Lexington, Ky.—April 27

Buck Davidson and Ballynoe Castle RM competed together at the world’s most prestigious four-star events and at Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in France and Kentucky. But for the gelding’s last trip down the Rolex Kentucky CCI**** centerline—for his last trip down any centerline since he’s officially retiring at this competition—Davidson wasn’t aboard him. Instead “Reggie’s” longtime groom Kathleen Blauth Murray did the test ride for the competition this morning.

“It was amazing,” said Murray, who also did a few training level events on the horse early this year. “It’s a little sad at the same time. But it was awesome to be able to go in there. This is the end of his career, and he’ll still be around in the barn, but it’s a little sad for sure.

“I was getting nervous going in, but as soon as I went in there, I said, ‘I just need to have fun with this.’ It was a blast,” she added.

Kathleen Blauth Murray and Ballynoe Castle RM leaving the Rolex ring. Photo by Lindsay Berreth.

When asked if Davidson was grooming for her this morning, Murray laughed.

“He’s trying,” she said. “He only shows up sometimes.”

But during their test, Davidson was for sure standing ringside to watch, with a big smile on his face.

“She was amazing,” he said. “She showed why she’s so great for me—cool head under pressure. She hadn’t ridden the test in sitting trot before, so to go in there and do that test in that atmosphere, with all that pressure, it’s like going from Little League baseball and then someone asks you to go hit a Major League fastball. The horse stepped up like has every single time. I couldn’t be prouder.”

Buck Davidson watched Reggie’s final ride. Photo by Lindsay Berreth.

In a fun coincidence, today’s test also took place on Reggie’s actual birthday. The Irish Sport Horse, owned by Cassie and Carl Segal, turns 17 today. His official retirement ceremony will take place on Sunday here at Rolex. Immediately after the ceremony, there will be a drawing for his saddle and bridle, with proceeds benefitting FlyPups. (Raffle tickets are available during Rolex at the Hagyard Pharmacy booth.)

“This horse is my life,” said Davidson. “Where would I be without him? The Segals have been family and best friends and unbelievable supporters and mentors, and Kathleen has helped bring the business to what it is today. I’m just so proud of the group that’s together because of Reggie. I can’t thank Reggie enough.”

Kathleen Blauth Murray and Reggie during their Rolex Kentucky test ride. Photo by Lindsay Berreth.