Kleenex Alert: Dirk Demeersman Pens Powerful Tribute to the Late Clinton

Dirk Demeersman of Belgium and Clinton were an incredible partnership in the early 2000s, and the fiery, blazing white stallion stole the hearts of so many who witnessed his ability and raw force in those years.

Dirk wept openly when he retired him several years ago, and no doubt felt the loss all over again this past week when the stallion was laid to rest by his longtime owner, Henk Nilhof at his retirement home in The Netherlands.

“Clinton, last week I knew this was our farewell. A very sad day but on the other hand, I am very glad that the Nijhof family gave us the chance to say goodbye and we had a moment for us,” said Dirk via his Facebook page. “I’m happy and proud that I could ever ride a horse like that! We knew each other like no other – I learned a great from you, and I learned that there must be mutual respect between rider and horse. You’ll always have a special place in my heart. Rest in peace my friend, my champ.”

Clinton served double duty for most of his adult life as both a world-class show jumper and a quality breeding stallion – a feat not every stallion is suitable to manage. But Dirk always managed to keep the lid on the big boisterous gray, earning multiple grand prix wins in their career and taking fourth individually at the 2004 Summer Olympic Games in Athens. He retired sound and happy in 2006.

Clinton was a licensed stallion for multiple warmblood registries, including BWP, KWPN, Holsteiner, Zangersheide, Oldenburg, and Selle Francais. He is the sire to some of the best horses in the world, including Beezie Madden’s Coral Reef Via Volo and Marco Kutscher’s Cornet Obolensky.

We are truly sorry to all of Clinton’s connections for the loss of their stallion and fiery friend. He will be missed by us all.