Paris, France – January 28, 2021 – Alexandra Paillot (FRA) has announced the retirement of her top horse Polias de Blondel. Originally, the gelding had been ridden by Ronan Lerat (FRA) who competed him at the 1,2 and three-star level before the Selle Français joined Alexandra in 2014.
Paillot and the 18-year-old chestnut Selle Français gelding (Desir du Chateau x Souviens Toi III) have been partners for the past seven years, having represented France in Nations Cups at Wellington CSIO 4*, Arezzo CSIO 3* and Lisbon CSIO 3* and competed at several five-star classes as well. Besides top placings and consistent rounds, their career together was highlighted by winning the €50,000 Longines Grand Prix of Deaville CSI 3* and the €25,400 Jump-off Challenge at Lisbon CSIO 3* in 2019.
The French rider made the following statement on her Instagram account:
“For the past seven years, Polias de Blondel has been a dream partner. Since day one, the best companion any rider could hope for. So powerful yet so gentle, he kept taking care of me as we grew together. From our first 5* experiences, to our first international GP win, and French National Senior Title, there is nothing he did not do for me!
I am incredibly grateful for him taking my dreams in our sport to the next level. So many lessons learnt as well : hard work, confidence, success, but also humility and resilience. What a privilege to have been given the chance to ride such a horse!Thank you so much to everyone who took fantastic care of him along the way!”
Sources: Alexandra Paillot / FEI – Fédération Equestre Internationale
Photos: © Jumper News / JC Markun / Longines Timing
Categories: English, Jumper News France, News
