Clarke Johnstone and Orient Express at Kihikihi. Photo courtesy of Jane Thompson.
The Johnstone Family’s Orient Express, a 16-year-old Thoroughbred gelding piloted by Clark Johnstone, was sadly fatally injured while competing in the NRM CCI3* at Taupo in New Zealand earlier today.
Equestrian Sports New Zealand released the following statement:
It is with regret we announce that Orient Express, ridden by Clarke Johnstone and owned by the Johnstone family, was fatally injured while competing in the cross country phase at the National 3 Day Event at Taupo this afternoon. Clarke was not injured in this incident. Orient Express, a 16 year old gelding, had achieved many international successes in the sport.
Bev Shandley, President of the Ground Jury at the event said, “We are saddened by the loss of this fine equine athlete today, and we offer our sympathies to the Johnstone family.
Clark and Orient Express were in second place in their first CCI3* together since 2011, scoring a 38.1 in the dressage behind Shane Rose and CP Qualified.
Orient Express enjoyed a long career with Clark Johnstone, beginning his FEI career in 2006 at the one-star level. Orient Express, known as “Blue” at home, represented New Zealand on the World Equestrian Games stage in 2010, where the Kiwis took home the bronze medal.
Clark and Blue also accumulated two top-10 finishes in CCIO3* competition at Aachen as well as Blenheim in 2011. Interestingly enough, Blue was retired in 2013, but returned to FEI competition this year.
We will provide updates to this story as it develops. In the meantime, we send our deepest condolences to the Johnstone family.
Rest in peace, Blue.
