Latest from Horse & Hound in Switzerland

Why are top riders Steve Guerdat and Martin Fuchs boycotting the Longines League of Nations?

Lucy Elder — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 17:06:13 +0000

Two of the biggest names in showjumping are shunning the FEI’s flagship series in 2025 over disagreement with its choice of venues.

London 2012 Olympic individual gold medallist Steve Guerdat and former European champion Martin Fuchs will not be competing in the Longines League of Nations this year.

The Longines League of Nations, which starts this week in the UAE, is a revamp of the Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup series and ran for the first time in 2024. Hickstead and Dublin were among the longstanding host venues that did not make the cut to hold legs of the new series.

The two riders cited the calendar and locations of the Longines League of Nations stages as reasons for their boycott.

“The Nations Cups are very important to me. I am critical of the fact that the best traditional tournaments that have shaped the history of our sport are not included in the Longines League of Nations calendar in order to support tournaments that, in my opinion, have few spectators and few reputations,” said Martin, who is currently ranked fifth in the world.

“I will be available to Switzerland for all other Nations Cups this season and am looking forward to a successful year.”

Longines League of Nations qualifiers will run at Abu Dhabi (15 February), Ocala (22 March), Rotterdam (20 June) and Gassin – St Tropez (21 September), with the final at Barcelona (2 to 5 October). The St Gallen leg, which was on the original calendar and was cancelled in 2024 owing to weather, has been replaced by the St Tropez fixture.

Switzerland will be contesting the Longines League of Nations in 2025.

Chef d’equipe Peter van der Waaij said: “The Longines League of Nations competitions bring additional pressure with the new format; we experienced that in 2024. It is crucial to be strong as a team and to support each other. These are key aspects for Nations Cups and with a view to the European and World Championships. An important goal within the Longines League of Nations series is of course to qualify for the final in Barcelona.”

During a press conference at Bordeaux, where he won the Longines World Cup jumping qualifier with Connor Jei, Martin added: “I’m really pleased to have the opportunity to talk not only about this win, but also about more serious topics than just this competition.

“For us, it’s really the competitions such as this in Bordeaux, Falsterbo, Dublin, Dinard, La Baule, which have this tradition, the crowd, a buzzy atmosphere of a top competition – we think it’s really important to support these competitions.”

He added that “of course it is great that there are new competitions”, giving the examples of Abu Dhabi and Ocala, but the traditional ones – “those that are the best in the world” – should be supported, rather than prioritising the new.

“I think the new ones need to prove themselves first. If they are better, if they do prove themselves to be better, then let’s discuss again a change in the calendar,” he said. “But we don’t agree with the way it’s been done and are very, very disappointed for the sake of our sport and the Nations Cup.”

World number two Steve Guerdat said Nations Cups are “very important to me” and that it is “always a great honour to represent Switzerland at a Nations Cup”.

“I am also 100% behind Swiss Equestrian,” he said. “The atmosphere at the Swiss Nations Cup in St. Gallen, for example, or at other traditional tournaments in equestrian countries is incomparable.

“There are fantastic tournaments with a great atmosphere all over the world. It is precisely this atmosphere that I miss at tournaments that are organised less for the horse-loving public than for a select audience – I cannot understand the FEI’s strategy regarding the Longines League of Nations.”

Swiss Equestrian sports manager Evelyne Niklaus added: “We have had extensive discussions with Martin Fuchs and Steve Guerdat. We respect this wish. Both will be part of the team at other Nations Cups and will give their all for Switzerland.”

Dublin and Hickstead are among the historic former Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup venues that now hold their own legs, independent of an FEI series.

An FEI spokesperson told H&H: “The FEI regrets the absence of these two top athletes at the Longines League of Nations, but fully respects the right of each competitor to make decisions based on their own priorities and circumstances.

“While St Gallen was initially part of the Longines League of Nations series, the decision to remove it was based on safety concerns and the need for venues to meet certain standards. This decision, though regrettable, was made in the best interest of the sport and its participants.”

The spokesperson added: “While the participation of top athletes like Martin Fuchs and Steve Guerdat is certainly valued, the strength of the series lies in the calibre of competitors from around the world, which we are confident will continue to attract passionate spectators to these prestigious events.”

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‘His abilities are undisputed’: Olympic medallist to coach elite team ahead of Paris Games

Becky Murray — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 18:08:45 +0000

Five-time Olympian and multiple medal-winning rider Markus Fuchs has been appointed the Swiss elite eventing team’s showjumping coach ahead of Paris 2024.

Markus takes over from the late Lesley McNaught, who died in December aged 59. He joins the Swiss federation on 1 February.

Markus’ illustrious competition career spanned more than four decades, and his first major championships was the World Championships in Aachen in 1978. He made his first Olympic appearance at the Seoul Games in 1988, and he went on to compete at the Barcelona Games in 1992, the 1996 Atlanta Games, the Sydney Games in 2000 where he won team silver, and the 2004 Olympics in Athens. He won six team and one individual European medal, including double silver at Hickstead in 1999 on the legendary stallion and his long-term championship partner Tinka’s Boy. The pair also won the showjumping World Cup final in 2001.

In 2009 Markus retired from competition and went on to work as a coach at home and abroad, including coaching the Italian showjumping team to a European team silver medal that year at Windsor.

Markus said that coaching the eventing riders is a “new challenge that he is happy to take on”.

“Working with the eventing team, especially in the Olympic year, motivates me a lot,” he said.

