Rehomed Horse Sunny Wins Silver at TREC GB National Championships

A HorseWorld rehomed horse has proven himself a star on the national stage after securing second place at a major equestrian competition. Rehomed cob Sunny, who began life at HorseWorld in 2012, won silver in the Level 2 Individual Class at the TREC GB National Championships last month.

His rehomer Anne, who has cared for him since he was a youngster, couldn’t hide her pride, saying: “I am so proud of him!” 

This impressive result highlights not only Sunny’s talent and versatility but also the potential of rescued horses to thrive and succeed in new homes.

Sunny’s story began when his mother, Dolly, was rescued by HorseWorld as part of a large welfare case involving multiple neglected horses. Safe at the charity, she gave birth to a foal who we named Sunny.

Not long after, Sunny was rehomed with Anne, who also welcomed his half-brother Dizzy, born the same year to another rescued mare, Izzy, from the same welfare case.

Both foals had uncertain beginnings, but thanks to HorseWorld’s rescue and rehoming programme, they were given the chance to grow, develop, and enjoy happy, fulfilling lives.

Over the years, Sunny has earned the affectionate nickname of the “Super Cob.” His personality and enthusiasm have made him a favourite in his home, while his abilities in hacking, cross country, and dressage have shone through in every discipline he has tried.

His latest success at the TREC GB National Championships is a testament to his strong partnership with Anne and the training, love, and dedication she has given him over the years. TREC (Techniques de Randonnée Équestre de Compétition) is a demanding competition designed to test a horse’s versatility, obedience, and partnership with its rider across multiple phases. Sunny’s silver medal finish demonstrates just how capable and adaptable he is.

While Sunny has celebrated competition success, his half-brother Dizzy has followed a different path. He is now a much-loved therapy pony at EAQ Mid Somerset, where he helps people develop confidence, resilience, and wellbeing through equine-assisted learning.

Though their lives have taken different directions, both brothers show the incredible range of futures that rescued and rehomed horses can go on to achieve.

Stories like Sunny and Dizzy’s are at the heart of what we stand for. From mares rescued in desperate need, to foals born into safety, and finally to rehomed horses thriving in loving homes, these journeys reflect our commitment to giving equines a second chance.

Head of Equine Welfare at HorseWorld, Sarah Hollister said:

“Sunny’s achievement at the National Championships is a fantastic example of what rescued horses can achieve when given the chance. To see him thriving in his home and excelling in competition is incredibly rewarding. We are equally proud of Dizzy, who is doing vital work as a therapy pony. Both horses are living proof of the importance of giving equines a second chance.”

Sunny may have started life in uncertain circumstances, but today he stands as a champion in more ways than one.