Hunter star dies of colic

Reaction, one of the most consistent show hunters in 10 years, has been put down after colic complications.

Home-bred by John and Sue Rawding, the 17.2hh middleweight — by the Selle Francais stallion Dallas out of the broodmare Cameo — crowned his career by becoming champion hunter at HOYS in 2004.

“In nine years at HOYS, he was never unplaced,” said Sue, who rode Reaction during his career. “He never got fed up with showing and was the nicest horse.”

This story was first published in Horse & Hound (23 February, ’06)