Morris Lauded for Services to Equestrian
Friday, 10 March 2017

Equestrian stalwart Pete Morris was this evening recognised for his huge contribution to the sport at the 2017 Cape Kidnappers’ Horse of the Year Hall of Fame Awards Cocktail Party.

The gentleman from Masterton was unable to attend the glitzy event, but his sister-in-law Allison Jamieson received the framed certificate from last year’s inductee Bill Noble on his behalf.

“It is a real thrill for Pete,” said Jamieson.

There were many people in the room who had been mentored by him and discussed showjumping rules around all sorts of dinner tables.

Morris’ highly distinguished equestrian career spans 50-plus years and he is now regarded as one of New Zealand’s most knowledgeable and dedicated showjumping official.

He has ridden most of his life, and in 1955 was the first-ever winner of the Dorothy Campbell Cup at the Pony Club Champs. Morris was also the youngest to gain international FEI level 3 showjumping judge status. Over the years he has officiated at events in Australia, the UK, Canada and South Africa, with the highlight at Spruce Meadows (CAN) for the Queen Elizabeth Cup.

In 2014 Morris received the Pilmer Plate – Equestrian Sports New Zealand’s volunteer lifetime award – and made a member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2015.

Equestrian Sports New Zealand technical delegate Ross Coles, who has known Morris for 20-odd years, paid tribute to his good friend.

“It is absolutely well deserved,” says Coles. “He has dedicated his life to that.”
Morris joins 15 other equestrian greats who have previously been inducted into the Hall of Fame over recent years. His name will be added to the Hall of Fame Honour’s Board which hangs at the Hastings District Council.

Craig Booth (Masterton) received the David Ross Memorial Award for his outstanding volunteer service to the Horse of the Year Show.

It is an award given to a HOY volunteer who encapsulates the true spirit of HOY – an event dear to the late David Ross.

Horses and events are Booth’s world – along with that of his ever-patient wife Jenny and daughters. He heads the grounds committee and helps ensure the best of footing possible for horses at many events. He is also president of the Wairarapa Area Showjumping and Show Hunter Group.

“Well this is unexpected,” said Booth. “I do it for the love of the horse – we prepare the grounds for everyone to have a good time and for the horses to go home sound.”