Reigning Olympic champion Hickstead has died during a World Cup event in Italy.
Reigning Olympic champion horse collapses at event
Hickstead, one of showjumping's greatest ever horses and the reigning Olympic champion, has died during a World Cup event in Italy.
The horse collapsed under his rider Eric Lamaze just after they had completed his round at the fourth of this season's World Cup series qualifiers.
As a mark of respect to the 15-year-old stallion, riders and organisers decided not to continue with the competition in Verona.
Hickstead took Olympic gold with Lamaze in Hong Kong three years ago and won countless grands prix and Nations Cup events worldwide.
A statement released by show organisers read: "As he was leaving the arena after his successful jumping round, Hickstead, the horse ridden by Canadian Eric Lamaze, suddenly collapsed.
"The veterinary services were immediately in attendance, but unfortunately the horse was already dead.
Saddened
"An autopsy to determine the cause of death is scheduled in the coming days.
"The organising committee were fully supportive of the request of the riders not to continue the competition and would like to express their affection and love towards one of the greatest horses in the history of the sport and his rider Eric Lamaze."
Former British number one Ben Maher, who was among the competitors in Verona, said on
Facebook: "The loss of Hickstead has saddened all of us here.
"As a mark of respect to Hickstead and Eric, the riders and organisers decided not to proceed with the show and held a minute's silence.
"Hickstead was truly one of the greatest showjumpers of all time."
