It is with deep sadness that Boyd Martin has announced the passing of Barney Rubble, the talented 11-year-old gelding (Cador 5 x Glockenklang), who collapsed suddenly while schooling cross-country at his home farm in Pennsylvania this past Sunday. Despite immediate efforts, nothing could be done to save him.
“Barney was without question one of my all-time favorite horses,” said Boyd via a social media tribute “He was high-energy, galloped like the wind, and had endless scope in his jump. He could be a handful with his enthusiastic character, but I absolutely loved riding and producing him. Every day with him was a puzzle worth solving, and I was certain he was going to blossom into a 5* horse. To lose him to such a freak incident is absolutely heartbreaking.”
An autopsy is being carried out at New Bolton Center, with an aneurysm suspected as the cause of death.
Barney Rubble was a horse of immense talent and potential. Earlier this year, he achieved a top 10 finish in the CCI4*L at Mill Spring, underlining the promise of a bright future at the highest level.
Boyd shares: “I’ll miss this horse immensely. He was such a special guy. I’m deeply grateful to the Barney Rubble Syndicate, who believed in him as much as I did and gave him the time he needed to develop. Walking past his empty stall now, I keep wishing this was just a bad dream. Rest in peace, Barney.”
Equestrian Life’s thoughts are with all those connected with this special horse.
