Hill Pony Competition T&Cs

1. Eligibility

1.1 Handlers must be of an age and maturity consistent with working as Ghillies on estates. While no formal minimum age is set, handlers are generally expected to be old enough to hold a valid driving licence and are often engaged through a college apprenticeship program.

1.2 Handlers may be estate employees but are not necessarily vehicle drivers.

1.3 Employees of the event organisers are not eligible to win the prize.

2. Judging and Awards

2.1 The judge will select the top six competitors in reverse order of placing.

2.2 All competitors will receive a rosette and typically a bottle of whisky.

2.3 The first-placed Highland Pony will be awarded a bronze medal from the Highland Pony Society, provided the pony is registered with the Society.

2.4 It is the responsibility of the organisers to verify the pony’s registration status before awarding the medal.

2.5 The President of the Highland Pony Society is expected to present the medal on the day of the event.

2.6 While the competition traditionally features Highland Ponies, the class is open to all native working pony breeds.

3. Criteria for Judging

3.1 The judge will assess competitors based on multiple factors, including but not limited to:

3.1.1 Suitability of the pony and handler (Ghillie) for the work being demonstrated.

3.1.2 Condition of the pony and equipment.

3.1.3 Turnout and presentation, including cleanliness, uniformity, and attention to detail.

3.1.4 Manners and behaviour of the pony.

3.1.5 Appropriateness and fit of tack and gear.

3.1.6 Pony’s movement and overall performance.

3.2 Safety is non-negotiable. Any breach of range rules, unsafe conduct, or misuse of equipment will result in immediate disqualification and removal from the event.

4. Prize

4.1 The winner will receive use of a D-Max Isuzu vehicle for six (6) months.

4.2 The vehicle remains the property of the provider and is loaned subject to internal vetting, including:

4.2.1 Possession of a valid full UK driving licence.

4.2.2 A clean driving record (minor offences may be considered at the organiser’s discretion).

4.2.3 Fully comprehensive insurance coverage for the loan period.

4.2.4 Acceptance and signing of a separate vehicle loan agreement, covering return condition, mileage limits, and restrictions on commercial use.

5. Internal Vetting

5.1 Vetting will take place post-event but before the vehicle is handed over.

5.2 If the winner does not meet the vetting criteria, the prize will be forfeited.

5.3 The organisers reserve the right to award the prize to the runner-up, subject to the same vetting process.

5.4 There is no cash alternative to the prize.

6. General Conditions

6.1 The organisers reserve the right to:

6.1.1 Modify, postpone, or cancel the event due to unforeseen circumstances.

6.1.2 Disqualify any participant for cheating, unsportsmanlike conduct, or breach of these rules.

6.2 By entering, participants consent to the use of their name, image, and score for promotional purposes, without additional compensation.

7. Liability Waiver

7.1 Participants accept all risks associated with clay pigeon shooting and participation in the event.

7.2 The organisers, sponsors, and venue accept no liability for injury, loss, or damage to persons or property, except as required by law.

8. Governing Law

8.1 These terms are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales.