The 10-year-old, by Mark’s great former campaigner Montreuxs Tale and owned by Martyn Edwards, was competing in a CSI4* 1.35m two-phase class and jumping clear when she sustained a catastrophic leg injury.
“We are utterly heartbroken,” said Mark. “Royale Tale, bred by Sean and Charlene Daly, was a star with immense potential. She had recently showcased her talent with a win in the speed Derby at Hickstead, along with multiple victories in speed and grand prix classes internationally over the last few years.”
“It is painful to know we will never see just how far she could have gone,” he said.
He added: “A huge thanks to our fantastic groom Brooke who has cared for her so well since last year, it’s hard to say goodbye. Thank you to everyone for their kind words and support, it means a lot.”
Royale Tale earned the 2025 Brilliance Horse Auction speed Derby title on her first attempt last month and had won CSI3* and CSI4* international classes at Bolesworth International Horse Show, presented by Al Shira’aa, over the last two weeks.
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A spokesperson for Bolesworth International said: “It is with great sadness that we have to report that Royale Tale, ridden by Mark Edwards, and owned by Martyn Edwards, was put down as a result of a fracture to her hind leg.
“The horse was immediately attended and assessed by the FEI event veterinary team.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with Mark, his groom and all of Royale Tale‘s connections.”
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Lucy is an experienced news journalist, reporter and presenter. Since joining the Horse & Hound team in 2015, Lucy has reported from major global sporting events including the Tokyo Paralympic Games and multiple European Championships, as well as Badminton, Burghley and London, to name a few. She has covered current affairs and sports news across the full spectrum of equestrian disciplines and racing, as well as human and equine welfare, industry news and court cases.
