Guy Landau, after a rousing lap of honour to celebrate retaining his HOYS Hunter Championship title, dismounted from John Dunlop's consistent performer Finn McCool III and lead him out of the arena on foot, announcing his retirement from the show ring. He received a standing ovation from a packed International Arena audience in recognition of a true showing legend.

Finn McCool's show career is phenomenal - he is reigning Supreme of Show at the SHB(GB) National Hunter Show, reigning Supreme of Show at the Royal International Horse Show and reigning Supreme of Show at HOYS. Will he be back in the ring on Sunday to defend his crown?

Guy first spotted Finn McCool as a foal in Ireland. “He's an out and out winner. I don't think any other horse can match his record,” said Guy. "Over the years, I've been very privileged to ride some fantastic horses, but this one ranks as one of the greatest of all time."

This year his tally included two titles which have previously eluded him, taking the final ever Hunter Championship at The Royal Show and Hunter Champion at The Royal International Horse Show. He also this year took the prestigious hunter titles at Royal Windsor, Royal Bath & West and most recently at the National Hunter Supreme Championship Show. Guy also hunts Finn McCool with the South and West Wilts.

Earlier today, Finn McCool headed his Lightweight Hunter class at HOYS with his usual foot perfect performance and full-throttle signiature gallop. This evening saw him shine under the spotlights, waiting until last to give another blistering gallop to clinch the Hunter title from Rob Walker with Pride & Joy, repeating the line-up from this year's Royal International.

Many tears were shed this evening as the nine-year old Supreme Edge gelding left the arena for the last time - at the absolute peak of his game and many will remember him for years to come as an undeniable out-and-out Hunter Champion.