Thistledown Announces Elite Pony Auction Saturday 29th November 2025 an Exciting Highlight of Amateur of the Year | 29–30 November 2025
Thistledown Stud is proud to announce the launch of the Thistledown Auction, taking place on Saturday 29th November 2025 during the inaugural Amateur of the Year Show (29–30 November 2025). This prestigious new sale will present an exclusive collection of elite ownership opportunities from one of Britain’s most respected and prolific pony breeding programmes.
Celebrating 35 years of breeding excellence, the Thistledown Auction marks a bold new chapter for the world-renowned stud. Over the years, Thistledown has produced generations of ponies celebrated for their elegance, temperament, and success in the show ring.
In fact, from 2001 to 2025, Thistledown ponies have earned a remarkable 185 Horse of the Year Show tickets, 8 HOYS Championships and 1 HOYS Supreme Championship, underlining the consistent quality and competitive success of the stud’s breeding programme.
This success extends well beyond HOYS, with highlights including the Royal Welsh Section B Youngstock Champion, Reserve Section B and WPCS Gold Medal Winner 2025, along with the Royal Welsh Winter Fair 1st and Reserve Section B Champion 2023. These accolades further showcase the exceptional caliber and versatility of Thistledown ponies in the most competitive arenas.
From elite ridden ponies to future stars of the ring, the collection includes:
This landmark sale reflects the stud’s ongoing commitment to excellence and honours its legacy. The very first pony registered by Thistledown was the much-loved Thistledown Northern Star, and it wasn’t long before the stud’s name became synonymous with success. Early standout Thistledown Bumblebee helped set the standard, qualifying for HOYS and establishing a reputation that endures to this day.
“Launching the Thistledown Auction is a truly special moment for us. After 35 years of breeding ponies with passion and purpose, it feels like the right time to share a carefully curated collection that reflects everything we’ve worked towards. From proven ridden stars to exciting young prospects, we’re proud to offer something for every level of rider—and to do so as part of Amateur of the Year makes it even more meaningful.”— Sandy Anderson, Thistledown Stud
The Thistledown Auction is more than just a sale—it’s a celebration of heritage, achievement, and the bright future of showing. Taking place during Amateur of the Year, this unmissable weekend will showcase not just exceptional ponies, but the dedication and talent that define the amateur sport.
For more information, catalogue requests or press enquiries, please contact
Grandstand Media Ltd.
Tel: 02476 858205. Email: press@hoys.co.uk
