Meyer Says Goodbye to Snip
It's a sad day, with the news that Joe Meyer's (NZL) spunky little flea-bitten grey eventer Snip has died. News of his death, which was announced on FaceBook, brought an outpouring of tributes from people the world over. Snip, ridden and owned by New Zealand rider Joe Meyer was retired at the 2013 Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event held at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY.
Photo: StockImageServices.com "His illness came on very quickly and he did not suffer," said Ruthie Harbison. "There is no way to put into words how special this horse was. He gave 100% of himself every day of his 22 years. From the Olympics to being a lead pony he gave so much happiness to so many people. A once in a lifetime horse he will always be a true champion. We will all miss you so very very much Snippy." The horse retired from top international competition just last year, and he even won his last outing – the advanced combined test at the Ocala International. The Kiwi bred thoroughbred – by Silent Hunter (USA) – was bred by Meyer's parents John and Gay at Mamaku Stud in the Wairarapa.Snip did eight CCI4*, four of which were at Badminton and produced clear cross country rounds – and three of those also had clear showjumping. Between his first three star run in 2000 and his last in 2011, Snip has notched clear rounds in more than 20 three and four star starts on four continents. He's carried his rider to the 2006 World Equestrian Games in Aachen, where the team finished sixth and Meyer 51st individual, and the 2008 Beijing Olympics where the team was fifth and Meyer 25th. But their 11th in the 2011 Rolex is where at 19 years old; Snip won the hearts of a whole new pile of supporters. On his retirement, Meyer described Snip as "just the most fabulous horse to have around". He was honoured with a special ceremony at the Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event. Born and raised in the Wairarapa region of New Zealand, Joe Meyer is now based in Ocala, Florida, USA.