“The demands on the riders and also on the horses are somewhat different than in showjumping. It’s exactly these subtleties that motivate me. Lesley has done an excellent job and I can take on a great team. I’m really looking forward to working with the Swiss eventing elite team.”

A spokesman for Swiss Equestrian said that “Markus Fuchs’ sporting successes have shaped Switzerland’s equestrian history”, and that he has “long since proven his knowledge and skills as a trainer”.

“As the umbrella organisation of Swiss equestrian sport, we have been associated with Markus for many years. We know his qualities as a rider and trainer, and he is an absolute team player. We are convinced that he will continue on the path he has chosen with the Swiss eventing elite with a view to Paris 2024 and will help the riders advance in sport,” said Swiss Equestrian sports manager Evelyne Niklaus.

Dominik Burger, the Swiss eventing team’s chef d’equipe added that the federation is “very grateful to Markus for his commitment to the eventing team”.

“His abilities are undisputed,” he said. “Our riders were able to learn a lot from Lesley and they will carry her forward in their hearts.

“I am convinced that Markus will succeed in preparing our combinations excellently for the Olympic Games. We are really looking forward to working with him.”

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‘A rare, natural talent, taken far too soon’: sad farewell to Olympic rider and trainer

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 13:43:05 +0000

A British-born rider and coach who “shaped Swiss equestrian sport like no other Amazon and was considered a global icon” has died at the age of 59.

Lesley McNaught, described as a “true legend of showjumping” won six Olympic, world and European medals. She went on to become a top coach, training the Swiss eventing team in showjumping.

Lesley grew up on her family’s farm in Hinckley, Leicestershire, where she rode from a young age. She had success on ponies, and came to the attention of Ted and Liz Edgar, riding for David Broome.

She was junior European champion in 1981 with One More Time, and had success with horses bearing the Everest prefix, as well as Barbarossa and Barbarella, with whom she represented Britain on her first senior Nations Cup team.

She rode for Trevor Banks and Peter Milner, then moved to Switzerland to be based with Swiss rider Willi Melliger and her partner Markus Mandli.

Riding for her adopted country, with her great horses Dulf, Pirol and Doenhoff, her achievements included team silver at the 2000 Olympics, and team silver and individual bronze at the Europeans the previous year, team gold at the 1993 and 1995 Europeans, and team bronze at the 1994 World Equestrian Games. She competed at seven World Cup finals, with two podium finishes.

“It is a huge shock for the large equestrian family and for Swiss Equestrian,” said federation president Damian Miller. “Lesley McNaught was an exceptional rider and a woman who put her heart and soul into her sport, the horses and the riders on the team. She leaves a big gap. We express our heartfelt condolences to her family and friends.”

The 2016 Olympic champion Nick Skelton was based with Lesley at the Edgars’ Warwickshire stables in the 1980s.

“She was a very, very good rider; very competitive and a top-top rider, the best lady showjumper of all time,” said Nick.

Helena Stormanns (nėe Dickinson) competed alongside Lesley on ponies, and the pair jumped on their first Senior Nations Cup together for Britain.

“Lesley could get on a horse, connect and get the best out of it without any effort – she had that much talent,” said Helena. “At Edgars, she was down in the pecking order behind Liz and Nick Skelton and rode the ones that were left. But she turned the tables on them and beat them when they had the pick of the horses. I was very proud of her, it was an emancipation for lady riders and Lesley would be in my top five riders – all riders, not just ladies – of all time.”

“Losing Lesley is a big loss to the equestrian world – she was a very, very clever, knowledgeable, top horsewoman and great company,” said Andrew Nicholson, who was instrumental in getting Lesley on board with the Swiss eventing team.

A spokesman for British Showjumping added: “RIP Lesley. A complete horsewoman with a rare, natural talent taken far too soon. Thank you for all the memories.”

An informal memorial will held on Tuesday 9 January from 3pm to 6pm at Onley Grounds Equestrian Complex, Willoughby, Rugby, UK– more details

‘If not now, then when?’: dreams are made as five-star first-timers step up at Pau

Becky Murray — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 18:45:39 +0000

Five-star first-timers flourished on the opening day of the Pau Horse Trials dressage – despite the continuous downpours.

The Pau entries list is abundant with combinations – and horses – stepping up to the top level, and among them is Irishman Daragh Byrne, 27, and his father James Byrne’s 11-year-old Kilcannon Ramiro. The pair won the Ballindenisk CCI4*-L in 2022, and were fourth there this year.

Daragh could not hide his smile following their test on the first day in tricky weather conditions.

“This is our first five-star so it’s a whole new level, and tougher competition, but he coped really well with the atmosphere and it felt like he presented a good test,” said Daragh.

“There are plenty of places to improve on but overall for his first time at this level, and mine, I’m very happy with how he went. His trot work was very relaxed and his lateral work felt good. He was listening to me in there, which is always helpful.

“We fluffed one of the changes, which was a little disappointing but the other three felt good. I’ve put a lot of time and work into his changes as he struggled with them. We got three out of four today, so hopefully next time we can get four out of four!”

Daragh said it is a “dream come true” to be making his five-star debut.

“I’ve had him since he was a three-year-old and level by level he’s just kept stepping up bit by bit. Every hurdle we’ve thrown at him so far he’s answered, so fingers crossed he can get another hurdle out of the way on Saturday and prove he is a five-star horse.”

“If not now, then when?”

Swiss rider Nadja Minder, 23, made her five-star debut with Toblerone, whom she was 23rd with at the Europeans at Haras du Pin in August. The pair are in fifth on 30.5 following the opening day of proceedings.

