The 2011 Hickstead Derby winner Promised Land has been put to sleep, at the age of 28.
Promised Land had an excellent record in the Derby, finishing second with Tina Fletcher in 2010 before going on to win the following year. He wasn't the easiest of rides so it shows what a great partnership they had to produce two clear rounds round the tricky Derby course. "He’s unbelievably brave. There’s nothing he won’t jump – he’d clear a wall of fire if I asked him to,” said Tina after her win.
The gelding has spent the past seven years with Jess Paramor, having success in showjumping - including winning their Pony Club Area Championship and qualifying for the National Championships two years running. Jess even rode 'Murphy' to her school prom. "He was so loved by us, and adored by so many other people that had the pleasure of knowing him. He was a big friendly giant who followed you about like a dog and always gave you a whicker when we got to the stables. I have so many memories from him that make me smile," Jess said.
Watch Tina and Promised Land's brilliant Derby round here.