Suffolk, England, farrier Simon Curtis was awarded the Sir Colin Spedding Award at the 26^th National Equine Forum (NEF).

“The special commendation was given in recognition of Simon’s exceptional practical and educational contributions to farriery over 45 years,” according to the NEF.

Curtis, a member of the International Horseshoeing Hall Of Fame, is the first farrier to receive the award, which was introduced in 2013.

In addition to leading hoof-care presentations in 30 countries across six continents, Curtis has published three textbooks on footcare.

“I am both surprised and delighted to have won the Sir Colin Spedding Award,” he says. “I take it as a recognition that good farriery and increased farriery science is acknowledged as contributing to equine health and performance.”

The Sir Colin Spedding Award “is presented annually to an exceptional unsung hero or heroine of the equestrian world.” Anne, the Princess Royal and President of the National Equine Forum, presented the award.