Sally Parkyn

THE eventing world was saddened to hear of the recent passing of Hendrik Wiegersma at the age of just 65.

A popular and hugely charismatic figure, Dutch-born Hendrik moved to Devon, England 45 years ago. He first made his name as a four-star event rider and a successful amateur jockey before progressing to become one of the sport’s longest-serving event organisers.

A man of many talents, Hendrik ran a busy stable manufacturing business in tandem with an eventing centre and dealing yard Together with his wife Pippa, Hendrik produced many a young horse and aspiring rider, most notable of which was Irish Olympian Austin O’Connor.

Remaining in the west of England throughout his life, Hendrik was later joined in the business by his son Jake, while his love for the sport was rekindled by the international success of his daughter Lucy.

It was enriched further when Lucy’s husband , Irish event rider Padraig McCarthy, embarked on his own international career last year.

A memorial service will be held in Hatherleigh, Devon on March 14th.