The Horse Trust has said it is “heartbroken” after losing one of its favourite equine residents, Quizmaster. The former Household Division gelding, known as Quizzy, had reached the age of 32.
He started his career as a Defence Animal Centre horse where he helped train military personnel to become riding instructors. Quizzy took part in individual and group lessons on the flat as well as showjumping and cross-country, the latter of which he was particularly talented at.
When Quizzy was 19, the Household Division required a steady horse for the Household Division officers to ride on parade and Quizmaster was the “ideal” for the job. He served for a further six years as an Officer’s Charger working at many Ceremonial Parades including numerous Birthday Parades for The Queen, of which he was given the integral role of the Parade Commander’s horse, The Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, one Royal Wedding and many State Visits.
Quizmaster was said to be an “outstanding” charger throughout his time at The Household Division.
“We were honoured when in August 2015, we welcomed Quizmaster through our stable doors to start his well-deserved retirement,” said a Horse Trust spokesman. “Quizzy was an incredibly popular resident amongst staff throughout his seven years with us. He became best friends with former Household Cavalry retiree, Elizabeth and the pair were always by each other’s sides.
“Over the last couple of years Quizzy sadly began losing his sight and Elizabeth was always there to look after him and act as a guide horse for him. The relationship between Quizmaster and Elizabeth was incredibly special and with Elizabeth by his side Quizzy was able to continue enjoying his last couple of years with us. It was truly moving to see the special bond between the pair and we are keeping an extra special eye on Elizabeth as she adjusts to life without her dear friend.”
Sadly, Quizmaster developed severe colic symptoms that were a progression of an underlying disease and this proved unresponsive to treatment.
The spokesman added that the charity already missed Quizzy “incredibly” but it was their “honour” to love and care for the “truly inspirational” horse during his retirement.