“This horse keeps impressing me; he keeps making my dreams come true still. The dressage was never the easiest place for him and we had to work a lot, we really had to make him believe he can do it. Now it’s so cool that he believes in himself in there,” said Nadja following her test.

“It took me some time to really figure out how he ticks. It’s the same in the showjumping, he wants to be careful but didn’t really have the technique to do it, and it’s been a little bit the same in the dressage. As I got to know him better we figured the training out and don’t push him too hard.”

Nadja said entering Pau Horse Trials had been lingering on her mind for some time.

“I had been thinking about Pau since last December, but it takes a lot of good circumstances to get your horse to five-star,” she said.

“The thought process behind the decision was after the Europeans went well, and I always wanted to ride a five-star. I’m lucky to have other horses in my stable which I can think about for Paris 2024, maybe if there was only Toblerone I wouldn’t have had the courage to come here. But I thought it was the time to do it, and if not now, then when?”.

Nadja said she was “so proud” of Toblerone.

“I have to be careful that I don’t start to cry,” she said. “He’s so special. He came to me and we didn’t know he was ‘this’ good.”

Switzerland aim for a team medal with European Eventing Championships squad

Becky Murray — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 15:52:01 +0000

The nominated Swiss entries for the 2023 European Eventing Championships at Haras Du Pin (9-13 August) have been announced.

The Swiss equestrian federation’s (SVPS) selection committee has named four riders, three of whom have two potential rides listed.

Nadja Minder, 23, is the youngest of the squad. She is joined by her 2022 World Championships teammates Robin Godel, 25, Mélody Johner, 39, and Felix Vogg, 33.

The nominated Swiss entries for the European Eventing Championships are:

Robin Godel with 15-year-old gelding Grandeur De Lully CHOwner: Jean-Jacques FünfschillingBreeder: OwnerBreeding: by Grecco De Lully CH, out of a mare by Apartos

Mélody Johner with 16-year-old gelding Toubleu de RueireOwner: Peter Thürler and Heinz-Günter WickenhäuserBreeder: M Edouard NeuhausBreeding: by Mr Blue, out of a mare by Bayard D’Elle

Mélody Johner with 12-year-old gelding GB Keep Cool du PerchetOwner: Christina MaierBreeder: Pierre SaunierBreeding: by GB Konvally, out of a mare by Akribori

Nadja Minder with 16-year-old gelding TobleroneOwner: Nicole BasieuxBreeder: Eric AttigerBreeding: by Yarland’s Summer Song

Nadja Minder with 14-year-old gelding Victoryhope TreilleOwner: Petter AttingerBreeding: by Epsom Gesmeray, out of a mare by Oberon Du Moulin

Felix Vogg with 12-year-old mare CartaniaOwner: Felixand Phoenix Eventing S.à.r.l.Breeder: Koch GuenterBreeding: by Cartani 4, out of a mare by Clinton

Felix Vogg with 15-year-old gelding ColeroOwner: Jürgen VoggBreeder: Stephen SchwertBreeding: by Captain Fire, out of a mare by Bormio XX

SVPS also named Dominik Burger as chef d’equipe, and Antonia Müller will be the team vet. The team will be coached by Gilles Ngovan for dressage, Andrew Nicholson for cross-country and Lesley McNaught for showjumping.

“At the European Eventing Championships we can expect an interesting and difficult course, as well as strong competition. We have been able to prepare well in the last few months and at CHIO Aachen, and after the good results at the championships in recent years, we are highly motivated to get a taste of a team medal,” said Dominik.

Olympic showjumper banned from equestrian sport for seven years after animal cruelty

Becky Murray — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 16:09:21 +0000

Swiss showjumper Paul Estermann has been banned for seven years after he was found guilty of animal cruelty charges relating to his Olympic and European Championship rides.

In January H&H reported that the Swiss equestrian federation (SVPS) had applied for a provisional suspension of 60-year-old Mr Estermann after he was found guilty of animal cruelty charges against Castlefield Eclipse and Lord Pepsi.

Mr Estermann rode Castlefield Eclipse at the London 2012 Olympics, where the team were fourth and he was 17th individually. The combination were also part of the team for the 2013 Europeans and the 2014 World Equestrian Games, and the bronze medal-winning squad at the 2015 Europeans. Mr Estermann rode Lord Pepsi at the 2019 Europeans, and the 2015 Nations Cup and 2018 World Cup finals.

Legal proceedings were launched against Mr Estermann in 2017, and in 2019 SVPS announced he had been found guilty by Willisau District Court of violating the Animal Welfare Act.

During an appeal hearing at the Cantonal Court of Lucerne in January 2021, Mr Estermann was acquitted of two incidents involving Lord Pepsi between 2014 and 2017. But the court found him guilty of multiple counts of “wilful animal cruelty” against Castlefield Eclipse on 28 April 2016 and around a week beforehand, and against Lord Pepsi in the autumn of 2015.

The case was then taken to the Swiss Federal Supreme Court, and in March 2022 Mr Estermann’s appeal was “partially admitted”. The judgement of the Cantonal Court was annulled and it was sent for new assessment. In December 2022 Mr Estermann was again found guilty by the Lucerne Cantonal Court.

In January the SVPS board asked the SVPS sanctions commission (SAKO) to provisionally suspend Mr Estermann while an investigation took place. But on 24 February SAKO rejected this request, and said there was “no urgency”, as the outcome of its investigation was due in March.

