We’re delighted to announce that Katie Timberlake has been chosen as February’s Spotlight Award winner. As part of her award, Katie wins a uvex exxential 3 riding helmet, courtesy of Zebra Products.
Presented jointly by The Howden Way and British Eventing, the Spotlight Award is a monthly recognition that celebrates individuals who embody the shared values of both organisations. Each month, British Eventing lead coaches are invited to nominate a recipient from their region who has been recognised for their contributions to the eventing community. The winner is then selected by Olympic Gold Medallist, Laura Collett, from a shortlist of contenders.
Coach Jo Rimmer nominated Katie for the February Spotlight Award on behalf of the South West region. She said: “Katie always puts her horse Annie first and is kind and considerate to everyone training with her. She works very hard in training sessions and at home. She is a polite and thoughtful member of the eventing community.”
Laura Collett, who has the pleasure of selecting the winning candidate, said: “It’s lovely to hear about Katie and Annie’s journey and how patience and kindness has helped Annie to overcome her difficult past. Ensuring good horse welfare and building a strong partnership is vital for success, so it’s great to see that Katie puts these two elements above anything else. I wish them both a happy and successful season.”
Katie commented: “I’ve ridden all my life and started BE when I was 13. I’m competing at BE100 level with Annie a 10-year-old Irish sports horse who I’ve had since June 2021. When I met Annie, she was a very nervous horse as she hadn’t had the best of starts. It’s been a bit up and down but it’s all slowly coming together and we’re looking forward to the new season ahead.
“My eventing plan is to stay competing at BE100 this year and our goal is to qualify for Badminton Grassroots 100. It’s a life-long dream to qualify for Badminton Grassroots. Annie and I have both been working hard to get to that stage. I would also love to go up the levels with Annie in years to come because I think she has got enough talent and scope.
“The regional training has been very helpful and I have learnt a lot. I love to attend them with Annie because it is important to get feedback from the professionals and then you can practice at home. It’s also good to be in a group and watch how other people ride their horses and also get feedback from other riders.
“I couldn’t believe it when I heard I had won the Spotlight Award. It is such a big achievement to win this award and I am so grateful to Jo Rimmer for nominating me.”
The Howden Way and British Eventing are committed to fostering a culture of excellence, growth, and camaraderie, and the Spotlight Award is a testament to this shared commitment. Each month, a Grassroots (80-100) BE member is nominated by one of British Eventing’s lead regional coaches based on their commitment to the following core values and attributes:
- Prioritising horse welfare and athlete wellness
- Embracing and supporting a collaborative, inclusive environment in training and or competition
- Emphasising personal growth and skill development
- Exhibiting sportsmanship and serving as a positive role model
For more information on the Spotlight Award, visit here. To find out more about The Howden Way, click here
For those wishing to join British Eventing, there is a 40% discount for new Pony Club and Riding Club members. For information on how to join, visit here
