Riders in the Land Rover Premier Arena have extra incentive to do well at the 2014 NRM Horse of the Year Show thanks to an initiative from a long-time equestrian supporter.

Mary and Tracey Matheson are the sponsors of the NRM Horse of the Year Leading Rider prize.

Each day, riders accumulate points for placing in the top six in the premier arena, and the Leading Rider Sash will be awarded after each class. At the end of the show the winner will receive a cash prize and trophy.

NRM HOY show director Kevin Hansen has welcomed the new prize.

“It is another development that will enhance the show,” he says. “It is great to have a family like the Mathesons behind it.”

Wanaka based Matheson, who will be speaking at this year’s Red Ribbon Reunion Lunch, never competed at HOY, but loves nothing more than attending the prestigious show as a spectator.

And he’s a big fan of progressions he has seen in both the show and sport.

“What happens now in Hastings is unbelievable . . . and the standards have also risen tremendously. It is a great thing.”