Dutch Grand Prix rider Sander Marijnissen has announced the retirement of his number one horse Moedwil. The 18-year old Dutch warmblood gelding will still be used for shows and demonstrations and then his training will gradually be minimized.
The chestnut gelding by Goodwill x Beaujolais is still fit and healthy but owner and rider Marijnissen decided to put the horse's interests first. "I don't want my ambition to be at the cost of my horse," Marijnissen told Horses.nl. "He always did his best for me. It wouldn't be fair if I forced him now to chase a dream."
Marijnissen and Moedwil's career highlight were a team bronze medal at the 2011 European Championships in Rotterdam. They also competed successfully at the CDI's in Munich, Hickstead, Bremen, and Oldenburg.
An official retirement ceremony in front of an audience is being planned.
Source: Horses.nl
Photo © Astrid Appels
Related Links
Eurodressage Photo Database: Moedwil
Sander Marijnissen and Moedwil, Dutch Bravehearts
Dutch Team Selected for 2011 European Dressage Championships