A top show pony has died aged 25. Murrum Park Phantom has been described as the “pony of a lifetime” by owners Amanda Marfleet and her daughter Kate.
Phanty, by Rotherwood Footlights, was born in Australia.
“He was lucky enough to only have four owners his entire life,” Amanda told H&H.
“His cheeky personality shone through from the beginning, as noted to be the worst pony to break with the biggest buck. However, he proved to be the ultimate showman throughout his long career on both sides of the world, in the show ring and the dressage arena.
“His winnings would fill a book, and include all major dressage titles in Australia, beating many warmbloods on the way, up to prix st georges.
“When came back with us to the UK in September 2006, aged 16, he was selected for the British pony dressage squad within 10 days of getting off the plane, and represented Britain in 2007.”
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The pony also won Search for a Star at the Horse of the Year Show, the Hindley Cup Supreme at Ponies UK, the £1,000 superleague final at Birmingham International and the veteran supreme championship at Olympia in 2008, 2009 and 2011.
“He was the first show pony personality of the year and he also won the first veteran championship held at Royal Windsor and met the Queen,” added Mrs Marfleet.
“He had the best personality, and touched everyone who saw him.
“He was proud, feisty, kind, grumpy at times, self opinionated, sometimes tolerant of rider errors — not beyond having a front feet tantrum when Kate miscounted his flying change aids — he loved the music, the clapping and a very large audience.”
