Anabel Balkenhol's 2012 Olympic individual mount Dablino has been officially retired from sport.
Already back in October 2017, Balkenhol hinted at the end of Dablino's sport career but she kept the door ajar for one or two more select shows. However, this never happened and now the plug has been officially pulled on the horse's sport career.
The 18-year old Dablino (by De Niro x Wanderbusch II) only participated in two CDI's in 2017: Hagen and Rotterdam. He did not compete at all in 2018. As the gelding was always super sensitive in prize giving ceremonies, it has been decided not to do an official retirement ceremony for the public.
The horse made its first claim to fame under Holga Finken at the 2006 World Young Horse Championships. Dablino then became Anabel Balkenhol's career marking horse. They won the 2009 German Developing Grand Prix Horse Championships and then the chestnut brought her on the German team to the 2010 World Equestrian Games and they rode as individuals at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
Dablino has been fully retired to the field with pony companion Nussi at his side. He only gets ridden a bit once in a while to keep him supple.
Photo © Astrid Appels
Related Links
Photo Report: Balkenhol and Dablino Capture 2015 CDI Frankfurt Grand Prix Trophy
Balkenhol to Focus on Heuberger, Dablino Has Proven it All
Balkenhol and Dablino Withdraw from German Team for 2013 European Championships
Anabel Balkenhol and Dablino Find Blue in Verden at First Show Since WEG
De Niro Lookalikes Dominate 2010 CDI Fritzens and Conquer International Dressage Scene
Anabel Balkenhol's Dablino Makes Winning Come Back at 2012 CDN Aachen
Balkenhol's Dablino Wins 2009 Otto Lörke Prize
FBW Dejavu and Dablino Complete the Top Five