Shutterfly, the great mount of Germany’s Meredith Michaels Beerbaum, has passed away at age 30. It was a good, long life with many special moments, but that doesn’t ease the pain of losing him.
His rider posted a tribute to her amazing horse, a Hanoverian by Silvio I, who triumphed in the World Cup finals three times. Here is what Meredith had to say:
“It is with a very heavy heart that I am sad to announce that we lost Shutterfly this morning. He was a unique and irreplaceable part of our lives.
I was lucky enough to spot Shutterfly as an immature and gangly talent at age six during the show in Rastede. He came to my stable a few months later. I was fortunate enough to share the next 24 years of his life with him. We just recently celebrated his 30th birthday.
The brilliant Shutterfly and Meredith Michaels Beerbaum on their way to their third World Cup finals victory in 2009. (Photo © 2009 by Nancy Jaffer)
Shutterfly aka “Petey” started as a doubtful, unsure youngster and blossomed into one of the greatest horses to ever live. He won three World Cup Finals, two Top Ten Finals, the Rolex Grand Prix of Aachen, amongst many other prestigious titles. He brought me to the top of the World Ranking list, as the only women ever, where I was able to enjoy #1 for 24 months.
Shutterfly won the Preis von Europa in Aachen against the best in the world at age 18, just before his retirement ceremony there in front of his adoring crowd.
We will miss the kind and sweet-hearted Petey, who stuck his nose in the baby carriage and softly nuzzled my daughter Brianne just days after she was born. I am sure that caress gave her the passionate love for horses she has today.
I will miss you my friend and I appreciate every moment I had with you. You were the greatest partner anyone could ever have. You will never be forgotten Petey. Rest in peace my love.”