Clifton Lush, Jock Paget’s mount who was withdrawn from the New Zealand eventing team at the Rio Olympics, needed 100 stitches after he cut his face on a pipe outside his stable, his owner has told H&H.
Lucy Allison, who co-owns the horse with Frances Stead, said: “He was found by his groom with a gash five inches long. This necessitated the Olympic surgeon and three more vets sewing him up. The gash was large enough for the vet to be able to push his hand through from his cheek into his mouth. It took two hours and four layers, comprising over 100 stitches, to sew him up.
“Everyone attending him gave him every due care and attention, but as it was so close to his mouth, Jock had to ride him in a headcollar with reins attached. It was then apparent to everyone that time was against him, as he couldn’t have a bit in his mouth.”
Lush is now home and well on the road to recovery.
Clifton Lush back home in his field
(Image credit: creditUnknown)
“He is very well, ” said Lucy, adding that the horse will be aimed at Burghley (1-4 September) or if he needs more time, for the French four-star at Pau (12-16 October).
Clifton Lush’s stitches healing up after his return to the UK
(Image credit: creditUnknown)
Clifton Lush’s good results with Jock Paget include third at Badminton last year and sixth this year, as well as fifth at Burghley in 2011 and 2012.
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Pippa is a true eventing geek and has been H&H’s eventing editor since 2005. She has first-hand experience of competing up to British Eventing intermediate and international CCI2*-L level, and has worked in the industry on a top event yard. Pippa enjoys nothing more than immersing herself in the sport at the highest level, reporting from the five-stars and international championships, including the Olympics.
