Dutch dressage rider Joyce Lenaerts had to say goodbye to her international small tour horse Euro. He was put to sleep on 4 March 2026.
Euro was a 17-year old Dutch warmblood by Voice out of Usha Bo (by Briar x Doruto). He was bred by Adri de Bruijn.
Joyce Lenaerts
The bay gelding was put in training with Joyce Lenaerts at stable De Beukenvallei in Leende, The Netherlands, and the breeder and rider shared a co-ownership on the horse for the rest of his liufe.
He was first competed internationally by assistant rider, Spaniard Jose Manuel Vicente Guil, who rode him in the 6-year old tests at the 2015 CDI Barcelona, followed by the CDI Pompadour.
Joyce then took over the reins and rode him in the young horse classes at the 2915 CDI Biarritz and Lier. In 2016 she moved him up to small tour level, winning in Biarritz. He stayed at small tour level through 2017 and then did not internationals in 2018. He resurfaced at medium tour level at the 2019 CDI Deauville and co,ntinued to do a few medium tour level shows in Le Mans, but in 2024 dropped back down to small tour level for more showing in Aachen, Troisdorf, Lier and Deauville.
Untimely Passing
Unfortunately Euro's life was cut short and he was euthanized on 4 March 2026.
"In complete disbelief and with immense pain in our hearts, we had to say goodbye to our beloved Euro," Joyce explained. "It is impossible to describe… He was so fit, so full of life, and we still had so many beautiful plans and dreams ahead of us. My deepest gratitude also goes to the incredible team of DAP de Meijerij, who did absolutely everything possible and gave Euro the very best care."
Joyce continued, "we are incredibly grateful for the amazing years and unforgettable moments we were able to share together. From the moment he was started under saddle all the way to Grand Prix, travelling across Europe and creating memories that will stay with us forever."
Photo © Astrid Appels
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Scores: 2015 CDI Barcelona