"Height doesn't measure heart." This is a saying often used in sporting circles to celebrate those who, despite their physical disadvantages, manage to achieve extraordinary things. In the horse racing world, one such individual - or rather, individual horse - comes to mind: the remarkable Cedric. This incredible equine, standing at just 15.2 hands, managed to rise above many of his more imposing peers and carve out a legendary career on the international show jumping scene. In this article, we pay homage to Cedric, who was rightfully inducted into the Show Jumping Hall of Fame, class of 2023.
The Unforgetable Partnership of Laura Kraut and Cedric
It was in the capable hands (and under the guiding legs) of rider Laura Kraut that Cedric first bounded into the international arena in 2006. Despite some quirks, many of them loveable, Cedric quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. A great deal of this success can be attributed to his magical partnership with Kraut, spanned over 11 years. Together they produced a staggering 81 clear and 45 double-clear rounds in major competitions with a prize value of $100,000 or more.
Cedric's Stellar Career Highlights
The crowning moment of this partnership came when they clinched a team gold medal for the U.S. at the 2008 Olympics Games in Hong Kong. But Cedric's illustrious career included many more high-profile appearances. He was part of the U.S. team at the 2010 FEI World Equestrian Games, as well as numerous Nations Cup appearances including Aachen, Barcelona, Dublin, La Baule, Rome, Rotterdam, St. Gallen, and Wellington.
Record-Setting Wins at LONGINES Global Champions Tour
Together, Laura and Cedric won not one, not two, but four Grand Prix at LONGINES Global Champions Tour (GCT) events. They further cemented their legacy as the first horse-and-rider combination to win back-to-back events, with formidable performances in 2010 at Chantilly, and then Valkenswaard just two weeks later. But they didn't stop there; Cedric and Kraut also celebrated wins at GCT events in Lausanne (2012) and Wiesbaden (2013).
Cedric: A Big Winner with a Big Heart
Amid all these victories, what really set Cedric apart was his winning nature. As a naturally careful and competitive horse, he drew admiration from all who witnessed his spirit. By the time he closed his career, he was one of the nation’s leading money winners, amassing over $2 million in prize money. That isn't all - he was also honored as The Chronicle of the Horse’s Show Jumping Horse of the Year in 2010. Cedric was given an emotional send-off into retirement at age 19 during a moving ceremony in Wellington in 2017.
Sustaining the Show Jumping Hall of Fame
The Show Jumping Hall of Fame is a section 501(c)3 not-for-profit charity that relies on your support. If this story touched your heart the way Cedric touched the hearts of all who saw him perform, please consider contributing towards their efforts to preserve the history of our past champions. Donations can be made at www.ShowJumpingHallofFame.net .
For the love of the sport and its champions, let's ride together!
Source: Horse Network