The news that we have all been hoping for has just been finalized. Peter Atkins has announced that Linda Martin agreed to sell her share of HJ Hampton “Henny” before the court ordered public auction. Peter will retain the ride. HJ Hampton was scheduled to be auctioned via a court order three weeks ago to dissolve the partnership between Martin and Atkins.
Peter said that details of the purchase agreement will remain confidential but he did say that several generous supporters stepped forward to assist with the purchase of “Henny.” Peter also said that plans are underway to syndicate Henny.
In a brief statement, Peter said “I’m overjoyed that this process is over and Henny can permanently stay with his family…I’m also deeply grateful for the tireless efforts of my attorneys and legal team at Vitt & Rattigan, and I’m profoundly humbled by the support I have received from countless Henny friends and fans.”
Three weeks ago the judge presiding over the Henny ownership case ruled that Henny would be sold at an auction. But then Peter announced that the auction had been postponed on his website, apparently as the parties came closer to reaching an agreement.
Update: As a nice addition to the story, it is young Owen Atkins’ birthday on Tuesday. He turns 4 years old and he got Henny back as a birthday present.
Henny of course placed 24th at the 2010 WEGs for Australia and his partnership with Peter has captured the hearts of eventing fans all over the world. Henny is well on his way recovering from Colic surgery in December and should be back in time to make a run at the 2012 Olympics, where we might get another incredible helmet cam video like this:
Go eventing.
