In Memory

Tigger Too
1991-2008

On May 11, 2008, 17-year-old Tigger Too died on course after suffering an acute abdominal aortic rupture on the cross-country phase of the Jersey Fresh CCI *** with Lauren Kieffer in the irons. Lauren was uninjured in the fall.

Tigger was a 16.2 hand chestnut Thoroughbred gelding, foaled in 1991. Originally a racehorse, Tigger initially partnered with David to become a success in the event world.

David had a fabulous career with Tigger Too, competing in the top levels of the sport for many years. “He was always a careful horse, and fantastic on cross-country.” David and Tigger’s record includes the Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event, at both the three star and four star level, where they finished 17th in 2004; a 15th place finish at Burghley in 2003; 3rd place at the Fair Hill International three star and 4th place at the 2001 Foxhall Three Day Event.

Since retiring from upper level competition, Tigger was used as a demo horse and teacher to those students fortunate enough to ride such a well-schooled master of the sport. “He was a sensitive horse, who makes one very aware of how to ride correctly. He didn't cover up any rider error, and always did what was asked - right or wrong!”

Working student, Lauren Kieffer, was leasing Tigger at the time of his death. According to David, “Tigger had a wonderful relationship with Lauren – this (Jersey Fresh) was going to be his retirement event and then I planned to just enjoy him and have him as my personal horse.”

Tigger helped Lauren achieve major milestones in her career…he took her to her first advanced and then on to her first three-star. Together, in 2007, they won the Markham Trophy at the Jersey Fresh CCI***. The Markham Trophy, presented by The United States Equestrian Team Foundation, is awarded to the highest placed rider under the age of 21 at the USEF CCI*** Spring Championship. Lauren and Tigger finished 25th overall.

Other recent accomplishments include:
2007 Jersey Fresh Three-day Event CCI***, (Lauren Kieffer) 25th Place
2007 MCTA H.T. CIC*** (Lauren Kieffer) 6th Place
2006 Morven Park Three-Day, Advanced, (Lauren Kieffer) 11th Place
2006 Poplar Place, CIC*** (Lauren Kieffer) 14th Place
2006 Millbrook H.T., Advanced (Lauren Kieffer) 6th Place

Prior to his death, Tigger had three colic surgeries and had much of his colon removed in the most recent one. “He’s had a hard life with several colic surgeries, and I was always afraid to walk into his stall one day and find him colicking again. So I guess this is the silver lining on the dark cloud,” David added.

Tigger was an amazing horse…he’ll be greatly missed.