George Hemingway awarded 2025 Pinhard Trophy
By Team TMX on 5th Feb 26
Sunbeam MCC has announced that 17-year-old trials ace George Hemingway has been named the winner of the 2025 Pinhard Trophy, one of the most prestigious accolades in British motorcycle sport.
The Leeds-based rider, a long-time member of Yeadon and Guiseley MC, has enjoyed a standout season at both national and international level, making him a unanimous choice for the judges. Awarded annually since 1950, the Pinhard Trophy – a mighty three-gallon silver cup – recognises the best Under-21 sporting motorcyclist competing under ACU or SACU regulations.
Hemingway’s CV already reads like that of a far more seasoned competitor. The 17-year-old is a former FIM Trial3 World Champion, Junior European Champion and Trial2 British Champion, and in 2025 he underlined that pedigree with another strong campaign. Highlights included an impressive third place at the Scottish Six Days Trial and second overall in the British Trials Championship, results that further cemented his reputation as one of the brightest young talents in the sport.
Beyond the results sheet, the judging panel was particularly struck by Hemingway’s commitment away from the sections, highlighting his enthusiasm for supporting and mentoring younger riders, along with his willingness to help with the organisation of trials events at all levels of the sport.
“I feel very honoured to receive such a prestigious award, following in the footsteps of my older brother Harry, who won it back in 2021,” said George. “2025 was a very successful year for me and my team, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity to travel the world while still doing the sport I love. I was also able to help the youth riders in my local club through training days, which was really rewarding. I’d like to thank Yeadon and Guiseley Motor Club for making me the rider I am, as well as my sponsors and family for their support throughout the year. I can’t wait to see what 2026 has to offer.”
The Pinhard Trophy’s roll of honour reads like a who’s who of British motorcycling, with previous winners including Mike Hailwood, Jeff Smith, Bill Martin, Roy Peplow, Dan Shorey, Scott Redding and Alexz Wigg, among many others who went on to achieve national and international success. Last year’s recipient was fellow trials rider Alice Minta.
The award is presented by Sunbeam MCC in memory of Frederick William Pinhard, who died in 1948 while serving as the club’s secretary. The judging panel comprises editors from leading motorcycle publications, the CEO of the ACU and two officials appointed by Sunbeam MCC.
At just 17 years of age, Hemingway’s name is now etched onto one of British motorcycling’s most storied trophies – and, judging by his current trajectory, it’s unlikely to be the last major honour he collects.
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Motorcycle Trials February 2026
Our regional list of trials around the UK in February 2026 with links to find out more.