Sarah Clark and LV Balou Jeanz at Burghley Horse Trials in 2022. Image: Michelle Telato Photography.
Vale LV Balou Jeanz
By Equestrian Life
Elite Australian eventing horse LV Balou Jeanz has sadly passed away, aged 13.
The New Zealand-bred Hanoverian gelding was a three-time five-star competitor with Sarah Clark, having completed Adelaide in 2019, and Burghley in 2022 and 2023.
While in the stable at the Nations Cup event at Montelibretti, Italy in March, Jeanz suffered an accident and sustained deep lacerations to a hind leg and tendons. As Sarah explained via social media, he was stabilised on site by the treating vets before being relocated to an equine veterinary clinic. Knowing he wouldn’t compete again, the hope was to facilitate a comfortable retirement back in Australia.
“Upon arriving at Newmarket Equine Hospital UK, his wounds had reopened and because of their positioning over a joint, it was proving exceptionally hard for surgeons to immobilise and stabilise the injury. The likelihood of wounds reopening again and again was high. Not only that but given his highly strung nature, the likelihood of him causing further damage to himself while contained was a significant risk,” explained Sarah.
“In short, after numerous agonising discussions with vets, family, mentors and dear dear friends, it was decided it was not in his best interests – mentally or physically – to subject him to painful treatment and rehabilitation likely to lead to an uncomfortable retirement at best.”
Started at FEI level by Jessica Woods in New Zealand, Jeanz had been partnered with Sarah Clark since 2017. Together Jeanz and Sarah completed 25 FEI-level events – 18 of which were at four or five-star level. They had been based in Europe since heading over for Burghley in 2022.
Sarah Clark and Jeanz competing at Melbourne International Three-Day Event. Image: EQ Life.
Bred at Little Valley Farm, Jeanz was by Balou Du Rouet out of a Colombia xx mare, Cotton Jenny xx, and owned by Sarah, in conjunction with Gill, Colin and Linda Clark.
“How do you say goodbye to someone you can’t imagine life without? How do you thank a lost best friend who made your world whole and fulfilled your life’s purpose? I cannot.
So, I simply say goodnight, my King, for in dreams we shall meet again…”
Rest in peace, LV Balou Jeanz. Equestrian Life’s thoughts are with Sarah and all those connected with this incredible horse.
Published 11 April 2024.
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