News

Megan Jones retires her legendary Jester

Nov 22, 2012

World-class event rider Megan Jones is retiring the horse she rode to Olympic silver medal glory in Beijing, Kirby Park Irish Jester, at this year’s Australian International 3 Day Event.

Jones first won on Jester in 2005 at the Melbourne International 3 Day Event– an event the duo won again in 2008. Jester also helped Jones to win a team bronze at the 2006 World Equestrian Games in Aachen and finished the 2008 season as the world’s best eventing horse, ranked number one by the international equestrian organisation, FEI.

His withdrawal from the event has been an emotional decision for Jones who will give children the opportunity to meet Jester up close in Adelaide this Saturday 24 November at the AI3DE Cross Country Day. Kirby Park Irish Jester will officially retire in the main arena of the event this Sunday, once show jumping has been completed.

“Jester has a passion for competition like no other horse I have ever ridden and the partnership I have with him and still have, is one that I will cherish forever,” Jones says.

“Our family bred Jester in 1993 and because I have trained and ridden Jester from the very start it makes for a partnership like no other. I will miss every aspect of competing him at top level as I trust him with everything I have.

“He will enjoy light work and plenty of beach rides as this is his most favourite place in the world besides galloping on a cross country course and jumping fences. “Every horse I ride will be measured against Jester – they all have a lot to live up to.”

Source: Equestrian Australia