Tuesday, 08 September 2026
British Equestrian has honoured Fiona Muirhead and Major Malcolm Wallace, both leading figures within the sport of eventing, with our highest accolade, the British Equestrian Medal of Honour.
The medals were presented in the main arena at Defender Burghley Horse Trials – an event to which both Fiona and Major Wallace have a strong connection – on Sunday 16 September.
The British Equestrian Medal of Honour is awarded to those recognised as having completed acts of international endeavour in relation to equestrian sport, and for outstanding services to the Federation or its Member Bodies.
Sometimes affectionately referred to as the ‘Queen of the North’ in recognition of her support of Scottish and Northern fixtures, including Blair Castle, Scone Palace and Burgham International Horse Trials, Fiona Muirhead is an eventing official and steward.
Her involvement in eventing began as a rider, before her enthusiasm for the sport led her to become a British Eventing Technical Advisor, then a British Eventing and FEI Steward. She was the Chief Steward at Blair Castle for the FEI European Championships in 2015 and has held that same role at Defender Burghley Horse Trials for almost 20 years.
Throughout her life in the sport, Fiona has encouraged, mentored and supported not only riders, but event organisers and officials.
Fiona’s medal was presented by Performance Director for the World Class Programme, Helen Nicholls.
Major Wallace has been involved in eventing throughout his adult life, as a competitor, official and supporter of the sport.
He was Chef d’Equipe of the British eventing team from 1979–1985, during which time they won multiple team and individual medals at European and World Championships and Olympic Games.
Following this, he headed British Equestrian as Director General from 1985 to 1994, before taking the position of Chairman of Defender Burghley Horse Trials from 2000–2009.
Major Wallace has held further honorary roles at Defender Burghley, MARS Badminton Horse Trials and the London International Horse Show, and remains a dedicated supporter of equestrian sport.
Major Wallace’s medal was presented by HRH The Princess Royal as part of the prize-giving ceremony at the conclusion of competition.