LAST week, the show jumping world paid tribute to Daniel Coyle’s legendary ride, Legacy, as owner Ariel Grange announced her retirement at the World Equestrian Centre in Florida. Legacy represented Ireland at Olympic Games, World Championships and two European Championships, helping to catapult Coyle into the world’s top 10 riders.

Now 16, the Zangersheide mare played a vital role in cementing the relationship between Coyle and Grange, who had taken over the reins of the Lothlorien Farm string from her late mother, Susan.

Legacy came along in 2018 and won a multitude of World Cups and Grands Prix including Amsterdam, Leipzig, London. Toronto, Fort Worth and Thermal.

She jumped two clear rounds in Paris in 2024 and, last year, won the first individual class at the European Championships.

“In the Spring of 2018, Daniel and I were kids, scared of having to rebuild, grow and honour the history of Lothlorien by ourselves,” Grange said.

“It seems so long ago now, years on into the success and feats that we didn’t know we would achieve. Little did we know back then, that when we most needed it, help would come.

“The story has been told, the awards given and articles written, the ribbons are on the wall and the trophies are in the case. Legacy’s career and fame has spanned the world, but only two of us truly know the life-altering, incredible magic that is Legacy, because for Daniel and I, she changed our lives in every way.

“Although we are sad at the end of a journey, we feel like we have lived all our lives, we are so happy to give back a life that she laid on the line for us time and time again. Legacy will reign over Lothlorien with her head held high, reminding us all that greatness is achievable.

“Thank you Legacy… you have been everything and we are honoured to give you the future you deserve filled with green grass, lazy days and maybe a few babies.”

“Our Legacy,” Coyle said. “Thank you for everything, from double clear for team Ireland in the Paris Olympics to back-to-back World Cup wins in Leipzig and Amsterdam. You will live on in our hearts forever.”