A Tribute To Theodore O'Connor

Click here to view our photo gallery with even more images and memories of "Teddy."

Theodore O'Connor: 1995-2008 One of eventing’s most loved and admired equines, Theodore O’Connor, was euthanized after suffering a fatal accident at his home, Stonehall Farm in The Plains, Va., May 28. He was 13. Owned by the Theodore O’Connor Syndicate and bred by P. Wynn Norman, the 14.1-hand pony surpassed expectations during his career. Karen O’Connor’s outstanding performances in 2007 included team and individual gold medals at the Pan American Games (Brazil), and third at Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event.     “For me, personally, I had a relationship with him that I’ve never really had with another horse,” O’Connor said. “His trust for me went beyond what I thought was possible. He would do anything for me because I said it was OK. He trusted me, and I trusted him.” Under O’Connor’s guidance, “Teddy” also captured the 2007 Farnam/Platform USEF Horse of the Year title, was named the USEA Horse of the Year, USEA Pony of the Year, and the Chronicle’s Overall and Eventing Horse of the Year. Capturing the underdog spirit ofcompetition, Teddy’s personality outweighed his accolades. “I’m glad that he was able to inspire so many dreams, and I hope that his legacy will lead to more ponies just like him out there,” said Norman.     His top six finishes at the 2007 and 2008 Rolex Kentucky events cemented Teddy’s status as one of the strongest contenders for the 2008 Olympics in Hong Kong. O’Connor and Teddy had been named to the U.S. eventing team short list just prior to his death.     O’Connor said, “He was much the people’s pony. If there was one chance we could’ve saved him, we would. I had to make one of the hardest decisions of my life.”

“Theodore O'Connor represented something magical for my two Pony Club daughters. Please know that somewhere in California, two sobbing little girls cleaned their stalls today and sent wishes to the angels that Teddy was in the arms of the cross-country angels in Heaven.”

Katie Margason-Moore
Santa Rosa, Calif.











 

Amy K. Dragoo Photo