Sabin Schut-Kery is announcing, “A new chapter begins for a horse of a lifetime.”
The stallion Sanceo, the USA’s highest scoring horse at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, will compete no more, his rider stated today on social media. His performance in Japan that earned a personal best of 81.596 percent in the Grand Prix Special clinched a historic team silver medal was his last in competition. He is moving on to a breeding career.
Sanceo and Sabine Schut-Kery in Tokyo.
Explaining the choice to retire the stallion, Sabine said, “Since our wonderful Sanceo was just three years old, he has given everything he can to all that is asked of him; always inspiring us and always giving 100 percent to anything put in his way….and it’s because of this, we have made the decision to retire him from competitive sport.
“We have learned so much together and he has always been there for me, and I keep this in my heart as we make this difficult but also exciting decision to let him finish his performance career on a high, with happiness, memories, and while he is in good health.
“I will always cherish the unbreakable bond that led us to achieving our goals, through to his
big finale in Tokyo. Sanceo will continue to be adored in this next chapter of his life with his owners, Alice Womble-Heitmann and Dr. Mike Heitmann on their breathtaking ranch in Hempstead, Texas, where they have welcomed his return home.
Sabine and Sanceo had a big victory in Wellington in 2021 prior to the Olympics. (Photo © 2021 by Nancy Jaffer)
“Walking into the barn every day without his cheerful face will take a little getting used to, but I know in my heart this is the best decision for him and what we owe him. In these past three months together, we have just enjoyed each other’s company, as I reflected on the journey that we have been on and how special this horse has been to me and my life.
“His kindness and intelligence has still shone through each day; still fascinating me and inspiring me. We had such a strong partnership and together with his perfectionist mind and his incredible talent, we have made memories that will last a lifetime.
Sanceo competing in the freestyle in Tokyo.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank his wonderful owners, Alice and Mike, as I was so fortunate to have shared Sanceo’s journey with them.
They have always made me feel like Sanceo was also my horse, going as far as to say that I could keep him with me here in California.
“But a retirement with them, on their beautiful 1,000-acre ranch just feels right for our one in a million. They have such love for the sport, but Sanceo’s happiness has always come first and I’m so grateful for their belief in us and their friendship through these wonderful years.
“His legacy will continue through his breeding duties, as he spends this next chapter of his life on the ranch; a scene so special and fitting for our beautiful boy. He will always have a very special place in my heart and I look forward to many more visits with him.
“Our journey has been a team effort so I take pride in dedication another post in the future to the amazing team behind us.”