At this years Hall of Fame, ESNZ Jumping introduced two new awards that we believe celebrate what many see as the backbone of our sport, the breeders and the owners. We are all witnessing an exciting time in Jumping, with NZ born and bred riders and horses heading offshore and celebrating much success on the big stage, in both Europe and America/Canada.
“The aspiration and thrill we all get when our kiwis do well on the world stage is something we all love to be a part of but to be the ones that actually get there, it takes a long term vision, belief, hard work, commitment and ongoing determination”. (Penny Tapley – Jumping Board Chair).
ESNZ Jumping Owner of the Year
Luke Dee and Gangster WW – a framed photo was presented to the ESNZ Jumping Owner of the year, Fiona Hall.
Luke Dee ventured off to the FEI World Cup Finals in Europe, 2025, with a long term goal of competing at the World Equestrian Games on his Oldenburger gelding, Gangster WW. Due to their outstanding success on the European scene, this dream is now a reality. Aside from the talented Dee, this success has come to fruition thanks to Fiona Hall, the co-owner of Gangster. Fiona’s support and belief in this talented duo have allowed them to flourish in Europe, picking up many wins and placings amongst some of the biggest names in the world, and now, together, they all have a focus on the World Championships in Aachen next month. Fiona is also the owner of TCG Centadel who, ridden by Lottie Bull, won the Pony Grand Prix Series last season.
“Congratulations Fiona for backing and believing in the combination and thank you for everything you have done for NZ Jumping on the world stage and we look forward to your team’s continued success”. (Penny Tapley – Jumping Board Chair).
ESNZ Jumping Breeder of the Year
Another standout Kiwi combination that rustled up huge excitement here in New Zealand with their efforts at the 2026 FEI World Cup Final, was the exceptional LT Holst Freda in the hands of the very talented Julie Davey. Freda captured the hearts of everyone who followed her journey as she progressed through the age group series, all the way up to winning World Cups. Whilst Freda was produced beautifully by Julie Davey, her success is owed to the vision of one man; Ewen Mackintosh.
Julie Davey and LT Holst Freda, a framed photo was presented to the ESNZ Jumping Breeder of the year, Ewen Mackintosh.
Ewen had the foresight to import a group of high quality Holsteiner mares from Europe back in 2012-13. Freda was the daughter of one of these mares; LT Holst Andrea, who had a successful competitive career herself, under Brooke Edgecombe. As a two year old, Freda was purchased by Julie Davey & carefully produced through the grades to winning the NZ FEI World Cup league two years in a row. Freda is now in the hands of Harry Charles of Great Britain, who recently rode her in the Longines League of Nations 5* 1.60 Teams competition at Rotterdam, where they jumped triple clear, and their speedy jump off gave Great Britain the win. In a recent interview with World of Showjumping, Harry said “I feel very, very lucky to have a horse like Freda”.
“Congratulations Ewen for breeding an absolutely world class NZ bred horse that is capturing attention around the world”. (Penny Tapley – Jumping Board Chair).
14 July 2026
The Jumping Team