Hamburg earns a well-deserved retirement
Gabriella Reisen explains the emotional reality of retiring a beloved showjumping horse.
For many young riders, the bond with their first competitive horse is special. For Gabriella Reisen, a Grade 8 at Redhill School, it was life changing.
Her powerful 17 hands high South African Warmblood, Hamburg, didn’t just carry her over jumps; he carried her through lessons about courage, patience, and love.
According to Gabriella, she first met Hamburg when she was 12. Many doubted the pairing would work, as he was big, strong, and a lot for a young rider. Even coaches told her he might be too much, but, from the first ride, she trusted her instincts. “Sometimes you have to take those risks, because, more often than not, they lead to something better than you ever imagined.”
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She explained that their bond became unshakeable. “Hamburg is the best horse I could have ever asked for. He always gives 110%, even when things seem impossible. He’s unbelievably talented and powerful, but he also has the kindest heart.”
Gabriella said that together they tackled the biggest shows, from South African National Equestrian Schools Association (SANESA) nationals, where they earned top spots in showjumping and equitation, to her final Easter Festival with him, where they placed 2nd, 3rd, and 10th in massive classes.
Yet, in the moments of triumph, Gabriella began to sense something was wrong. “He was acting a little differently, but I just thought he was being naughty. If I had known, I never would have pushed him so hard. But that’s Hamburg, he gives me everything he has, even when he’s sore.”
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She pointed out that when the vet confirmed there was an issue, the decision was clear. “Hamburg deserved to retire while still healthy and happy. Now, he lives at Phaeton Park, where I take him for gentle walks and shower him with attention.”
She explained that this chapter has taught her more than just how to ride. “He showed me what true love really means, and what it is to give someone your all. He made me a better rider, but more importantly, a more confident person.”
Gabriella’s family and friends, especially her friend Megan De Waal, rallied around her, lending her other horses to ride and keeping her spirits up.
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Though she’s not actively looking for a new horse just yet, she knows she will ride again, and she knows Hamburg will always be part of her. “He wasn’t just a horse; he was my once-in-a-lifetime partner. He gave me enough memories to last forever. Retirement feels too soon, but you have earned it, sweet boy. Thank you for everything.”
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