In an SVPS statement yesterday (13 April) it was announced that during the SAKO investigation Mr Estermann was invited to a “voluntary survey”, but he decided not to.

“For SAKO, this underpins the behaviour of the rider, who showed no insight and no remorse for his actions throughout the criminal proceedings. This was also the case in the context of the SAKO procedure,” read the statement.

“After examining the files of the criminal proceedings, SAKO classifies the rider’s behaviour as absolutely unacceptable. He intentionally injured a horse moderately and caused him severe pain. The rider has thus defied the guidelines of the equestrian association. Such behaviour not only damages the image of equestrian sport, but also the reputation of the association.”

SAKO president Thomas Räber added that SAKO considers the “willful, selfish, and aggressive behaviour of the rider to be a blatant disregard for the wellbeing of the horse”.

Paul Estermann was banned from participating in national equestrian sport for seven years. He must also pay legal costs of 1,200 Swiss francs (£1,080). He has 20 days to appeal the decision.

‘These riders are role models’: national federation gives awards for good horsemanship in the warm-up

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 10 Apr 2023 18:51:27 +0000

Horses and riders in national competitions in Switzerland can win awards for the quality of their horsemanship and behaviour while warming up.

The Happy Horse project, introduced by Swiss Animal Protection (SAP) with the support of the national equestrian centre in Berne and the Swiss Equestrian Federation, was launched in 2019 and first implemented at dressage competitions the following year. In 2021 it was introduced in eventing, and from this year, showjumping warm-ups will also be judged.

“The SEF supports the project ideologically, but it is fully funded by the Swiss Animal Protection,” a spokesman for SEF told H&H. “The evaluation team consists of two or three people with many years of experience as trainers or judges, who are selected by SAP.

“Show organisers are welcoming the Happy Horse campaign and support it. They allow the SAP to present the prizes during the awards ceremony. The riders participating in the competition are informed in advance that they will be observed and assessed by the SAP during the warm-up.”

The spokesman said assessment of the warm-up is based on the idea of promoting “horse-friendly riding”. The judges consider relaxation, specific preparation for the competition, the riders’ aids and seat and the “behaviour of the horse produced by the aids” including the horse’s happiness and suppleness.

Points are awarded and all riders who achieve a certain number of points are given awards and vouchers for Swiss equestrian outfitter Hauptner.

“The rewarded riders are to be considered as role models for all equestrians,” the spokesman said.

SEF president Damian Müller told H&H horse welfare and public acceptance of horses’ involvement in sport are “hugely important issues today”.

“In Switzerland we have some of the most stringent animal welfare laws in the world and for the SEF there is zero tolerance for offences against those laws,” he said. “But it is not enough to punish bad examples. We must also reward positive action and put the spotlight on the fascinating partnership between humans and horses that makes our sport so unique. The Happy Horse project is the perfect example of this.”

Project manager Sandra Schaefler added: “The vast majority of equestrians make an honest effort to do justice to their horses, even in competition situations, and to treat them with respect at all times. The SAP would like to publicly recognise such behaviour with the Happy Horse award.”

Olympic showjumper faces suspension after animal cruelty conviction

Becky Murray — Wed, 18 Jan 2023 17:57:06 +0000

The Swiss equestrian federation has applied for a provisional suspension of Olympic showjumper Paul Estermann after he was found guilty of animal cruelty.

In 2017 legal proceedings were launched against 60-year-old Mr Estermann in relation to cruelty charges against horses Castlefield Eclipse and Lord Pepsi. After a number of appeals, in December 2022 Mr Estermann’s case was concluded and he was found guilty.

Mr Estermann rode Castlefield Eclipse at the London 2012 Olympics, where the team were fourth and he was 17th individually. The combination were also part of the team for the 2013 Europeans and the 2014 World Equestrian Games, and the bronze medal-winning squad at the 2015 Europeans. Mr Esterman rode Lord Pepsi at the 2019 Europeans, and the 2015 Nations Cup and 2018 World Cup finals.

In March 2017 the Swiss equestrian federation said Mr Estermann had informed the federation that investigations were taking place against him for suspected animal cruelty. Later that year the federation announced that Paul had withdrawn his interest in taking place at the 2017 Europeans, “in the interest of equestrian sport and in order not to burden the Swiss team”, while the investigations were ongoing.

Mr Estermann continued to compete nationally and internationally, and in 2019 returned to the Swiss team for the European Championships, with Lord Pepsi.

On 22 November 2019 the Swiss federation announced that Mr Estermann had been found guilty by the Willisau District Court of violating the Animal Welfare Act. Mr Estermann said he would appeal the decision, and the federation said the “presumption of innocence applies” while this was taking place. Despite filing his appeal, three days later Paul announced he would no longer compete for the Swiss team with immediate effect.

When the appeal was heard by the Cantonal Court of Lucerne in January 2021, Mr Estermann was acquitted of two incidents involving Lord Pepsi between 2014 and 2017. But the court found him guilty of multiple counts of “wilful animal cruelty” against Castlefield Eclipse on 28 April 2016 and around a week beforehand, and against Lord Pepsi in the autumn of 2015.

The case was taken to the Swiss Federal Supreme Court, and in March 2022 Mr Estermann’s appeal was “partially admitted”. The judgement of the Cantonal Court was annulled and it was sent for new assessment. At the time the Swiss federation said, “as a result, there is still no final conviction and the presumption of innocence continues to apply”.

