DANIEL Coyle has withdrawn Legacy from the Longines FEI European Championships in A Coruña after winning the opening round yesterday (Wednesday).

In an interview with the media after that round, he said unless Ariel Grange’s 15-year-old mare is in medal contention he won’t go to the end of the competition. However, today, he decided he would not take the mare any further in the competition, despite being in the lead.

Speaking at the venue before today’s second round began, Ireland’s chef d’equipe Michael Blake said: “Legacy had a fantastic day yesterday and she has been one of the most amazing horses in my time; she is not finished yet, she is far from finished. She came here as reserve and even if we had used her yesterday (on the team), and even if she hadn't continued, it still would have been fantastic.

“She would have to go five rounds now as an individual and I think in the best interest of the horse now going forward, Daniel and Ariel have made the right decision. This was the right thing to do. Nothing matters only the horse, she gave a lot yesterday.”

Blake added: “She’s a legend and there are more legendary days to come, I’m sure of that.”