Professor Chris Riggs, an international champion of horse welfare, received the 2026 Sir Colin Spedding Award at the National Equine Forum in London on 5 March. The award recognizes his efforts to advance equine veterinary care in China and Asia. He also delivered the memorial lecture on progress in the region's horse welfare.
On 5 March 2026, the National Equine Forum (NEF) in London honored Professor Chris Riggs with the Sir Colin Spedding Award, named after the forum's founding chairman. This annual prize goes to an "unsung hero" of equine welfare. Riggs serves as director of the Equine Welfare Research Foundation and chief advisor for mainland veterinary engagement at the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC).
A NEF spokesperson described Riggs as a "force of nature" who has worked tirelessly to improve veterinary education and clinical standards in China and across Asia. His contributions include scholarships, advocacy, and founding the Equine Welfare Research Foundation, which has bolstered global horse care. Riggs has been with the HKJC for over 20 years, where he led the creation of a foundation funding research on equine welfare, particularly for thoroughbred racehorses. He continues to direct this initiative.
During the event, Riggs gave the memorial lecture titled "the horse in China," discussing changing values, advancements in veterinary care, and challenges like practical training limitations, medication access, and perceptions of veterinary careers. The lecture took the form of an interview with Naomi Mellor, CEO of the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association. The spokesperson noted Riggs' optimism about a growing cohort of young veterinary graduates and international collaborations leading to sustainable improvements. He stressed that better clinical training and treatment resources would elevate horse welfare standards while fostering equestrian sport and horse culture in China.
Riggs expressed being "honoured, humbled and delighted" to receive the award. He credited the HKJC's commitment to high-quality equestrian sport and welfare, stating that the recognition should be shared with the club. Amanda Bond, head of equestrian affairs at the HKJC, praised Riggs for his unwavering mission to ensure quality horse care in China. She highlighted challenges in the rapidly developing equestrian industry, such as shortages of experienced veterinarians, and noted his lobbying for better education, vocational training enhancements, and personal mentoring of dozens of Chinese vets. Bond affirmed that Riggs passionately campaigns for horse welfare and is an ideal award recipient.
