You Are My Living Legend: Showjumping Mare Suma's Zorro Retires at 20

A wave of nostalgia washed over the equestrian community as Suma's Zorro, the beloved showjumping mare, officially announced retirement at the ripe age of 20. The chestnut mare, under the expert reins of Sameh El Dahan, has been a hallmark of dedication, talent, and sheer grit - carving out a legacy in the annals of showjumping history.

Tribute to the Triumphs of Suma's Zorro

Bred at the famed Suma Stud in Ireland, Suma's Zorro was bought as a foal by Joanne Sloan-Allen and Sycamore Stables. In a turn that seems like destiny, Sameh El Dahan began riding her when she was just starting to age into her performance prime at a mere seven years old. The powerhouse duo cultivated a successful rapport rooted in unyielding trust and respect for one another, earning accolades and admiration worldwide.

One of Suma's Zorro's crowning moments was without a doubt her seismic win at the 2018 $1 million CP International presented by Rolex at Spruce Meadows. This-under-the-radar entry into the competition was proposed by Joanne Sloan-Allen, and it transpired to be a prophecy of victory. The bold play perfectly showcased horsepower, strategy, and a dash of serendipity joining forces to make equestrian history.

Sameh El Dahan: A Rider in Awe of His Mare

In equestrian sports, the rider-horse relationship is theater, and the partnership between Sameh El Dahan and Suma’s Zorro was a Shakespearean epic. In a poignant tribute to his partner-in-quests, Sameh paid homage to the mare with words that underscored the deep bond they shared, characterizing her as "my living legend".

Suma's Zorro: An Equestrian Alien in All the Right Ways

For casual observers and pundits alike, it's hard to understate the impact Suma's Zorro made in her remarkable career. This special mare has indeed been a living legend, racking up illustrious victories and captivating her fans with awe-inspiring performances. She has defied age and skeptics, performing feats in the arena that put horses half her age to shame.

The Retirement of Suma's Zorro: The End of an Era

The announcement of Suma’s Zorro’s retirement signals the end of an eventful chapter in the realm of showjumping. What started as an inspiring journey of a talented young foal has culminated in a showjumping careers for the history books. The retirement, whilst heavy on hearts, also bears a reminder to cherish and pay tribute to our equine partners and their tireless efforts to push through barriers.

As this hearty mare prepares to canter into the sunset of her career, she leaves behind a stellar compilation of her deeds as inspiration for generations. Sameh El Dahan's endearing sentiment, "You are my living legend," encapsulates the unity, friendship, and reverence that equestrians worldwide aspire to share with their partners.

Reference: Horse & Hound