The U.S. Equestrian Federation has announced that Endel Ots (Wellington, Florida) and Lucky Strike will not travel to compete in the 2019 Pan American Games in Lima, Peru. Lucky Strike, the 9-year-old Hanoverian gelding owned by Max Ots, sustained injuries during the team transport to Miami, from where the horses were to fly today, July 21.

Following the veterinary assessment, the decision was made that Lucky Strike should not travel on to Lima. The timeline of this turn of events makes it impossible to substitute a replacement athlete-horse combination. As a result, the U.S. Dressage Team will compete as a three-member team.

Endel Ots and Lucky Strike will not travel to Lima for the Pan American Games. Kimberly Loushin Photo

“Lucky had an unfortunate accident while in transit to the airport. It is expected he is going to make a full recovery, but we have decided that it is not in his best interest to travel to Lima at this time,” stated Endel. “Obviously, I am devastated. It was a goal of mine to compete Lucky at the Pan American Games, but my horse’s health is more important, and I know the team understands. They are a strong group, and I plan on making it to Lima later in the week to support them.”

It is expected the injuries will not have a long-term impact on Lucky Strike’s health and soundness. He remains at the vet clinic at this time.