One of the greats of modern eventing, La Biosthetique Sam has died at the age of 26 after a happy retirement. Enjoy a photo gallery of this great combination.
The Olympic and World Gold Medallist won his first individual Gold Medal at the World Equestrian Games in Kentucky before winning many more gold medals, with the rider Michael Jung who created one of the all time equestrian partnerships…
‘I lost my best friend Michi told Horse & Hound.”We reached every milestone side by side, and for years I found daily happiness in seeing you grazing in the field. Thank you for 20 years together. You will be deeply missed by all of us. Rest in peace my friend.”
Sam showing his characteristic crossed legs, for good luck?. When we asked Michael what he thought about Sam’s habit he replied: “I don’t know, I can’t see it happening…”
10 facts you didn’t know about Sam
1. His dam, Halla was named after Hans Günter Winkler’s legendary mare.
2. His breeder, Günter Seitter chose his sire, Stan the Man after seeing the stallion in Marbach .
3. Sam was presented to the licensing commission in Marbach, they dismissed him as “mediocre with a big head”.
4. He was sold at auction for 8000 Euro, the Kreuter family were the only bidders.
5. Michael Jung and Sam won at their first event together and qualified for the 2005 Bundeschampionat where they finished in fifth place.
6. Sam’s first and only refusal happened in the 2006 Bundeschampionat.
7. Sam won at his first start at Four Star level, Luhmühlen 2009.
8. Mary King, William Fox-Pitt and Oliver Townend tried to purchase Sam before the 2010 WEG.
9. After his WEG success the Kreuter family advertised Sam for 2 Million Euro.
10. Sam was co-owned by the Jung family, family friend Erich Single and the DOKR (German Olympic Committee).