French Olympic showjumper dies

Double Olympic medallist Hubert Bourdy has died from cancer, aged 57.

Numerous medals

The French showjumper first rode for his country in 1983 aged 26, and went on to win numerous medals.

‘Hugh’ was on the bronze-medal winning team at the 1988 Seoul Olympic Games with Morgat, and again at Barcelona in 1992 onboard Razzia du Poncel.

His 1988 Olympic partner then took him to individual bronze at the inaugural FEI World Equestrian Games (WEG) in Stockholm. The pair also helped France win team gold.

Hugh carried on competing until 2009. Following his retirement he set up a horse dealing business, which became one of the largest in Europe.

True horseman

FEI director of jumping John Roche said the news of Hugh’s death was “very sad”.

“He was a real character and a true horseman who has inspired many people,” he said. “Despite his illness, he was still present at major FEI events, including the Longines FEI World Cup Jumping Finals in Lyon in April and CSI4* Bourg en Bresse three weeks ago. His talent and sense of humour will be sadly missed.”

A minute’s silence was held at the Stade d’Ornano in Caen yesterday (25 June) before the showjumping test event for this year’s WEG.