France's Simon Delestre has announced the official sportive retirement of his 17-year-old Hermès Ryan (Hugo Gesmeray). Last weekend Delestre and the chestnut gelding still won a 1.50m class in Monte Carlo. "Thank you is the first thing I can say when thinking of you (Hermès Ryan, ed.). You allowed me to develop and live my sport. I can't think of a better moment to allow your official sportive retirement..." states Delestre.
Delestre and the gelding teamed up about 12 years ago and competed at the highest level for about 9 years. The combination let sound the Marseillaise many different times, winning the World cup of Verona in 2015, jumping on top in Lyon and at the CSI5* Hermes Grand Prix of Paris. Further they were victorious in St Tropez, Goteborg and Antwerp.
The gelding will remain for now at Delestre's stables, to get familiar with his new life in the fields. "We will organize a great party in your honor. To celebrate your talent and dedication," concludes Delestre.