A Celebrated Showcase of Scotland’s Working Highland Ponies
Morag MacDonald, handling Balmoral Pimms on behalf of HM The King at Balmoral Estate, has been crowned the winner of the 2026 Fred Taylor Memorial Award at the GWCT Scottish Game Fair.
Held on the final day of the Fair at Scone Palace, Perthshire, the prestigious competition celebrates the skill, training and partnership between Highland ponies and their handlers, showcasing one of Scotland’s most treasured countryside traditions.
Judged by Alastair Chalmers of Drummond Estates, this year’s competition featured an outstanding line-up of working Highland ponies from estates across Scotland. After careful deliberation, Balmoral Pimms (HPS 150/19), expertly handled by Morag MacDonald, was awarded the coveted Fred Taylor Memorial title.
The Fred Taylor Memorial Award remains one of the highlights of the Highland Pony programme at the GWCT Scottish Game Fair, recognising the vital role these native ponies continue to play in Scotland’s sporting estates. Renowned for their strength, intelligence and calm temperament, Highland ponies have long been used for traditional deer extraction and estate work, making the competition a fitting celebration of their heritage and versatility.
2026 Fred Taylor Memorial Award Results
1st: Balmoral Pimms (HPS 150/19) – Handler: Morag MacDonald, Balmoral Estate for HM The King
2nd: Gypsy of Roisbheinn (HPS 123/21) – Owned by Alison Bowman, Handler: John Clark, Kingairloch Estate
3rd: Jane of Edinglassie (HPS 014/07) – Handler: Gavin Mackay, Atholl Estates
4th: Balmoral Sparkles (HPS 161/21) – Handler: Lucy Fernie, Balmoral Estate for HM The King
5th: Tabitha of Craignetherty (HPS 147/22) – Owner and Handler: Georgia Adams, Gruinard Estate
6th: Redleys Buchan Quine and Colt Foal – Owner and Handler: Rob Mearns, Tulchan Estate
Congratulations to Morag MacDonald, HM The King, and all of the handlers and estates who took part in another exceptional showcase of Scotland’s native Highland ponies at the 2026 GWCT Scottish Game Fair.
