I have been following these 2 for a while, Simon Delestre and Hermes Ryan and was thrilled when they made it to the Olympics.
Unfortunately, Ryan injured himself in his stall last night.
They didn’t know what was wrong with him for a while, but sounds like they now have a diagnosis:
“It’s with deepest regret that I announce the forfeit of Hermes Ryan for the Olympic Games. Last exams have revealed a micro-fracture of the hock. An unfortunate injury that ends all my Olympic dreams, and those of Hermes Ryan’s family but our priority is his health. All team will take prior care of him so that he comes back in perfect shape for the next major events.
I’ll support my teammates of the France Team along their way through these Olympic Games.”
How heartbreaking. Could the team use an alternate? Or is it too late at this point?
He is such a cool little horse with a BIG jump!
http://s538216090.onlinehome.fr/delestre/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Ryan.jpg
http://www.worldofshowjumping.com/WoSJ-Exclusive-photo-series/Close-Up-Hermes-Ryan.html
They can replace up to 2 hours before competition starts with the first horse. So for the jumpers, there is a long time before replacement isn’t possible. First alternate will step in, but what I’m not sure of is whether or not a Team could fly another horse who was on their Olympic list in to be alternate, in case of another accident or injury. I rather think they can.
So disappointing. I am glad they found the injury and wish the horse a swift and uncomplicated recovery. Hocks suck!
That’s such a bummer! I’m glad he’ll be ok and I’m glad that they made the right choice for his health. I’m gutted for Simon because he had a real shot at a medal with the phenomenal little horse.
They do have an alternate in Rio. I did not see your post and started another thread
Simon Delestre’s horse Hermes Ryan injured himself in his stall. MRI confirmed a micro fracture at the tip of the hock. Simon Delestre is currently no. 2 in the world rankings.
Very disappointed of course, but the horse’s health comes first.
He will be replaced by Philippe Rozier and Rahotep de Toscane.
Sad and disappointing but France still has a very good team!
Such a shame! I really feel bad for Simon. Hopefully it’s not career-ending for Hermès.
His replacement isn’t too shabby tho - watch Rahotep kick out at times, in legit stallion style 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PSFXpbKlBqg
