Chuck and Joanne Smith's 18-year old Westfalian mare Rocher has been retired from the competition. The black Rolls Royce x Fruhlingsstern offspring, bred by Mr Vekens in Germany and initially trained to Grand Prix by German Nadine Maiwurm, was campaigned at international Grand Prix level by George Williams.
“Rocher took a dream and made it a reality,” states Chuck “she took us all over the world and filled us with pride. She has incredible character and inspired her fans wherever she showed.”
Rocher came to the United States in 2000 to be ridden by George Williams for the Smith family and Gypsy Woods Farm. Her career was highlighted with a 5th place finish in the 2003 World Cup Freestyle Championships in Goteborg, Sweden. In the same year she was named U.S. Dressage Federation Grand Prix Horse and Grand Prix Freestyle Horse of the Year as well as Chronicle of the Horse Dressage Horse of the Year.
Gypsy Woods Farm also announced that the farm will no longer be engaging in international dressage pursuits. With this change, the farm has also released George Williams to continue his successful career elsewhere.
"With the recent announcement of Rocher’s retirement, which I fully endorse; I would like to take this opportunity to thank Chuck and Joann Smith for the privilege of riding and training such a wonderful horse," George Williams wrote. "The thrill of competing a horse of her quality, talent and generous spirit is indescribable. The Smith’s backing and belief in the two of us was unsurpassed. My partnership with Rocher allowed me to pursue a dream of competing internationally and representing our country."
Read more on Rocher's retirement at Dressagedaily.com
Source: Dressagedaily.com
Related Links
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Rocher Withdraw From 2004 American Olympic Selection Process
George Williams and Rocher Claim a USET Position at 2003 World Cup Finals
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