On the tragic evening of April 18, during the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup Final held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Chromatic BF, a beloved 13-year-old Oldenburg gelding owned by breeder KC Branscomb and Branscomb Farms LLC, collapsed and died in the stabling area. The news was announced by the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI).
Chromatic BF had finished third in the second round of jumping competition earlier that day, along with rider Jill Humphrey. Despite their impressive performance, Chromatic BF unexpectedly collapsed after completing his final jump. Immediately following this tragedy, U.S. Equestrian veterinary staff and FEI veterinarians rushed to attend to Chromatic BF’s medical needs. However, despite their best efforts to resuscitate him, it was not possible to save his life.
Earlier that evening, Chromatic BF and Humphrey had finished 12th on Wednesday but were currently in fifth place in the overall standings of the competition. As a result of this unfortunate event, they were no longer able to continue competing. Samples have already been taken from Chromatic BF in accordance with FEI veterinary regulations for postmortem analysis in line with FEI protocols.
The U.S. Equestrian Federation issued a statement expressing their deepest condolences to Jill Humphrey, KC Branscomb and Branscomb Farms LLC., groom Pepe Rodriguez as well as all of Chromatic BF’s connections for their loss during this difficult time.
The tragic loss of such a talented horse is sure to have left many hearts heavy with sadness within the equestrian community.