Ben Maher’s Olympic horse Tripple X III has been sold to Torrey Pines Stables, which is owned by Canadian showjumper Eric Lamaze.
Successful partnership
Ben posted the news on his Facebook page, stating: “I can confirm that my Olympic partner Tripple X III has been sold to Torrey Pines Stables. We wish them every success.”
The world’s number two showjumper also put up a selection of photos of him competing the 12-year-old stallion, as a tribute, and thanked his fans for all their “kind comments”.
Ben bred and produced Tripple Xhimself, and together they became one of the most successful partnerships in show jumping. As well as their gold medal at the London Olympics, the pair won the Longines King George V at Hickstead – an event that had eluded Ben until last year – and the Grand Prix at Olympia in 2013.
‘No comment’
H&C spoke to Ben who confirmed that ‘Hugo’ has already gone to Torrey Pines Stables near Toronto in Canada. However, he said he could not comment on the sale or who would now be riding the horse.
Eric Lamaze owns the stables, but is also based with Artisan Farms in Florida and Belgium, who own a number of his top horses.
Eric is best known for the great partnership he had with Hickstead, on whom he won individual gold and team silver at the 2008 Hong Kong Olympics. The 15-year-old stallion died suddenly, just after competing in the World Cup in Verona in November 2011.
Lawsuit
The sale of Tripple X comes after reports that Mike and Emma Phillips, who own Quainton Stud, are suing Ben for an alleged £700,000. The couple claim Ben made “secret profits” on horses he sold on their behalf.
They also brought out a second lawsuit against Ben, seeking the sale of Tripple X, who they invested a £250,000 share in back in 2009. The horse is now reportedly worth millions.
Ben’s counter-claim is that Quainton Stud owes him for the services he provided during their nine years working together.