San Calido and Moira Walsh at Tattersalls in 2013. Photo courtesy of Moira Walsh.
The eventing community mourns the loss of San Calido, who was euthanized Saturday after breaking his leg on the CCI* cross-country course at Osberton International Horse Trials in Nottinghamshire, England.
His rider and owner, amateur eventer Moira Walsh, said his leg shattered before or after take off at a fence early on course, and “Curly” still tried to jump, showing just how much heart he had. He was later euthanized due to the severity of the injury.
“He was the kindest, most talented and most beautiful horse that I can ever imagine has existed,” Moira said. “He made good all my mistakes. I loved him deeply for this. He was my soulmate in any time of sadness. Our relationship was unique. He is irreplaceable. I am devastated.”
Curly took Moira from her first BE90 to the one-star level during their partnership together. Formerly campaigned by Piggy French at the two-star level, Curly won the CCI2* at Weston Park International in 2005. He stepped down to the lower levels to be a teacher for Moira, who purchased him in 2010.
A beloved schoolmaster until his last day and 17 at the time of his death, the big dark bay gelding will be remembered for being exceptionally kind and caring toward his riders. Our hearts are with Moira as she mourns the loss of Curly.
Update: Bede Events released the following statement on Wednesday, Oct. 8:
“It is with great sadness that we announce that number 40 San Calido owned and ridden by Moira Walsh was put down as a result of an accident at fence number 9 The Oakham Vets Farm Yard whilst competing at Osberton International Horse Trials in Nottinghamshire at 09.36 am on 04/10/14.
San Calido a 17 year old gelding hit the first part of the combination and then landed awkwardly. Moira Walsh was un hurt in the fall. San Calido was examined on site and found to have broken its near foreleg and was humanely put down by the vet.”
