Headley Britannia put down at the age of 21

Lucinda Fredericks’ eventing superstar Headley Britannia has been put down today (1 April) at the age of 21.

World’s best mare

‘Brit’ was cross-country schooling with Lucinda’s student Alex when they fell. They had been jumping a 1m oxer on flat, grassy ground when the mare crumbled upon landing.

Lucinda and Alex could tell something was wrong straight away, and a vet was called. Hattie Lawrence MRCVS, of Valley Equine Hospital in Lambourn, confirmed that the mare had fractured her left radius (forearm) bone and needed to be humanely euthanized.

“We were having so much fun today, in the beautiful sunshine, cross-country schooling,” said a statement fromLucinda.

“I was so pleased to be with her for her last moments, and to have a chance to thank her for everything she has done for me and everyone around her. She remained calm, steady and was peaceful at the end.”

One in a million

The little 16hh chestnut mare is one of the most successful event horses of all time. She won three of the major four-star events: Burghley (2006), Badminton (2007) and Kentucky (2009).

Brit was sent to Lucinda to be sold in 2002, but no one wanted a small chestnut mare, with a fungal problem in her ears that meant she couldn’t bear them to be touched. Brit stayed to be competed, and together they won their first event at Aldon. Later that year they won the three-star at Blenheim, and their path to eventing greatness was set.

“Brit was the best horse I could have ever hoped to have ridden and I owe her so much,” said Lucinda. “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.”

Future

After winning Badminton in 2007, Brit went to stud for embryo transfer. In 2008, she won a team silver medal for Australia at the Beijing Olympics, and also had two embryo transfer foals by Jaguar Mail. Shewent on to have another five embryo transfer foals.

The first two foals, Britannia’s Mail and Little Britannia, will both be continuing their mother’s legacy and are competing this weekend.

Brit was retired from top level competition in 2012, though she did enjoy a final win in 2013 in the Express Eventing competition at the CLA Game Fair.

Lucinda is said to have been ‘overwhelmed’ by messages of sympathy from eventing fans. “I can’t tell you how moved we have been with all the messages coming in from across the world, it has provided us with so much comfort at this sad time,” said the event rider. “I always knew Brit was popular but can only now appreciate what an incredible impact she has had on so many people.”

Headley Britannia, 1993-2014.