2012 LONDON OLYMPIC GAMES by Erin Gilmore
The Styles and Stories of the
U.S. Olympic Show Jumping Team
In early August, they arrived at the biggest athletic competition in the world with the smallest horse, the youngest rider, one bum knee, and the support of millions behind them. The members of the U.S. Olympic Show Jumping Team each wrote their own story on the way to the 2012 London Olympic Games. They were veterans, they were rookies, they were the defending champions of Olympic show jumping. This issue of H&S went to print before the Games’ conclusion, and by the time you read this you’ll know how our favorite team of horses and riders performed on the biggest international sporting stage in the world. Win or lose, we know that you joined us in cheering them on from your hometown!
Rich Fellers
THE STORY: At 54 years old, Rich Fellers has been in this game for over three decades, with 2012 marking his first Olympic Games. With Flexible, the incredible 16-year-old Irish stallion, Fellers had an absolutely epic year. Becoming the first American in 25 years to win the 2012 Rolex FEI World Cup Final (Horse&Style, June/July 2012) was just the start. They went on to win all four of their required
Olympic Observation Events in March and June, and to no one’s surprise were ranked first on the Olympic Team. Flexible has been Fellers’ ride for the duration of his career, and Fellers always speaks of the horse as a friend. THE LOOK: Nicknamed “The Silver Fox” for his bright shock of silver hair, when Fellers and Flexible compete they are outfitted nearly head to toe in gear by Antares Sellier, Fellers’ most visible sponsor. From his American flag helmet to his saddle, bridle, girth and martingale, Fellers always shows up to the ring ready, functional and stylish. That bright pinque team coat doesn’t hurt, either.
Beezie Madden
THE STORY: She’s a two time Olympic veteran, a gold and silver medalist, and a veritable institution in American show jumping. Beezie Madden rose to fame aboard the unforgettable stallions
Photo ©Cheval Photos
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