Thomas Carlile riding Upsilon.

© FEI/Tony Parkes

By Equestrian Life

Tom Carlile’s top eventing stallion, Upsilon, is battling a serious illness. The grey stallion, who has won nine of 18 starts at international level, is thought to be suffering from a mutant form of equine herpes.

In a Facebook post, Carlile explains that the nightmare began last Thursday. When giving Upsilon his breakfast, the horse was found to be in a “feverish state”. He was sent to the vets immediately and every effort was put into saving him. Carlile explains that the horse has fought “like a lion” against the disease that has affected him neurologically.

Upsilon is now home and appears to be over the worst of the virus, however a long road to recovery remains. Carlile is hopefully the horse may one day jump again. “Wouldn't such a nightmare deserve a miracle? Upsilon we love you,” concludes the Facebook post.

Known as EHV-1, equine herpes affects horses differently and has two main strains – one of which is more commonly associated with neurological issues. The neurological strain is referred to as Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy.

Upsilon is a two-time Barbury Castle winner, and has also won notable events such as Blenheim Palace Horse Trials and Millstreet International Horse Trials (the latter being his last start).

Our thoughts are with Tom Carlile and his team and we wish Upsilon a speedy recovery.

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