Springer began her partnership with the Irish Thoroughbred gelding (Brandenburg’s Windstar—Kelly) in 2004, and together they completed 38 of 44 international events they entered, with highlights including a U.S. Equestrian Federation National Championship and an overall second-placed finish at the Rolex Kentucky CCI5*-L in 2012. That same year, the duo was named to the U.S. Olympic Team short list and went on to finish sixth at the Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials CCI5*-L (England). They completed Burghley again in 2014.

Arthur and Springer were known for their expertise on the flat and were fan favorites in their seven appearances at Kentucky.

Allison Springer and Arthur. Lindsay Berreth Photo

In 2017, Springer announced Arthur had developed a heart arrhythmia and would retire from competition. The two performed one final dressage test in front of a packed crowd, who gave Arthur a standing ovation.

Following his last public appearance, Arthur enjoyed going on trail rides and endless hours being groomed by Springer.

“Arthur was my best friend and putting what our partnership meant to me into words would be impossible,” said Springer. “Over the past 16 years, Arthur taught me many things and took me many places. He made some of my wildest dreams possible. He always kept me on my toes, and although he was not the easiest horse at times, he taught me what a true partnership should look like. In every one of our moments together, I was always honored to be Arthur’s rider, friend and person. While I am devastated at losing him so suddenly, a piece of my heart will forever belong to him.

“Thank you to my parents and the remarkable members of the Arthur Syndicate for your unwavering support over the years,” she continued in a Facebook post. “Arthur was lucky to have a remarkable team behind him every step of the way, from his many grooms and the working students who spent hours caring for him, to his team of vets, farriers and beyond. I will never be able to express my true gratitude for all you did for him to help him feel his best for so long. I would be remiss if I did not thank the many people who cheered us on from near and far. Arthur loved nothing more than a photo op or an adoring fan, and he appreciated each and every one of you. ‘Arty’ was a party in every sense of the word, even if at times that party was one he created in his own mind. I will never stop missing him. If it were up to me, Arthur would have lived forever, but I will forever be grateful I was the person in the world he chose to love most.”