Nora Batchelder Says Goodbye to Career Starting Horse Weide

Fri, 09/25/2020 - 21:21
U.S.A.
Nora Batchelder and Weide in 2005 :: Photo © Hoof Pix

U.S. Grand Prix rider Nora Batchelder said goodbye to her career starting dressage horse, Weide. The mare passed away on 22 September 2020 at age 27. 

Weide was by Weltmeyer x Werther. 

Vera's father Verne Batchelder bought Weide at the 1997 Hanoverian Auction in Verden when Vera was 12 years old. The chestnut mare took Vera from first level to Grand Prix. 

Batchelder, who runs River House Hanoverians, originally in New Hampshire and now in Ocala, Florida, earned her USDF Gold, Silver, and Bronze Rider Medals on Weide and the mare was named USDF Horse of the Year Jr/YR Grand Prix Champion in 2005."

Vera rode her first CDI  with Weide in 2003.

"Weide was absolutely beautiful - she even earned a perfect “10” on her head in her Studbook Inspection," said Vera. "Weide and I learned a lot together and then she went on to share her knowledge with many, many others. She helped several students earn their USDF Rider Medals and helped another earn her “A” Pony Club dressage rating. Weide taught numerous people how to count their tempi changes and gave many their first feel of piaffe. She was a spicy lady to the end and bucked off the last working student that ever had a lunge lesson on her at age 25 - a fact, of which, I think she was very proud!  At her core, she was a sweetheart and nickered for her treats until the very end. She will be missed."

Photo © Hoof Pix

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