A beautiful bay mare with kind eyes, Farnley Soya was the pony that defined a generation. Her famous career spanned two decades and, during that time, she won a record number of championship titles at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair with many young riders.

Foaled in 1969 at Farnley Farms in Charlottesville, Virginia, Farnley Soya was purchased as a five-year-old by trainer Sue Pritchard for her client, Susan Biggar. Fondly referred to as ‘Beanie’, Farnley Soya captured what would be the first of many championship titles at the Royal that year. In 1975, she was sold to Belinda Chopping and John Weir, again resulting in many ribbons before her sale to Amber Castleman and Looking Back Farm.

Bobbie Reber would become Farnley Soya’s final trainer, although the little mare would continue to have three more riders. Chris Delia purchased her first, followed by Bonnie Lynn Fraser. Farnley Soya’s final rider was Bobbie’s daughter, Ashley. After claiming yet another championship title at the age of 21, Farnley Soya was retired from competition.

Despite her age, she was sent to Pru Richardson who bred her to Llanarth Senator. Farnley Soya found another career where she could excel, producing two foals at the age of 24 and 25. Along with her two foals, Farnley Bean Sprout and Farnley Cauliflower, Farnley Soya traveled to British Columbia where she spent the rest of her years with Bobbie at Reber Ridge. In August of this year, at the age of 37, Farnley Soya passed away.

Few ponies will be remembered as fondly as Farnley Soya. She was a teacher and a champion for many young athletes.

Presented by Torrey Pines Stable, Inc.