Ben Maher to receive Honorary Doctorate

Just months after Writtle College's official graduation ceremony, Ben Maher, is to receive his honorary doctorate for his contribution to the equestrian industry. On Monday 16 April, Ben will receive his honorary award in the new indoor riding arena at Writtle College from Professor Nigel South of the University of Essex. The ceremony will be followed with a display of Ben's show jumping expertise in front of a crowd of equestrian students, staff and visitors.

Ben, who was lined up to receive his honorary doctorate in the annual September Graduation ceremony in 2011, was forced to pull out due to unexpected commitments competing for Team GB abroad. He has represented Britain on numerous occasions including being the youngest rider to represent GB at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and then later representing his country at the 2009 and 2011 European Championships.

More recent accolades for Ben's show jumping career include finishing as the H&M Leading Rider at the Olympia International Horse Show in London in December last year, after winning the Rolex FEI World Cup Qualifier on his own and Emma and Mike Phillips' Tripple X. Currently, Ben is abroad competing at the 2012 FTI Consulting Winter Equestrian Festival in Wellington, Florida alongside other potential London 2012 Team Great Britain hopefuls.

Senior Equine lecturer, Pennie Wallace said: “Ben is a real inspiration to all equine enthusiasts in Great Britain and for Writtle College to be able to honour him with a doctorate is really special. We are all really looking forward to conferment as well as being excited about his show jumping spectacular after the ceremony.”