FT Honorary Awards

Elin Holst, Ásmundur Ernir Snorrason and Brynja Kristinsdóttir. Photo: Freydís Bergsdóttir

The Association of Professional Horse Trainers (FT) presented the following honorary awards at Landsmót Hestamanna 2026 at Hólar in Hjaltadal.

FT Horsemanship Award

The FT Horsemanship Award is presented at each Landsmót to recognise outstanding horsemanship and the exemplary handling of horses, whether in sport competitions or breeding presentations. The recipient is expected to demonstrate exemplary conduct both in and out of the arena, showing respect towards horses, event staff, and fellow competitors. Horses should be well-developed, well-trained, and presented to the highest standard.

Brynja Kristinsdóttir Receives the FT Horsemanship Award

This year's FT Horsemanship Award is presented to Brynja Kristinsdóttir.

Brynja is an exceptionally courteous and well-prepared rider who approaches every task with professionalism, composure, and ambition.

She delivered outstanding performances both on the breeding track and in the Tölt competition with Sunna frá Haukagili á Hvítársíðu.

Her riding is elegant, fair, and characterised by subtle aids and a balanced, secure seat. Her performances demonstrate confidence, focus, power, and exceptional harmony between horse and rider, reflecting careful training and outstanding horsemanship.

Brynja rides with fairness, respect, and sensitivity, making her a true role model for good horsemanship.

She consistently displays courtesy and sportsmanship, both inside and outside the arena, setting an excellent example for fellow competitors.

Brynja Kristinsdóttir is a truly deserving recipient of the FT Horsemanship Award.

Congratulations, Brynja!

The FT Feather Award

The FT Feather Award is presented by the Association of Professional Horse Trainers for a single outstanding performance on one horse that fulfils the following criteria:

The recipient's riding should be characterised by lightness, suppleness, and harmony, combining exceptional presence with balance. Horse and rider should radiate health, energy, and joy.

The award recognises the unique expression of both horse and rider. The horse should be self-carrying, strong, and supple, while the riding should be defined by harmony and lightness.

Ásmundur Ernir Snorrason Receives the FT Feather Award

Ásmundur Ernir Snorrason receives the FT Feather Award for his magnificent performance with the Gæðingur Hlökk frá Strandarhöfði in the Tölt competition, where the pair truly excelled.

This outstanding partnership is characterised by exceptional presence, power, and style.

Hlökk is a willing and enthusiastic horse who gives everything alongside her rider, and their partnership is truly remarkable.

Together they performed with effortless harmony, delivering a powerful and highly professional presentation.

Congratulations, Ási, on receiving the FT Feather Award!

Elin Holst Receives the FT Feather Award

Elin Holst receives the FT Feather Award for her presentation of the outstanding mare Hugsýn frá Ketilsstöðum in the Six-Year-Old Mares Class.

Their performance was marked by exceptional harmony, with both horse and rider radiating joy.

The mare was eager to perform at full capacity, carrying herself beautifully in slow tölt while remaining relaxed and responsive. Hugsýn is a true credit to both her rider and trainer.

Lightness, elegance, power, and balance characterised the performance.

Elin is an exemplary rider, and she and Hugsýn also delivered an outstanding presentation in the Four-Year-Old Mares Class at Landsmót 2024, reflecting fair and thoughtful horsemanship while demonstrating the mare's continued development.

Congratulations, Elin, on receiving the FT Feather Award!