Australian triple Olympic gold medallist Andrew Hoy has taken on the ride of experienced four-star horse Algebra.
Australia’s Natalie Blundell produced the 17-year-old grey from one-star. The combination were based with Andrew in Leicestershire last season in a bid to try and qualify for the World Equestrian Games (WEG).
Natalie and Alegbra failed to complete Badminton or Burghley but finished 13th in the four-star at Luhmühlen (pictured). The pair were long-listed for WEG, but didn’t make the final squad.
Alegbra was due to begin a second career as schoolmaster but his owners — John Glenn and Julia McLean — have decided to “give him one more year at the top level”.
“We received a lot of interest and were overwhelmed to see how popular he was and how many people had enjoyed following his career — but we were not able to find the right home for him,” said Mr Glenn.
“As Andrew kept him in training for us during this period of time we discovered how well he and Algebra got on — and as Algebra still feels very fresh and enjoys his daily training we decided together with Andrew to give him one more year at the top level.
“We are currently working on a season plan with Andrew but would like to aim him at the CCI4* at Luhmühlen as highlight of 2015 and will then make further decisions at the end of this season.”
Andrew has described the horse as “petite with a very big heart and plenty of scope.”
“He’s had wonderful performances and he doesn’t owe anyone anything,” Andrew added.
“We will take it step-by-step and see how we get on and I am very much looking forward to spending this year with him.”
It is undecided whether he will remain with Andrew or move onto something new at the end of the season.
“My wife and I both love Algebra dearly — so he might return to our farm in Australia, who knows?” added Mr Glenn.