In December 2022 Mr Estermann was again found guilty by the Lucerne Cantonal Court. In a statement published on Monday (16 January) the Swiss federation said “according to its information”, the appeal period for the revised sentence expired on 13 January 2023, and “thus, the conviction of Paul Estermann for multiple intentional animal cruelty is now final.”

The federation said based on this background, the board had immediately applied to the federation’s sanctions commission for a provisional suspension of Mr Estermann, “as a matter of urgency”.

“Taking into account Paul Estermann’s right to a fair hearing, a decision on the temporary ban is expected in the next few weeks,” said a federation spokesman.

Owing to the ongoing procedure the federation said it will not provide any further information until a decision is made.

Former European champion who suffered career-ending injury to be celebrated in retirement ceremony

Becky Murray — Sat, 19 Nov 2022 20:33:28 +0000

Clooney 51, the former European champion, with Swiss showjumper Martin Fuchs, will be celebrated in an official retirement ceremony, 16 months after he suffered a career-ending injury.

Clooney, 16, fractured a bone in his right humerus when he slipped and fell in the field on 16 August last year, nine days after he and Martin had been competing at the Tokyo Olympics. He returned home after almost two months in hospital, and is now enjoying his retirement.

Clooney’s “farewell ceremony” will take place on 11 December at CHI Geneva – where he won the Rolex grand prix with Martin Fuchs in 2019.

“He has been in the world’s most beautiful arenas, but he has been missing a final lap to say goodbye to his many fans,” said a CHI Geneva spokesman.

Clooney, owned by Luigi Baleri, was sourced by Martin’s father Thomas as a seven-year-old. Martin and Clooney had a glittering career, with multiple five-star and grand prix wins.

They won individual gold at the 2019 European Championships, and individual silver at the 2018 World Equestrian Games in Tryon. The pair were ninth individually at the Rio Olympics in 2016 and 16th in Tokyo.

Martin said Clooney is the “horse of his life” and an “extraordinary being”.

“He has given me so much and it is with him that I have had my greatest successes,” he said.

“His accident was a terrible ordeal for him and for all of my team, but in the face of it he proved what strength of character he has. Today, he is well and he deserves to have a ceremony that reflects his fabulous career and the genius that he is.”

Martin added that CHI Geneva was an “obvious choice” for the ceremony.

“We had one of our most beautiful moments here when we won the Rolex grand prix,” he said.

“I am very much looking forward to this farewell, which promises to be very emotional, and during which I will be surrounded by the great Geneva public, my family, my team and my friends.”

Olympic showjumper recovering from surgery on broken bone in front leg

Lucy Elder — Thu, 24 Mar 2022 16:02:48 +0000

Olympic showjumper Twentytwo Des Biches is recovering after breaking a bone in her left foreleg in an accident at the final fence of the CSI5* Paris grand prix (20 March).

The 15-year-old mare, ridden by Switzerland’s Bryan Balsiger, was attended by on-site vets, before being taken to the veterinary clinic in Grosbois.

She underwent surgery on Monday (21 March), carried out by specialist Dr Fabrice Rossignol following consultation with Twenty’s regular vet, Thomas Wagner, and vet Anton Fürst of Zurich University.

An update from connections on Tuesday (22 March) said the surgery “went well” and the vets are “very happy with the result”.

“Recovery will obviously take time and the only goal is that Twenty can enjoy the retirement she deserves,” said the statement from her connections.

The Selle Francais mare, by Mylord Carthago, was part of the Swiss bronze medal-winning team at the 2017 Europeans with Romain Duget and the pair finished second at the World Cup final the same year. Bryan took the ride in 2018, and the pair made their international competition debut as a combination in 2019. They have numerous top international wins and placings and were part of the fifth-placed team at last summer’s Tokyo Olympics.

“This event is very difficult for me and I am very affected,” said Bryan. “But I am also relieved today to see that the operation went well and that Twenty is standing and can already walk.

“I now hope from the bottom of my heart that she recovers well so that I can see her as soon as possible at the park. Twenty gave me so much and allowed me to reach my dreams, she means so much to me. I thank everyone for the great support received since Sunday during this period. It touches me.”

Owner Christiana Brechtbühl added that Twenty is a “member of our family and what happened is extremely hard to live with”.

“We have lived through very difficult times, but these are fortunately behind us. We have done everything for Twenty and will continue to do so,” she said.

“Bryan and I are still in the Paris region with her. Our only objective is that she can enjoy the retirement she deserves after having given so much for us and had such a great and great sporting career.

“We were very touched by the many tokens of support we received. We would like to thank the veterinary teams on site in Paris as well as at the Clinique de Grosbois, as well as the Paris CSI organising committee for what they have done for Twenty and for us”.

Swiss team manager Michel Sorg said the accident is a “huge shock for the Swiss team”.

“We [supported] Christiana Brechtbühl, Bryan Balsiger, Mélusine Guiblin-Miché and all their team as best we could on site and also after that. And of course we continue to do so,” he said.

“It is a great relief to know that the operation went well. We all have only one wish, that Twenty can enjoy a nice retirement in the meadow after such a great career during which she gave so much to our Swiss team.

“Once again, we send our full support and thoughts to the entire Twentytwo team.”

‘Welcome home Clooney’: top showjumper who broke his shoulder leaves hospital

Becky Murray — Fri, 22 Oct 2021 19:33:04 +0000

Celebrations have taken place as Clooney 51, the former European champion ride of Swiss showjumper Martin Fuchs, has returned home from hospital.

The 15-year-old gelding fractured a bone in his shoulder – his right humerus – when he slipped and fell in the field on 16 August, nine days after he and Martin had been jumping at the Tokyo Olympics.

