Di Arbuthnot, the former Chief Executive of the charity Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) was announced as the winner of the Sir Colin Spedding Award at yesterday’s National Equine Forum (NEF), 6th March 2025. The award was given in recognition of Di’s dedication to racehorse welfare.
Through her leadership of the charity Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) for over 20 years, Di provided a pathway for thoroughbreds to have a meaningful life after racing. Di went on to set up and chair the International Forum for the Aftercare of Racehorses (IFAR). Due to Di’s foresight, dedication and ability to persuade, thousands of racehorses have secured comfortable and fulfilling lives post training, and tens of thousands now face assured futures.
Di Arbuthnot said: “I am thrilled to receive this prestigious award, and I would like to thank the National Equine Forum. It was a privilege, 25 years ago, to become part of a charity that has helped many thoroughbreds have another career.
“Bringing awareness of their adaptability and their successes has helped change the way those both inside and outside of the industry look at the life of a thoroughbred. It would not have been possible without the commitment and foresight of the chairmen and trustees of RoR, particularly in those early days, as well as the dedication and hard work of a small team; I am delighted to accept this award on their behalf.”
Sir Colin Spedding was the founding chairman of the NEF and chaired the event for 20 years until his death in 2012. He ensured that representatives of all areas of the equine sphere were made welcome to the Forum, and that topics of general interest and concern could be discussed openly and amicably. The award was introduced in 2013, in his memory. It is presented annually to an exceptional unsung hero or heroine of the equestrian world. Any individual or organisation from any equestrian field in the UK is eligible, as long as their outstanding qualities have not been formally acknowledged elsewhere prior to the closing date of nominations.
Two joint winners received the Sir Colin Spedding Award in 2024. Kirsty Withnall was recognised for her tireless determination as an RSPCA Case Officer and Amanda Stoddart-West was acknowledged for her pioneering work to enhance equine wellbeing as a Coordinator at the Great Yorkshire Show. In addition, Anne Dicker, Managing Partner of the Catherston Stud, was highly commended as an Award finalist for her work in helping to unite the equine sector. Charlotte Thornycroft won the 2023 Award in recognition of her dedication and support for the British Equestrians for Ukraine Fund. The full list of Award winners can be found here.
The sessions from NEF25 will be released on the NEF YouTube channel soon.