The final Animalweb Good Horsemanship Award at the Royal Highland Show 2026 was presented to Lucas McArdle and his ponies, Another Milton and Fancy A Baileys.
Selected from hundreds of competitors, Lucas stood out for his exceptional calmness, confidence and the genuine partnership he demonstrated with both of his ponies, both in the warm-up arena and during competition. It was a pleasure to witness the trust, harmony and mutual respect between rider and pony.
Lucas is a talented young rider with a bright future ahead of him. His thoughtful approach, excellent horsemanship and positive attitude make him a tremendous ambassador for British Showjumping and an outstanding role model for the next generation of riders.
Twelve-year-old Lucas McArdle has been riding since he was six years old and is already making a name for himself in the showjumping ring. Currently competing in both 128cm and 138cm classes, he has partnered with Another Milton and Fancy A Baileys since last year, building two exciting new partnerships under the guidance of trainer Douglas Duffin.
The Royal Highland Show was a memorable event for Lucas, where he finished second in the 138cm Final before receiving the Welfare Stewarding Group Award. He has also enjoyed an outstanding season, qualifying for both the Horse of the Year Show and the Agria Royal International Horse Show at Hickstead, and is looking forward to competing at two of the biggest championships of the year.
Lucas’s love of horses extends far beyond competition. He says one of his favourite parts of the sport is simply spending time with his ponies—taking them for walks, grazing them and making sure they are happy and relaxed at shows. His calm and patient approach has become one of his defining qualities, with those around him commenting on the positive influence he has on his ponies.
Throughout the day, Lucas is constantly praising and reassuring his ponies, always putting their wellbeing first. If he feels something is not quite right, he is happy to step back, allow the pony time to settle and only continue when he knows they are comfortable. He never becomes frustrated or rushed, instead remaining calm and focused on doing what is best for his ponies. His thoughtful horsemanship and quiet partnership with both ponies made him a worthy recipient of the Welfare Stewarding Group Award.
Looking to the future, Lucas hopes to continue progressing through the sport and one day represent his country at the Olympic Games. With his genuine respect for his ponies and mature approach to horsemanship, he is already demonstrating the qualities that will support him throughout his career.