Clooney was taken to Tierspital Zurich hospital and Martin said at the time the gelding was receiving the best care with all involved working towards making a field retirement possible. He was being supported in a sling to help stabilise him, but he was eating well and able to put weight on his injured leg.

Martin has since shared regular updates on Clooney’s condition including him taking his first steps out in-hand on 1 September. A video shared a week later showed the gelding having made improvements, with Martin stating the son of Cornet Obolensky was “progressing every day” and he “couldn’t be happier”.

On 19 October Martin said it was a “special day” as he welcomed Clooney home. Pictures of the occasion showed a party and Clooney looking approvingly at his “Welcome home Clooney” gift made out of carrots.

Special day… Welcome home Clooney!❤️???Thank you Tierspital Zürich for taking the best care of our champion??Posted by Martin Fuchs on Tuesday, October 19, 2021

“Thank you Tierspital Zürich for taking the best care of our champion,” said Martin.

Clooney 51, owned by Luigi Baleri, was sourced by Martin’s father Thomas as a seven-year-old. Martin and Clooney won individual gold at the 2019 European Championships, and individual silver at the 2018 World Equestrian Games. Tokyo was their second Olympics; they finished ninth individually at Rio 2016 and 16th in Tokyo, where the Swiss team finished in fifth place.

Lightning strikes twice: astonishing result in blistering Glock’s grand prix

Lucy Elder — Sun, 18 Jun 2017 17:32:55 +0000

A winning formula struck twice in the same class in a remarkable finish to Glock’s CSI5* grand prix.

Swiss Olympians Steve Guerdat (Corbinian) and Martin Fuchs (Clooney 51) shared the first prize in the show’s feature class after finishing clear and on exactly the same time in a nail-biting jump-off.

But that is just the start — not only are the men best friends and compatriots, but their winning horses are the same age (11), are both sired by Cornet Obolensky and have the same owners.

The pair are also based just 3km apart and both train with Martin’s father, Thomas Fuchs.

“It is a very special story what happened today and something for sure that will never happen again and that I will always remember,” said Steve.

“It would be amazing if that had happened in a small class; it would be amazing if that had happened with someone else; but with everything to happen just the way it happened in that kind of class — it is something to remember for sure.”

Just eight riders finished on zero in the first round to make it through to the jump-off.

With the first three of these tipping a fence each, Steve was the first to finish on a clean slate with a textbook clear.

Steve Guerdat (SUI) & Corbinian – Winners of the GLOCK's 5* Gr…Steve Guerdat (SUI) & Corbinian ?Winners of the GLOCK's 5* Grand Prix (1,60 m) ?Posted by Glock Horse Performance Center on Sunday, June 18, 2017

“I saw Steve go and I knew where I could try to make some time, I’m not always the fastest with Clooney, but I knew that the jump off suited me very well today so I gave it a go,” said Martin.

“When I went in there were only two clear rounds. I was [standing] with my uncle Marcus Fuchs and Werner Muff asking them ‘what should I do? Should I just go for the slow clear?’

“I knew the jump off suited me very well and before I went in I asked my uncle again and he said ‘that’s really not a Fuchs attitude!’

“I didn’t have the best shot to the last jump, then through the finish line I looked up and I saw ‘first place’ but then I saw ‘Steve Guerdat first rank’ too.

“That was amazing — I looked out at the warm-up and did a thumbs up to Steve and he was just there smiling.”

Martin Fuchs (SUI) & Clooney 51 – Winners of the GLOCK's 5* Gr…Martin Fuchs (SUI) & Clooney 51 ?Winners of the GLOCK's 5* Grand Prix (1,60 m) ?Posted by Glock Horse Performance Center on Sunday, June 18, 2017

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Cian O’Connor finished third after a bold round on the aptly-named scopey Skyhorse, posting the only other double-clear of the competition.

This has been a fantastic week for the Irishman, who won two five-star classes at the show aboard Copain Du Perchet CH and Callisto just weeks after making his return to the saddle following a groin injury.

For the full report from Glock’s, don’t miss this week’s Horse & Hound — out Thursday (21 June).

Seriously injured British jockey learns to walk again

Lucy Elder — Fri, 21 Apr 2017 10:05:05 +0000

A British jockey who was seriously injured at St Moritz in February has learned to walk again.

George Baker was treated in intensive care after the horse he was riding, Boomerang Bob, fell and was fatally injured in the opening race of the meeting on 26 February.

Two other horses came down, but escaped injury as did their jockeys.

George was taken to hospital in Chur, Switzerland, by air ambulance and transferred to The Wellington Hospital in London eight days later after making good progress.

He was discharged yesterday (20 April) and has moved to the Glenside Rehabilitation Centre in Salisbury, which is closer to his home.

“The staff at The Wellington have been amazing,” said George.

“I arrived there on 6 March and they told my wife Nicola that I would be there for at least four months.

“Thanks to their support, I have made really good progress, have learned to walk again and hope to get home in the next month or so.

“Everybody has been so kind, I am very grateful for all the good wishes I have received and I count myself really lucky.”

Anyone hoping to see George is asked to make an appointment before they visit.

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At St Moritz, horses race on a snow-covered track across a frozen lake. After the accident, the remainder of the meeting was cancelled.

Race organiser White Turf said a crack was found in the ice after George’s fall and the safety of horses and riders “could no longer be guaranteed”.

“Following a detailed investigation by the race management and those responsible for White Turf, a crack in the ice had occurred on the inner rails of the racetrack, some 150m from the finishing line,” said a White Turf spokesman.

