- Durham-based Gemma Potts, and her former racehorse Optimal Spirit, named as finalists for the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) Partnership of the Year Award 2026, supported by The Sir Peter O’Sullevan Charity Trust
- The pair have been recognised for their unique connection following Gemma’s life-altering spinal injury in 2021
- Public vote open until 5pm on Friday 9 January at www.ror.org.uk/awards
- Awards ceremony on Saturday 24 January to be opened by RoR Patron, Zara Tindall
Durham-based Gemma Potts, and her remarkable former racehorse Optimal Spirit, have been shortlisted for the inaugural Sir Peter O’Sullevan Charity Trust RoR Partnership of the Year Award, recognising the unique bond they have built since Gemma suffered a life-altering spinal injury in 2021.
The 19-year-old Optimal Spirit, lovingly known as Charlie, only lasted three races as a racehorse, but Gemma bought him in 2015 to compete in several equine disciplines including eventing, where they performed all the way up to British Eventing 100 standard until Gemma’s accident in 2021, demonstrating the remarkable versatility of thoroughbreds.
RoR, British horseracing’s official charity for the welfare of former racehorses, has introduced the Sir Peter O’Sullevan Charity Trust RoR Partnership of the Year Award for the 2026 The Jockey Club RoR Awards. The award recognises inspiring people and celebrates the exceptional bond between former racehorses and their riders or owners, focusing on connection rather than competition.
Gemma suffered a high-level spinal cord injury, leaving her tetraplegic and paralysed from her shoulders down, ending her riding career. Once partnered in the eventing arena, Optimal Spirit has continued to support Gemma through some tough times since her injury, and visiting him remains Gemma’s favourite place to be, as he sees beyond her wheelchair, nudging her hands and feet as their special connection continues to shine.
Gemma Potts from Brandon, Durham said:
“It would be unbelievable to win this award. I never thought I would be put forward for something like this, never mind making it to the final. Charlie has been there for me if I’m having a tough day, and watching him and interacting with him has helped me massively.”
Nominations for this year’s award came from across the racing and equestrian communities, with an independent judging panel facing the difficult task of selecting the top three finalists. Gemma and Optimal Spirit and up against Alex Embiricos and Cru Bourgeois from West Sussex and Lucinda Sims and Zarkandar from Hampshire.
David Catlow, Managing Director of RoR, commented:
“We’re thrilled to open public voting for these prestigious awards. With so many remarkable nominations, choosing the finalists was no easy task for our judges. Each story highlights not only the incredible versatility of former racehorses in their new careers but also the strong, inspiring bonds they form with their owners”
In a demonstration of the awards significance, RoR Patron Zara Tindall will open the awards ceremony, highlighting the important work and continued dedication of the RoR community.
Zara Tindall said:
“It is always a pleasure to celebrate the extraordinary journeys of former racehorses. The Retraining of Racehorses Awards not only recognise their achievements but also highlight the vital role of responsible aftercare and the commitment shown by owners, riders and the wider community.”
The public vote is now open and closes at 5pm on Friday 9 January. To review all the finalists’ stories and participate in the voting process, visit www.ror.org.uk/awards. The winner will be announced at the RoR Awards at Cheltenham Racecourse on Festival Trials Day on Saturday 24 January 2026.
