Main image: Clayton Fredericks and Ben Along Time on their way to team silver at the Beijing Olympic Games in 2008. Image by Split Seconds/Alamy Stock Photo.
Clayton Fredericks’ Olympic silver medal winning partner, Ben Along Time, passed away last week at the age of 29.
Competing at FEI level together for a decade, Clayton and ‘Ben’ represented Australia on the international stage on many occasions. In 2006 they were the individual silver medal winners at the World Equestrian Games in Aachen, Germany, and then two years later they were part of the silver medal winning team at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, where they finished in the top ten individually.
Paying tribute to this special horse, Clayton said: “There are no words to describe what he meant to me and the people who were lucky enough to be part of his life for the last 29 years. I started riding Ben as a four-year-old and together we travelled the World. Although demanding in nature, he was a true friend and partner.
“Ben was a strong-willed horse with a distinct self-opinion, which fuelled his remarkable career. Whenever I was asked what made him so special, it was his ability to perform at his best at the biggest competitions. He seemed to know when it mattered, and I could always count on him. He was the horse that made me believe as a rider I could match it with the best in the world.”
Clayton Fredericks and Ben Along Time at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. Image by Yusuke Nakanishi/AFLO SPORT.
Besides their silver medal winning performances at Aachen and Beijing, the pair had several wins at the elite end of the sport.
“[Ben] gave me my first big win at Malmö [Sweden] at the World Cup Final in 2005 and together we won Chatsworth [twice], Saumur, and Lexington [CCI4*, now CCI5*L].” The pair also won the World Cup Final a second time in Deauville, France in 2008 following the Olympics.
Stepping down from elite level eventing in 2012, Ben went on to enjoy semi-retirement with his owners in Hong Kong before spending his later years reunited with Clayton in the USA.
“Upon retiring from eventing, Ben returned to Bea’s River in Hong Kong to be spoilt by his owners, Edwin and Peta McAuley and had a great time doing some dressage and hacking. When it was time to step down again, Edwin and Peta amazingly sent him to me in Florida to retire and I am forever grateful that he able to live out his years in Ocala enjoying his retirement.”
Clayton Fredericks and Ben Along Time competing at CHIO Aachen in 2007. Image by KOSECKI Sport Digital.
“Ben’s story wouldn’t be complete without thanking all the people who played a part in his life,” continued Clayton. “To Edwin and Peta, the most amazing owners for their support and love for Ben always. To all the grooms and working students who looked after Ben with such love and care. And a special thanks Rachel, Jack and Larry our neighbours in Ocala who loved and cared for Ben and provided the most beautiful field for Ben to live out his years with his best friend, Cash.”
“Ben Along Time will be remembered not only for his impressive achievements and resilience but also as a cherished friend. His legacy in the equestrian community and in our hearts will endure, as we continue to be inspired by his spirit and the profound impact he made.”
Equestrian Life’s thoughts are with Clayton Fredericks and all those connected with this special horse over the course of his incredible life. Rest in peace, Ben Along Time.