“This meant that water had come up to undermine the racetrack.

“That is why the race day had to be cancelled, which was acknowledged with applause by the spectators.”

Helicopters save horses in dramatic river rescues

Horse & Hound — Wed, 27 Jan 2016 10:57:06 +0000

A horse was rescued in a dramatic style in Switzerland last week after falling into the river Rhone.

A helicopter was enlisted to help the horse, which had fallen when being ridden alongside the river on Thursday (21 January).

According to local press the rider reportedly lost balance and was unseated. The horse then tumbled into the river.

Neither horse nor rider were hurt, however the horse had to be lifted to safety by a helicopter.

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Local police — the Police Cantonale du Valais — contacted Air Zermatt, the mountain rescue service, to help the horse.

Images were posted online by the force, showing the unusual rescue.

Meanwhile, a pair of horses airlifted to safety in Alaska after falling into a river crossing featured in a television programme last week.

The pack-horses lost their footing in a remote Alaskan backcountry, eight hours from the nearest road.

One of the horses, called Lucky, was badly injured by the rocks in the river and his legs were swollen and cut.

The vet, Dr Dee, told local press that the horse’s legs looked “like someone had taken a sledgehammer to them”.

The horse couldn’t stand nor walk so the rescue team resorted to calling a helicopter.

Lucky was treated for his injuries but a few days after his rescue he deteriorated further and had to be put down.

German Equestrian Federation enforces ‘good riding’ rule

Amy Mathieson — Sun, 24 Jan 2016 07:03:09 +0000

The horse world is continuing to clamp down on riding styles and training techniques in order to promote a positive public view of the sport.

Last month the board of directors of the German Equestrian Federation decided to implement a new rule based around “good riding”.

The rule reads: “When it comes down to team nomination for championships, not only the potential for success will count, but also the strict following of the guidelines for riding, driving and vaulting.

“The federation disapproves of any training methods that go against the guidelines.

“This means explicitly any aggressive riding or training methods which entail a forceful handling of the horse.”

Last year the Swiss Equestrian Federation banned draw reins in warm-ups and competition at national shows to try to improve the profile of showjumping.

They were previously allowed under Swiss showjumping rules during the warm-up prior to the first fence and in prize-givings.

However, from 1 January draw reins are no longer permitted at national shows, in an attempt to improve the profile of horse sport.

The Swiss Equestrian Federation said it wants to “engage continuously and proactively in the welfare of the horses and the reputation of equestrian sports”, adding that draw reins paint a negative image for non-riders.

A Swiss federation spokesman added: “Equestrianism is often the focus of public attention, but not always in a positive way. An image suggesting violence undermines the reputation of equestrian sports.”Germany is now looking at rules regarding draw reins following Switzerland’s announcement last week that the national federation was taking a stand and banning the training aids at shows at national level.

A spokesman for the German Equestrian Federation told H&H that the “use of draw reins at riding shows in Germany is under discussion”. Currently they are allowed in prize-givings and flat work before jumping.traint

At shows run under FEI rules draw reins would still be permitted in the warm-up. However, it is hoped by some riders, including trainer Christopher Bartle, that the rule change could have far-reaching consequences and lead to riders training differently.

Steve Guerdat eyes Rolex Grand Slam after Geneva win VIDEO

Amy Mathieson — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 10:55:28 +0000

Swiss rider Steve Guerdat is one step closer winning the Rolex Grand Slam of showjumping, after taking the first leg of the treble at CHI Geneva.

Steve and his 2012 Olympic gold medal-winning partner Nino Des Buissonnets took the prestigious Geneva grand prix at the show on Sunday (13 December).

Earlier this year world number one Scott Brash made history by becoming the first rider to win the prize — which is made up of three grands prixs, Geneva, Aachen and Spruce Meadows.

At Spruce Meadows on 13 September Scott picked up a €1.3million (£950,000) total prize fund – which included the €1million grand slam bonus for winning the treble.

Scott was knocked out of contention when Hello Sanctos clipped a fence in the first round, but Steve will have the opportunity to follow in the Scotsman’s footsteps.

He was cheered on by a home crowd, as 9,500 spectators packed into the world-famous Geneva Palexpo Arena.

Sixteen riders made it through to the jump off, with Steve ninth to go. He made it round in 40.94 secs, ahead of Canadian rider Eric Lamaze who had been lying in first place. The remaining seven riders couldn’t catch him and Steve took the spoils.

The beginning of the jump-off was a little bit difficult for me and Nino, but he is a special horse – he is a genius,” said Steve.

“The rest of the jump-off went as we’d planned and I am really happy with the result. This show is really, really important for me. I always plan it as it is one of the main weekends in the year for me, it is not just another show so I try to plan in advance and come with fresh horses like it is a Championship. The crowd always helps me and luck must do the rest.”

Steve will now be aiming at the Aachen grand prix next July.

There is a €1million bonus for three victories, but two out of three wins also comes with a prize.

If two grands prixs in succession are won the rider will take home a €500,000 bonus. If two classes are taken non-consecutively there is €250,000 up for grabs.

Germany to re-examine draw reins rules

Amy Mathieson — Tue, 10 Nov 2015 07:19:39 +0000

Germany is now looking at rules regarding draw reins following Switzerland’s announcement last week that the national federation was taking a stand and banning the training aids at shows at national level.

Draw reins are currently allowed under Swiss showjumping rules during the warm-up prior to the first fence and in prize-givings.

