The stunning stallion retired to stud in 2003, and had since been ridden by Kate Carter who owned and bred him.

According to Carl, ‘Otto’ had been suffering with laminitis off and on for a few years, and it was “getting to the uncomfortable stage” so the hard decision was made to have him euthanised.

Carl and Otto enjoyed a very successful career together, winning 12 out of 17 international classes.

“He was the undisputed king of the small tour level,” said Carl. “He didn’t make it to top flight grand prix, but he was extremely beautiful and had such presence that he had a big following.”

written by nikki phelan