Former British team pony DHI Langar has passed away on 25 August 2017 at age 21. The pony suffered from a sudden, unknown infection which put massive strain on the his heart. It was decided in his best interest to euthanize him.
The 1996 born German Riding Pony Langar (by Lukas x Downland Folklore) took five British riders into the international show ring and competed at four European Championships between 2003 and 2015!
Under Natalie Allan the dark bay first competed internationally as a 6-year old. They rode at his first European Championships in Ireland in 2003 and won team Bronze medal. In 2005, Langar replicated this success with Portia Manning; both at the European Championships in Italy, again winning Team Bronze.
Accompanied by then 12-year-old Natasha Leak, he competed at the 2006 European Pony Championships in Saumur, France, again part of a successful team coming fourth. Natasha’s sister Olivia briefly continued Langar’s international career.
Isobel Berrington started riding Langar in 2012, taking on a great legacy of all his previous successes. They won a historic team gold medal at the 2015 European Pony Championships in Malmo, Sweden.
“I’m sure all of his riders would agree that the challenges he placed upon us was emotionally draining at times, but essentially he made us all better and successful riders, from Ponies onwards,” said Isobel.
“Langar’s cheeky nature came through not only at home and in the stable, but also in the arena, giving many judges, trainers, parents and riders some fond memories. I’m sure the likes of Ian Woodhead, Tracy Woodhead, Peter Storr and Islay Auty and many more have very entertaining tales! However, the boy excelled himself in the end, helping to bring the country its first ever Pony European Team Gold in Malmo in 2015, finally achieving that magical 70% at the Europeans (after being both the oldest and freshest pony there)!”
Langar spent his last two years in semi-retirement, enjoying life with Zara Lewis, teaching yet another youngster the ropes in the BYRDS system.
Langar's passing was very sudden and unexpected. "He didn't deserve to suffer or be in pain, and had to take the advice of the vet," Berrington told Eurodressage. "I'm just glad he had the last two years being a normal pony out in the field with friends, and didn't have to suffer. It was very quick. We were looking forward to having him back home to fully retire, and I am devastated this now won't happen."
Photos © Astrid Appels - private
Related Links
Eurodressage Photo Database: Langar
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British Pony Squad for 2009
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British Pony Team Selected for 2005 European Championships
British Pony Team Announced for 2003 European Pony Championships
Last Series of Qualified Combinations for 2001 German Bundeschampionate