Verdades retired

Laura Graves on Verdades at WEG 2018

© Michelle Terlato

Laura Graves’ Olympic and World Equestrian Games mount, Verdades has retired from the sport. The 18-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding was purchased by Graves as a yearling, and was trained by the American dressage star through the levels to Grand Prix. Graves and “diddy”, as he is fondly known as, together captured the hearts of many, and formed a formidable partnership.

The combination won countless championship titles over the duration of their career, and were constantly placed on the podium at dressage events around the world. The Olympic Bronze medallist duo also topped the FEI World Rankings in October, 2018, which made Graves the first ever American rider to achieve this.

Laura Graves and Verdades on their way to a new PB

© Eric Knoll

A post was shared on Laura Graves’ Facebook page about the news of Verdades retiring, which read:

It is with both a heavy heart and a grateful mind that today, I announce the retirement of my great friend, Diddy. I’ve always promised that I would do my best to listen and make the right choice for him when this time came. It became clear in recent weeks that he was not going to be able to return to his usual top form in 2020.

While nothing makes me happier than watching him play in his field and take him for hacks, it is still a very new and very sad realization for me that this journey has reached its end.

This horse not only achieved every goal we ever set, but he fulfilled dreams that I never knew I had. Not always the easiest, it was his generous heart and incredible sense of loyalty that made him one of a kind. Every time I sit in his saddle, I continue to feel honored and humble that he allowed me to be his person. We have travelled the world together, many times over and cut our teeth at some the world’s greatest competitions.

While it will not be the same loading up the trailer without him, I am very much looking forward to the next chapter of my career with a stable full of young horses.

“I would like to express a deep love and appreciation for so many people, without whom, this horse would never had made his way to the world stage. My family, especially my mom, who selected Diddy with her keen eye and supported us even when everyone said we were crazy. My soon to be husband, Curt who is always my biggest fan and never questions my need to care for our animals. Debbie McDonald who gave us time when no one else would and believed in our ability to be great. Betsy Juliano who has been by my side through the ups and downs of this rollercoaster and made so much possible for me. Emmalie Clapp my amazing groom who always cares for my horses like her own. Our talented and dedicated team of veterinarians and farriers who kept this boy in top shape for so many years. Robert Dover, Hallye Griffin, US Equestrian and the USET for giving us the opportunity to represent the USA. Lastly, the biggest thank you to Verdades, Diddy, Diddyman, Bugs, my buddy for the joy you have brought to so many.”