where are they now

Herons Heir, affectionately known as Harry, is still fighting fit and thriving. He was a five-time winner under Rules, and was retired from racing in 2017.

Shelley acquired him shortly after his retirement and she undertook his retraining herself. In 2022, the partnership embarked upon what would become a highly successful endurance career, picking up prizes at numerous RoR events, claiming the national title in 2025.

The pair now hack three to four times a week and some of these are on duty for the police. Harry is trusted to be the close pass horse for operation snaffle…which is a police operation that is aiming to educate drivers to slow down to 10mph and give 2m space when passing horses on the road.

Shelley and Harry regularly go out to pole and flatwork clinics…with the view of doing dressage over the winter.

Shelley says that on top of all of these projects, they are still racing around the countryside with endurance GB! They completed their first 46km 2 day class last weekend - coming home with a win too!

Shelley says “Harry excels in and endurance as he loves countryside and canters! We won the RoR elite endurance trophy last year, hoping our wins this year put us on track to get in the top 5 again this year! He’s 18 now and not showing any signs of slowing down.”

We wish Shelley and Harry all the best on their journey and thank you to Shelley for this amazing second career which you have given to Herons Heir!

Heron’s Heir can still pose!

Shelley and Harry out for a hack