Emile Faurie announced the retirement of Rascher Hopes after completing his Grand Prix Freestyle test at the 2006 Blue Waters National Dressage Championships at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire.
The 15-year-old 16.1hh Danish-bred gelding (by Dwight out of Tosen (by Luxemburg)), who is owned by Leonie Porter and Hilary Sawyer, received a standing ovation after an emotional farewell speech by British Dressage chairman Desi Dillingham.
“Streaky” has had an illustrious international career spanning six years, which included being a member of the British team at the 2000 Sydney Olympics. He was only nine at the time and the highest-placed horse in the British team. He also represented Britain at the 2001 European Championships, 2002 World Equestrian Games and won team bronze at the 2003 Europeans at Hickstead.
Emile, who finished fourth on 70.85% with Streaky in the grand prix freestyle, said: “It is nice to go out on a high. He is the smallest horse with the biggest heart and has been a wonderful ambassador for British dressage.”
Photo copyrighted: David Charles
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