JN is saddened to report that Daniel Deusser’s magnificent mount First Class has died. The news was announced on Daniel’s social media. The Belgian Warmblood gelding was at the height of his career, dying at the brutally young age of 12.
First Class was owned by Stephan Conter of Stephex Stables, for whom Daniel is a rider. It is reported that the ten-year-old stallion succumbed to colic.
First Class was Daniel’s mount for the Rio Olympics in 2016, and his performance contributed to Germany’s team bronze medal. He was a podium finisher for numerous other events, including multiple legs of the Longines Global Champions Tour, FEI Nations Cups, and the IJRC Top Ten Final in Geneva.
Our most heartfelt condolences to all who knew and loved him.