Dressage stallion Cardinar has died at the age of 29.
Imported from Germany as a four-year-old, Cardinar became British Warmblood Society champion in 1990.
The 100-day tested stallion was owned by Warwickshire-based Paul Friday for 25 years, during which time he trained and competed him to prix St Georges level.
He also stood at Paul’s own private stud.
“Cardinar and I built our careers together and taught each other everything,” Paul told H&H.
“He leaves behind a remarkable legacy in the form of his numerous, successful offspring.
“He was such a lovely horse, a complete gentleman.”
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Cardinar’s progeny have gone on to do well in dressage, showjumping and eventing as well as in the show ring.
His offspring have competed at the Young Dressage Horse championships and many have reached advanced level.
He was known for passing on his good temperament to his young stock.
“Even after a career of breeding he was still so content out in the field with his field buddy, Dominic the Shetland,” Paul added.
“It has been a privilege and an honour to own him and he leaves a huge gap in the yard.”
Cardinar was put down on 16 December due to the start of renal failure.
The dressage trainer also paid tribute to the stallion on his Facebook page.
“We have said ‘farewell’ to the irreplaceable Cardinar, who has been a huge part of my life for the past 25 years and sadly passed away just shy of his 30th birthday,” he said.
“We have built our careers together and taught each other everything.
“Life will never quite be the same again, but what a remarkable legacy Cardinar leaves behind.
“Rest in peace, my dear friend — it’s been a privilege and an honour.”
