse Classes

Ponies of all ages and sizes competed, with the VSE class receiving commendable participation. The VSE group has made significant strides in ensuring welfare and sensible weight management. Novice drivers, many attending their first major competition, performed admirably, while last year’s novices now competing as intermediates demonstrated clear progression. The Open Pony class was particularly competitive, featuring seasoned drivers and ponies vying for the top spot.

Horse classes also performed well, despite the challenges posed by some indoor venues being snug for larger horses. Nevertheless, they displayed athletic ability and smooth driving, with some achieving impressive scores.

Within the pony team class, the greatest size diversity was evident, ranging from small Shetlands and Welsh Sec A to the much larger Team of Fells. Special mention goes to Luis Muira, who confidently drove Jane Robinson’s Fells to a commendable second place in a highly competitive class.

Drivers with Disabilities

The Drivers with Disabilities class continues to grow and remains highly competitive. The teamwork required to bring these combinations together is immense. Despite the added challenges of access, cold and physical restrictions, these competitors demonstrate exceptional determination and drive to win. Their ponies respond remarkably to varied signals and expectations and the competitors never blame their ponies, the weather, or their own restrictions—a lesson for all.

Children’s Challenge

The Children’s Challenge served as a World Cup-style introduction for juniors who did not qualify for the main junior classes. Many attended the main arena on Friday afternoon to observe, providing valuable experience for these budding drivers as they tested their skills.

Supreme Title and Notable Achievements

Among the many class winners, the coveted supreme title was awarded to Georgina Hunt (Frith), driving Isabel and Tim Bailey’s mare. Her performance demonstrated exceptional skill and experience, especially given the mare’s challenging nature. Georgina’s focused approach and commitment were exemplary, drawing on her previous successes with pony and horse teams. Adding to the family’s achievements, her daughter Sophie was the best open junior, having competed in the Open Pony class.

Sponsorship and Venue

Generous sponsorship was once again a key factor in the success of this year’s championships, making the event attainable for many. The venue proved well suited to hosting such a large turnout, providing the necessary facilities for competitors and ensuring the smooth running of the championships.

Congratulations to everyone involved – it really was a superb event and few days.

For the full results and the list of award winners and champions, visit Indoor Carriage Driving UK