Award of Honour 2026 ceremoniously awarded to Spruce Meadows

During the LONGINES CHI CLASSICS BASEL, the Award of Honour 2026 was given to Spruce Meadows (CAN) and its director Linda Southern-Heathcott. Spruce Meadows celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2025 and has established itself as an internationally renowned meeting place for equestrian enthusiasts. Under the leadership of Linda Southern-Heathcott, the institution connects people worldwide – both within and outside the equestrian community. 

The award was handed over by Dr. h.c. Thomas Straumann, who presented the winner with the legendary golden horse with blue eyes and a cheque for 25,000 Swiss francs. To mark the 15th anniversary of the Award of Honour, the traditional trophy is being accompanied by financial support for the first time.

Linda Southern-Heathcott decided to donate the amount to the Spruce Meadows Leg Up Foundation, a foundation that supports people in challenging life situations, thereby strengthening Spruce Meadows‘ social influence beyond equestrian sports.

In her visibly emotional acceptance speech, the award winner said: ‘I am deeply honoured to receive this award. My thanks go to Dr Straumann and the entire CHI organisation – this is a wonderful event. And I would like to thank my husband Tom for his support.’

She also emphasised the power of tournaments such as Basel: ‘The special thing about events like this is that they bring people together – thanks to these incredible athletes. But without the horses, none of this would be possible. That’s why I would also like to thank the horses.’

Amid applause and after the presentation of flowers, the audience bid farewell to Linda Southern-Heathcott – a fitting moment for a formative personality and institution in international equestrian sport.