Emma Hindle has officially retired her top Grand Prix horse Lancet after his final competition at the 2011 CDI Hickstead World Dressage Masters last weekend. The 18-year old Hanoverian stallion will enjoy a happy life and continue his breeding duties as a licensed stallion.
"A retirement is not easy," Hindle explained, especially finding the right moment. Even though Lancet is still fit and we could still achieve
many accomplishments this year, I had made my decision to give him his
well earned retirement. He has achieved much and helped me achieve my dreams. I owe so much to my Lance. I could always rely on him. We were a fun team and now it's time to say goodbye to the international show ring. I hope Lancet will be remembered the way he showed himself today to his fans. That's very important to me."
With tears in her eyes, Hindle saluted in her last Freestyle aboard Lancet in Hickstead. The combination missed out on the World Equestrian Games as Lancet was injured in 2010 but the dark bay Hanoverian stallion, who is bred by the Clasen family, recovered completely and returned to the show ring in Fritzens and Hickstead. Lancet received a standing ovation in Hickstead when his retirement was announced.
The Hanoverian stallion by Wenzel x Shogun xx rose to stardom under Imke Schellekens-Bartels, who finished 11th at the 2004 Olympic Games. Hindle acquired Lancet after the Games and became the anchor of the British team for many years.
They competed at the 2005, 2007 and 2009 European Dressage Championships, the 2006 World Equestrian Games, and placed seventh at the 2008 Olympic Games in Hong Kong. They won team silver at the 2009 European Championships in Windsor.
Hindle will continue her competitive career with her new ride, the Swedish warmblood Brisbane, as well as with her self-trained Grand Prix horses Furstenreich and Chequille Z.
Photo © Caroline Finch
Related Links
Eurodressage Photo Database: Lancet
Lancet Sold to Emma Hindle
Brits On Magical Form at the 2011 CDI Fritzens
Brisbane, New Grand Prix Ride for Emma Hindle
Hindle and Lancet Sparkle at 2006 CDI-W Warsaw
Emma Hindle Pregnant
