“Rest in Peace Big Man”: 30-Year-Old Eventing Champion Horse Euthanized After Historic Career

The mere fact that racehorses are subject to such illustrious careers throughout their lives is admirable. If not equal, they are no less than the athletes that shine through and emerge as champions. Thus, the remorse of their loss strikes similarly. 3x five-star winner, Primmore’s Pride was put down on the 20th of March, at the age of 30. Equestrian icon, Pippa Funnell, who rode him to victory and earned 2x Olympic medals, expressed her affection for the late eventing great.

In a recent article by Horse & Hound, the horse’s successful feats in the sport were spotlighted. Moreover, the overwhelming list of achievements is treasured by his owners, Roger and Denise Lincoln. He spent his last few days at the Park Farm Stud. Here’s how his family remembers him. 

The reign of Primmore’s Pride

As reported by the sources, the 2002 British National Champion was euthanized yesterday, marking the end of his charming presence. Therefore, Funnell was thankful to his owners for bringing the horse to light and exposing him to the equestrian community. “Rest in peace big man – you really were one of my very special boys. Thank you,” she said. Apparently, the duo grabbed silver at the 2004 Athens Olympics. 

Furthermore, the 54-year-old athlete added, “How grateful I am to Denise and Roger Lincoln for giving me the opportunity to produce and compete Kiri throughout his eventing career.” The racehorse was bred out by Joanna and Roger Day’s mare, Primmore Hill, with Mark Todd’s Mayhill. Born as Kiri, he was bought into Roger and Denise Lincoln’s ownership as a foal, in 1993. Kickstarting his triumphs in 1998, Kiri won Badminton in 2005 and was awarded 3x four stars, the only event horse to have won. 

Read More: 54-Year-Old Equestrian, Who Was Once Left Paralyzed by a Disastrous Accident, Remained Hopeful to Become a ‘Miracle’ Patient

“We are so pleased that after everything he gave as a competition horse, he could relax in his later years in the ownership of one family for almost the entirety of his life,” Denise remarked. The owners also admitted to being grateful for their relationship with Kiri and regarded him as a “special horse.” His champion rider, Funnell, revealed she always felt right with him and knew he would soon emerge as a champion. Likewise, after an unfortunate crash, another eventing icon was euthanized in 2009. 

Derby training goes wrong; loss of champion

As per a report by Wave 3, a pure-bred horse, Raspberry Kiss, once incurred serious injuries after a 3-year-old colt, Dr. Rap, went out of control and dashed into the filly. The head-on collision persuaded the officials to rush them to medical supervision. However, Raspberry Kiss couldn’t be saved and had to be put down by mercy.

The accident took place during a Derby Training in Kentucky, around a decade ago. “Was a terrible situation, and obviously a very dangerous situation one for everybody out there,” a trainer, Todd Pletcher spoke on the case. 

Watch this story: Top 10 Moments of Olympic Sporting Spirit

While mishaps can be prevented, natural selection cannot be. Kiri lived to the fullest, and his grandiose career is proof of the same. Moreover, he spent his last few moments in peace and was put down in his favor. Nevertheless, it still aches the heart of the sports community upon the significant loss.