LEXINGTON, KENTUCKY–Amy Tryon’s Rolex (Kentucky) Three-Day Event mount Le Samurai has been humanely euthanized at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute in Lexington, Kentucky. The horse stumbled or was somehow injured at the final fence on cross-country at Rolex last Saturday. The FEI Tribunal is investigating Tryon’s handling of the situation to see if abuse occurred.
On her web site today, Amy Tryon wrote, “I am heartbroken at the passing of Le Samurai. Sparky was a wonderful horse and a gallant partner who meant the world to me. His loss has left me indescribably sad. I want to join the Broussards in thanking the veterinarians who tried so hard to save him.”
The horse did cross the finish line, where he was immediately seen by the veterinary team and transferred to the nearby veterinary hospital. Descriptions of his injuries suggest major damage to the gelding’s suspensory ligament and or network of ligaments in the lower leg. No statement has been made on the exact diagnosis. One report in a newspaper said that an “elevator shoe” had been applied to his foot; this would probably be some sort of a patten bar shoe.
Statement from the Broussard Family, Owners of Le Samurai
“It is with tremendous sadness that we announce that Le Samurai has been humanely euthanized. From the outset we have been determined to give this magnificent horse the best veterinary treatment available, but only so long as the continuation of that treatment remained consistent with Sparky’s best interests. Regrettably, the veterinarians treating him have advised us that a successful outcome is not possible.
“Sparky will be greatly missed by our family, Amy Tryon and everyone who knew and loved him. We wish to express our heartfelt thanks to Dr. (Robert) Hunt and the veterinary staff at the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute for their tireless dedication to Sparky’s well-being. We also wish to thank the eventing community around the country for all the kindness and good wishes that have been extended to us and to Sparky.
–Jerome and Rebecca Broussard
An edited telecast of highlights from the event will be on NBC Sports at 5 pm (eastern time) on Sunday, May 6.
Broussard statement courtesy of USEF. Photo by Michelle C. Dunn courtesy of Rolex.
