March 28, 1986 - July 3, 2003

Absalom

Absalom was born at Centaur.  He was a sweet horse with a big heart.

He amazed us all with his presence and wonderful movement right from the start.  Lynn Millar (Ian's wife) noticed him as a 2 year-old, was impressed and predicted a big future for him. 

In 1991 he cleaned up on the Ontario Trillium Dressage circuit:  He won top score and show champion at numerous shows, including the Trillium year-end championships.  His promising future in the show ring was cut short the following year.  While trying to market him as a hunter, he had a horrible accident in the warm-up ring of the Capital Classic.  Another horse crashed into him, knocking him to the ground.  His back and left hind leg were injured and he was plagued with on-and-off trouble in that area for the rest of life.  

Anyone who saw Absalom perform on his good days, noticed him.  He was an inspiring presence.  Ashley Holzer (one of Canada's top riders, winner of a bronze Olympic medal, Shirley's coach when Abs was young), loved his canter.  She said he felt as balanced as her advanced horses. 

Absalom taught many students the finer points.  He had lots to teach:  Absalom had been in training with Tom Dvorak (another of Canada's team members) for a few years.  Many will miss him. 

By Shirley