It indeed seems fitting that, as we head into the week of the FEI European Eventing Championships for Young Riders and Juniors at Hartpury, we pay tribute to one of the most successful, and certainly adorable, medal-winning horses to have competed at Junior European Championships in recent years
“Five years ago today this boy gave me one of the most special days of my career, so it seems fitting to release this post now ….” said Bubby Upton on her social media as she announced the retirement of Eros DHI
Bubby and Eros DHI, a 15.2h Dutch bred gelding by Up To Date, were part of the British team at two Junior European Championships, earning team bronze at Montelibretti in 2016 and taking both individual gold and team silver at Millstreet in 2017
In 2018 the reigning European Junior Champions started their season on a high, taking the CIC2* at Belton International and following that win, Bubby talked us through her cross country ride on the very special Eros DHI – watch that video and hear Bubby’s thoughts here
Eros competed most recently in June 2022 at Little Downham, finishing fourth in the Advanced, but now it is time for Eros to hang up his competition boots, says Bubby
“From the bottom of my heart I simply cannot thank this horse enough for everything he has done for me and taught me. It totally breaks my heart having to write this when I know how much more there was left for us to give and experience together, but sadly for us both his body can’t stand up to it anymore.
As sad as the situation makes me feel, I am eternally grateful for the unforgettable memories and experiences we were able to make together. I have been one lucky girl having him as my wing man for all these years and he will always hold a truly special place in my heart. So, thank you for everything Prince Ero - enjoy your retirement my precious boy”
Bubby and Eros DHI on their way to becoming Junior European Champions at Millstreet 2017
