Mike Clinton
Introduction: The Legendary Horse Hickstead
Hickstead was a legendary show jumping horse that captured the hearts of equestrian fans around the world. He was born in the Netherlands in 1996 and began his career in show jumping at the age of six. Hickstead was known for his incredible athletic ability, his fierce spirit, and his incredible partnership with his rider, Eric Lamaze.
A Brief History of Hickstead’s Career
Hickstead rose to fame in the world of show jumping in the early 2000s. He was a consistent performer on the international circuit, competing at the highest level and winning numerous titles and awards. Hickstead’s career highlights include winning the individual gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the individual silver medal at the 2010 World Equestrian Games, and the individual bronze medal at the 2007 Pan American Games.
The Partnership: Hickstead and Eric Lamaze
Hickstead’s incredible success can be attributed in large part to his partnership with his rider, Eric Lamaze. Lamaze and Hickstead were a perfect match, with Lamaze’s expert riding skills and Hickstead’s natural talent and athleticism. The two were known for their incredible bond, with Lamaze often referring to Hickstead as his best friend.
Eric Lamaze: A Profile of the Rider
Eric Lamaze is a Canadian show jumping rider who has had an illustrious career in the sport. He has represented Canada at numerous international competitions, including the Olympic Games, the World Equestrian Games, and the Pan American Games. Lamaze is known for his incredible skill and his ability to form strong partnerships with his horses.
Lamaze’s Journey to Riding Hickstead
Lamaze first began riding Hickstead in 2004, when the horse was just eight years old. From the beginning, it was clear that the two had a special connection, and they quickly began to dominate the show jumping world. Lamaze has credited Hickstead with helping him to achieve some of the greatest successes of his career.
The Victories: A Look at Hickstead’s Wins
Hickstead was one of the most successful show jumping horses of all time. Over the course of his career, he won numerous titles and awards, including the prestigious CN International Grand Prix at the Spruce Meadows Masters tournament in 2007, 2008, and 2009, and the World Cup Final in 2011.
The Tragic End: Hickstead’s Death
Tragically, Hickstead died in November 2011 while competing in Italy. The horse suffered a ruptured aorta while in the ring, and despite the best efforts of Lamaze and the veterinarians on site, he could not be saved. Hickstead’s death was a devastating loss for the equestrian world, and he is still deeply missed by fans around the world.
The Legacy: Hickstead’s Impact on the Equestrian World
Despite his short life, Hickstead left an indelible mark on the world of show jumping. He was a true legend of the sport, and his influence can still be seen today in the many riders who were inspired by his incredible career.
Remembering Hickstead: Tributes and Memorials
In the years since his death, many tributes and memorials have been created to honor Hickstead’s memory. These include a statue of the horse at the Spruce Meadows equestrian facility in Calgary, Canada, and an annual Hickstead Trophy awarded to the leading Canadian rider at the Spruce Meadows Masters tournament.
Conclusion: The Rider Who Rode the Horse Hickstead
Eric Lamaze and Hickstead were an incredible partnership that captured the hearts of equestrian fans around the world. Hickstead was one of the greatest show jumping horses of all time, and he will always be remembered for his incredible talent and his deep bond with his rider. Lamaze and Hickstead’s story is one of the most inspiring in the world of equestrian sports, and it serves as a reminder of the incredible things that can be accomplished when horse and rider work together as one.