Judging panel

Anna Metekohy, The Jockey Club

With over 20 years of experience in the racing industry, Anna Metekohy has built a career across National Hunt and Flat racing yards, studs, and racecourse operations; she combines her professional expertise with a lifelong passion for thoroughbreds. Anna has worked with racehorses at every stage of their careers—from breaking in and pre-training young horses to retraining and rehoming ex-racehorses. A former point-to-point rider and dedicated enthusiast of horses beyond the racetrack, she is a strong advocate for celebrating the versatility and character of thoroughbreds in life after racing.

Emma Lavelle

Emma Lavelle grew up in a racing-minded family and knew from an early age that she wanted to become a trainer. After gaining valuable experience, both as an assistant and secretary, she spent time abroad before taking out her trainer’s licence in 1998. Originally based in Hampshire, Emma relocated in 2016 to Bonita Racing Stables near Marlborough, Wiltshire — a move that marked a major step forward for her operation. Since then, Emma has trained winners at the highest level, most notably Paisley Park, the popular stayer who captured the 2019 Cheltenham Stayers’ Hurdle. 

Nigel Payne MBE, Sir Peter O’Sullevan Charitable Trust

Nigel has been involved in the horseracing industry for well over 40 years. He was the Press Officer for Aintree and has served on many industry boards, He was also part owner of the legendary Earth Summit, the only steeplechaser to have won the Welsh, Scottish Nationals and the Grand National. In 2001 he was appointed to the board of the Sir Peter O'Sullevan Charitable Trust, which has distributed in excess of £15 million for animal welfare causes, including RoR.

Rebecca and Ruby Hughes

Rebecca Hughes is an experienced international dressage rider, trainer and judge. She has produced numerous horses from youngsters right through to Grand Prix, and is passionate about helping riders and horses reach their potential.

Ruby Hughes is one of Britain’s exciting young dressage talents. She has already represented Great Britain at Junior and Young Rider level, winning a European Team Bronze medal, and continues to achieve strong results on the international stage.

Rupert Arnold, RoR trustee

Rupert brings extensive practical and governance experience in horseracing, having worked as both a licensed trainer and Chief Executive of the National Trainers Federation. He is a former director of the BHA and the Horsemen’s Group (now The Thoroughbred Group). Rupert serves on the BHA Judicial Panel and is a trustee of several racing charities, including RoR.