However, from 1 January 2016 they will not be allowed at national shows, in an attempt to improve the profile of horse sport.

The Swiss Equestrian Federation said it wants to “engage continuously and proactively in the welfare of the horses and the reputation of equestrian sports”, adding that draw reins paint a negative image for non-riders.

A spokesman for the German Equestrian Federation told H&H that the “use of draw reins at riding shows in Germany is under discussion”. Currently they are allowed in prize-givings and flat work before jumping.

Draw reins are already banned everywhere except prize-givings under Dutch rules.

H&H asked British Showjumping if it was considering taking action, but the organisation didn’t answer the query. The British Equestrian Federation declined to comment.

At shows run under FEI rules in Germany and the Netherlands, draw reins would still be permitted in the warm-up. However, it is hoped by some riders, including trainer Christopher Bartle, that the rule change could have far-reaching consequences and lead to riders training differently.

H&H readers agreed with the ban to be enforced by Switzerland.

“About time. If your horse is correctly trained then draw reins aren’t needed. They are a poor excuse for poor training regimes,” said Beth Scott.

Sylvia Frehner also said it was “about time this happened,” while Millie Wilkinson said she “completely agrees with this move”.

Lauren Hoare added: “Well done Switzerland.”

However, many countered that in the correct hands they can be useful.

“There’s nothing wrong with draw reins if used in the correct manner by the right person as a training aid,” said Kay Edwina Coates.

What do you think? Email hhletters@timeinc.com

Top Swiss rider to miss European Championships

Amy Mathieson — Tue, 11 Aug 2015 11:31:44 +0000

Top Swiss combination Steve Guerdat and Nino Des Buissonnets will not be taking part in next week’s FEI European Showjumping Championships (19-23 August) as the horse remains suspended.

The horse tested positive for banned substances in May.

The FEI Tribunal yesterday (Monday 10 August) ruled that the two-month provisional suspension on the 2012 Olympic gold medal-winning horse was to be upheld.

Two other Swiss horses — Nasa, also partnered by Steve, and Charivari KG ridden by Alessandra Bichsel — also remain suspended after testing positive for banned drugs.

Both riders were cleared to compete again last month (27 July), following a hearing in which they pleaded food contamination caused the postive tests.

This meant that the Olympic champion would be free to jump at the Europeans. However, he is now without his top horse.

“The FEI Tribunal subsequently responded to Guerdat’s request for a further decision regarding the lifting of the provisional suspensions on his horses to be taken by 10 August, the closing date for definite entries for the FEI European Showjumping Championships 2015 in Aachen,” read a statement from the FEI.

“As a result of the FEI Tribunal decision to maintain the provisional suspensions of the horses, although Guerdat is eligible to compete in Aachen, he will not be able to ride Nino Des Buissonnets, one of his horses declared for the championships and will need to select an alternative pre-declared horse.”

But last night (Monday 10 August) the Swiss squad was chosen, and Steve — who is ranked at number three in the world — is not on the list.

Romain Duguet and Quorida du Treho, Paul Estermann and Castlefield Eclipse, Martin Fuchs and Clooney III, Niklaus Rutschi and Windsor XY and Janika Sprunger and Bonne Chance CW have had the call-up.

The Swiss Equestrian Federation added that Niklaus takes the place of Steve, in light of his strong performance in the Dublin Nations Cup.

Samples were taken at the CSIO5* at La Baule in France on 17 May from Steve’s London 2012 gold medal-winning partner Nino Des Buissonnets, on the day the 14-year-old gelding won the grand prix.

The tests returned positive for codeine and oripavine — banned substances — and morphine, a controlled substance.

At the same show but a day earlier (16 May), samples were taken from Steve’s other ride, Nasa, after the 14-year-old grey mare finished third in the La Baule Derby.

These tests were positive for codeine and morphine. The horse’s sample also showed traces of oripavine, but not at a sufficiently high level for the testing laboratory to declare a positive for the substance.

Electric motor to ease the burden on working horses

Charlotte White — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 15:33:27 +0000

Working horses will be able to take life a little easier with a new electric hybrid cart being tested at the Swiss National Stud.

Horses have made a comeback in more than 120 cities and towns across France and Switzerland. They are used to pull rubbish and recycling collection carts, in parks maintenance and as “green” school buses.

Now a hybrid cart — with an electric motor that cuts in to help with hills and on difficult terrain — has been developed by Swiss technology company Meterus and the Fribourg College of Engineering and Architecture, with government help.

Reudi von Neiderhäusen of the Swiss Stud said: “We have used six different horses to test the cart, looking at the effect it has on the horse.

“Our research is not concluded, but the response from local people has been very positive. It changes people’s relationship with the street cleaners for the better when they are using a horse rather than a tractor.”

This news story was first published in the current issue of H&H (15 November 2012)

Swiss Olympic showjumping team chosen

Charlotte White — Wed, 27 Jun 2012 11:38:48 +0000

The British showjumping team may still be under wraps but Urs Gr ¼nig, Switzerland’s chef d’equipe, has revealed the Swiss combinations they will face at Greenwich.

The Swiss team will be:

Clarissa Crotta with West Side van Meerputhoeve
Steve Guerdat with Nino des Buisssonnets, Nasa or Carpalo,
Werner Muff with Kiamon
Pius Schwizer with Carlina or Verdi
Reserve: Paul Estermann with Castlefield Eclipse

And the Brits can sum them up in advance as Switzerland is sending the team – minus Clarissa Crotta – to Aachen.