Israel will not see two but just one individual dressage rider compete at the 2018 World Equestrian Games. Sahar Daniel Hirosh has announced his withdrawal from 2018 WEG participation as his ride Whitman has sustained an injury. Eyal Zlatin is still in the running.
Owned by Jane Suwalsky, Hirosh had qualified the 15-year old KWPN bred Whitman (by Rhodium x Saluut) for the 2018 World Equestrian Games. The bay gelding was previously competed by Lauren Sammis and Whitman has been Hirosh's ride for one year.
“It has been my goal to represent Israel and everything was on track," Hirosh explained, “The partnership with Whitman blossomed more at every competition and the Israeli Equestrian Federation and the entire US dressage community was so supportive. But unfortunately Whitman had a minor set back early this summer and we were forced to make the most difficult decision and withdraw from the World Equestrian Games.
Both Hirosh and Suwalsky are deeply disappointed to withdraw Whitman after qualifying to represent Israel in the upcoming World Equestrian Games, but, “the horse’s welfare comes before all-else”.
“It is never easy to let go of a dream and the burden is much greater when your country’s hopes are riding on you,” Hirosh explained, “But of course my desires and even Israel’s hopes are not as important as Whitman’s long term health. Whitman is an amazing horse with talent and big heart, I owe him so much already for the journey we have been on and look forward to competing again next winter when he is 100% ready."
Hirosh campaigned two horses for the 2018 World Equestrian Games: Whitman as well as Don Daiquiri, which Beth Palmgren purchased from Canadian 2014 WEG team rider Karen Pavicic as Hirosh's 2018 WEG hopeful. Sahar obtained his WEG qualification scores with Whitman.
Photo © Astrid Appels
Related Links
Karen Pavicic Sells Don Daiquiri, New Ride for Sahar Hirosh
Scores: 2018 CDI-W Wellington