Long-time Spanish team horse Grandioso had his final competition ride under Jose Daniel Martin Dockx in the Grand Prix at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. The Spanish pair did not qualify for the Special and the competitive journey for Grandioso has now come to an end.
"Today was not an easy day for us," said Martin Dockx right after the Grand Prix in Rio. "It was not only difficult to contain my nerves but especially the emotions. Today was our last Grand Prix together and this is always a hard time to experience. After all the things he has done for me I want to thank Grandioso. I wanted to thank all my team for their efforts, for all the great support they have given us."
Owned by American Kimberly van Kampen Boyer, the 17-year old PRE bred Grandioso has been one of Spain's anchor team horses, representing Spain at the 2012 Olympics, 2013 and 2015 European Championships and 2014 World Equestrian Games.
In February this year, Grandioso sustained an injury to his left hind leg during transport to the CDI Jerez three weeks ago. The horse was diagnosed with a tear in the tendon sheath and operated on by British surgeon Bruce Bladon. The horse was fit on time to participate in the final Spanish Olympic team observation trial in Aachen and secured his spot on the team for Rio.
At the 2016 Olympic Games Martin Dockx and Grandioso scored 70.829% and placed 34th. His score was not high enough to qualify them individually for the Grand Prix Special after Spain just missed on qualification for the Special by landing a provisional 7th team spot.
Grandioso will now be retired from competition sport.
Photo © Astrid Appels
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