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Vale Headley Britannia

Published on Thursday, April 3, 2014 in General
Lucinda Fredericks and Headley Britannia
Winning the 2009 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event
Photograph: Kit Houghton/FEI 

By: Michelle Cook/Equestrian Australia

The equestrian community is remembering Lucinda Fredericks’ champion mare Headley Britannia (21) who was sadly put to sleep on Tuesday.

‘Brit’ was a star of the eventing scene and retired in 2012 after a formidable career in which she became one of only two horses to win three of the world’s four-star events, Badminton (2007), Burghley (2006) and Kentucky (2009). 

In winning Badminton in 2007 she became the first mare in 53 years to take the title.

In 2008, Brit and Fredericks won a silver medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games in the team’s eventing competition.

Many considered the little chestnut to be the best eventing mare of all time and while she was smaller than most elite event horses, she had no shortage of courage.

“Brit’s competitive spirit, manoeuvrability, sheer guts and a will to win propelled her to the top of the equestrian sport of eventing,” Lucinda said.

“She was small but had such a huge heart.  She was a true professional and made my career what it is, and without her I wouldn’t be where I am.  She was my best friend.  She touched so many people’s lives and always brought a smile to everyone’s face.”

Equestrian Australia Chairman, Dr Warwick Vale conveyed his deepest condolences to Lucinda and those who knew Brit.

“This is a sad day for Lucinda and her team. On behalf of Equestrian Australia I offer my sincerest condolences to all of Brit’s connections.

“With three major four star wins and a host of other international achievements including an Olympic silver medal, Headley Britannia achieved unparalleled success for Australia and her achievements will long be remembered.

“The partnership and the success that Lucinda and Brit shared has been an inspiration to many young eventers and Brit’s passing will be felt by many in the sport,” Dr Vale said.


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