Charlotte Dujardin and Valegro competing at 2014 London Olympia. Photo courtesy of Kit Houghton/FEI.
It’s been a bittersweet day for the global equestrian community, as Charlotte Dujardin has announced that the reigning Olympic, World and European dressage champion Valegro may retire next year following the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.
Carl Hester later clarified to Horse & Hound that if “Blueberry” does retire next year, it would likely be in front of his hometown crowd following an encore performance at London Olympia in December.
The 13-year-old Dutch gelding has captured our hearts and imaginations over the years with stunning performances we won’t soon forget. Here are three top Valegro moments that stand out to us. Share your own “Blueberry” moments in the comments below.
1. World-record breaking Freestyle test at 2014 London Olympia, 94.300%
2. Gold-medal winning Freestyle test at the 2014 World Equestrian Games, 92.161%
3. Gold-medal winning Freestyle test at the 2012 London Olympics, 90.089%
This post was updated on Nov. 17 with additional information on Valegro’s retirement plans.
