Jennifer Wooten and The Good Witch. Photo by Samantha Clark.
We’re very sad to report that The Good Witch, former 5* horse for Jennifer Wooten and the catalyst for many an eventing legend, has passed away at the age of 27.
Together with Jennifer, “Pooh” traveled the world, contesting 24 FEI competitions including seven at the now-CCI5* level. Her highest placing at the top level was a seventh-place finish at Kentucky in 2008. In her 5* debut, The Good Witch finished 11th at Pau (France). Jennifer and Pooh completed a total of 30 Advanced through 4* events during their time together, traveling to Europe five times and also earning accolades such as a short-list berth to the 2008 U.S. Olympic team and an award for USEA Mare of the Year, also in 2008. In 2010, Jennifer and Pooh won the USEA Adequan Advanced Gold Cup.
“Thank you for the last 17 years,” Jennifer wrote in a moving tribute on her social media. “You were my heart ❤️ horse and I will never forget the adventures we went on and the amazing village we built. You were fierce, brave & forgiving. We exceeded expectations and learned together.
“You & I were a magical example of when timing, opportunity & preparation meet. Our partnership tested every aspect of character & ability, celebrating the highs & crying through the lows. You were my teacher and then went in to teach others.
“Your heart was as big as the Ocean and always full of confidence. You loved to run & jump. I am so grateful to the people who were hugely influential in our lives:
“My mother, Nancy Wooten, for instilling your love of horses in me and for introducing me to Donn & Daisy Tognazzini. Daisy for taking a personal interest in helping me develop my riding career & Donn for purchasing Witchypoo.
Carol Gee, for trusting me with “Pooh” who was the start of “Fernhill Sport Horses”.
Ginnie Bryant, for mentoring, coaching, traveling & most of all pushing me to try my very best even when I felt way out of my comfort zone.
Charlene Eurick, for the hours upon hours, days, years you devoted to care for the two of us.
Auburn Brady, for your incredible friendship, adventure buddy & soul sister.
Paul McCellen, for the impeccable care of Pooh. She was so tough; you knew her so well.
Margo Jolly, you always kept her shoes on to perfection.
Becky Leisz, for caring & hacking her through the years.
Mia Farley, for taking over the ride when Pooh needed to step down.
Amanda Volk, filling in as Poohs groom and travel buddy when needed.
Andres Macouzet, the first day we met was when you were examining Pooh after we suffered a fall at Rolex Kentucky 5*. Our story began because of her.
“Witchypoo, your spirit leaves an impression, you defined my life.
“As your story came to an end yesterday morning, I am honored to have been there with you when you took your last breath. A kiss on your velvet nose and a long hard cry as a goodbye. I’ll you on the other side of the rainbow one day with ruby slippers on. I love you always and forever.
“Rest In Peace my friend 🐎.”
Mia Farley and The Good Witch at the AECs in 2014. Photo by Sally Spickard.
But the story wasn’t over from there. After finishing her time at the top, The Good Witch went on to be a teacher, notably for Mia Farley, who took over the ride when she was just 12 years old and won almost every event she started with the Irish mare.
“I really do give all credit to her for me wanting to do this sport as a career,” Mia said. And indeed, how many of us should be lucky enough to have “that horse” — the one that puts to bed any doubts or inhibitions you had about doing this incredible sport. For more than one person, “that horse” was one Good Witch, and she will be sorely missed.
